After evaluating Kayla we discussed that her findings and prognosis are favorable. Based on her findings she would be able to get back to work and living her life pain free in a short time. We addressed one of her concerns that she would be able to return to her life without taking more medication.

Upon evaluation and imaging we consider these common conditions with Kayla as well as ruling out red flags.

• Cervicogenic Headache: A cervicogenic headache is a headache that refers from neck pain and inflammation. Recent research has shown that this is a more prevalent cause of headaches. Inflammation of the joints, muscles, and ligaments of the neck can often cause a referring pain into the head, causing debilitating headaches. This condition requires that the neck inflammation be decreased with proper stretching, exercising, mobilization, and manipulation in order to address the accompanying headache.
• Sinusitis: Sinus pressure, although very common is not normal. Pressure from a sinus infection can cause severe headache symptoms. Sinus headaches can cause a dull ache or pressure like pain in the face or head, often behind the eyes, cheekbones, forehead, or bridge of the nose. This type of headache is worse during certain times of the year or with exposure to certain allergens. This type of headache can be relieved by stopping exposure to allergens or relieving sinus pressure.
• Chiari malformation: This is a rare condition in which parts of the brain stem protrude through the foramen magnum, or the bottom part of the skull. This is a genetic anomaly that affects the shape of the skull and often other genetic anomalies are often noted in these patients. This condition is often found upon soft tissue imaging when the patient complains of headaches that are not relieved with conventional methods. This is why MRI imaging is suggested if conventional treatments do not provide relief after a sufficient time frame. Surgical treatments are effective with low risk in managing these headaches if conservative treatment options are not effective.
• Brain Tumor: Headaches can be a sign of brain tumors. Although rare, tumors should be considered if headaches are not relieved after sufficient conservative and medicinal treatment. Fortunately, most brain tumors can be detected and treated effectively if headache relief is not achieved in an appropriate time frame.

Here is a short video reviewing x-ray findings and concerns with headaches