Cervical pain that radiates (jaw, head): Explanations

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Do you have any neck pain that radiate to the jaw or the head? If so, this may be a common symptom that can be caused by a variety of issues.

In this article, we will look at the possible causes of a pain in the neck which radiates to other parts of the body. We will also give you some tips to relieve this type of pain.

Anatomy of the cervical spine

La cervical spine is made up of seven bones, called vertebrae, which are stacked on top of each other. These bones are held together by bands of tough tissue, called ligaments, which allow the spine to bend and twist.

La cervical spine also contains a number of small round discs which act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. The discs are filled with a gelatinous substance, the nucleus pulposus, which allows them to absorb shock and evenly distribute weight.

Together, the vertebrae, ligaments and discs form a strong yet flexible column that supports the head and protects the spinal cord.

La cervical spine is essential to human movement and functioning. It provides a pathway for nerves to relay messages from the brain to the rest of the body, and it also helps support the head and neck.

The vertebrae of the cervical spine are particularly small and fragile, making them more susceptible to injury. A number of conditions can cause pains and stiffness in the cervical spine, especially herniated discs (cervical hernia), cervical osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease.

Causes and symptoms of pain cervical

Neck pain is a common condition that can have a variety of causes, including:

  • Muscle contractures,
  • Arthritis,
  • La cervical spondylosis and ruptured or herniated discs are all potential causes of neck pain.

In addition, injuries to muscles and ligaments, as well as fibromyalgia, can also lead to pains at the neck. Symptoms of neck pain vary depending on the underlying cause, but can include stiffness, loss of function, and pain.

What is the link between pain cervical, jaw and head?

The link between pains of the neck, jaw and head is the concept of radiating the pain (referred or referred pain). We are talking about the radiation of the pain when the signals of pain from one area of ​​the body are transmitted to another area.

This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as muscle strain or injury, but the most common cause is pain referred cervical. When the neck muscles are tight or injured, they can transmit the pain in the jaw and in the head.

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This is why the pains are often accompanied by pains to the jaw and head. In some cases, the pain to the jaw and the head can be more intense than the pain to the neck itself.

If you feel any pains to the neck, jaw, and head, it is important to see a medical professional to determine the cause and get proper treatment.

Pain cervical that radiates (jaw, head): anatomical link between cervical, head, jaw

The human head is supported by the cervical spine, which is composed of seven vertebrae. The first two vertebrae, the atlas and the axis, allow great freedom of movement between the head and the body.

The atlas is located at base of the skull, and the axis just below. Together, these two vertebrae provide the main support for the head. The other five vertebrae are much less mobile and provide stability to the spine.

The jaw bones are also attached to the skull at the temporomandibular joint level, which sits just in front of the ear.

This joint allows for a wide range of motion, allowing us to chew, talk, and yawn. The strong muscles and ligaments that attach to the jawbone help hold it in place and provide additional support for the head.

It is this anatomical link and the proximity of these structures which can in particular explain the pain which radiates, or compensates for local pain.

Pain neck that radiates (jaw, head): possible diagnoses

The pain cervical radiation are often caused by disorders of the nerves or joints in the neck. The Arnold's neuralgia, for example, is a condition that results from compression of the nerves that supply the head and neck.

La glossopharyngeal neuralgia is another condition that can cause pains radiating cervical. It is caused by irritation of the glossopharyngeal nerve, which supplies the throat and tongue. Zygapophyseal osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the joints in the neck.

It can also cause a pain radiating down the neck, as well as stiffness and limited range of motion.

Pain neck that radiates (jaw, head): When to worry? (Warning signs)

A pain neck that radiates to the jaw or head may be a sign of a more serious condition. Headaches and pain in the jaw can be warning signs of a stroke.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

  • Facial or generalized numbness,
  • Visual Disorders,
  • speech changes,
  • Imbalance (Loss of balance),
  • Loss of consciousness or memory loss.

These symptoms may seem relatively harmless at first, but they could be a sign of a much more serious condition. Don't wait to see if the symptoms go away on their own – get medical help right away.

Pain neck that radiates (jaw, head): What to do to relieve yourself?

The first step in relieving a pain neck that radiates to the jaw or head is to identify the underlying cause. In many cases, this pain is due to muscle tension or poor posture.

To relieve muscle tension, it may help to massage the affected area or apply heat or ice. If poor posture is the cause, correcting your posture and doing regular stretching exercises can help.

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posture correctors

The posture correctors are designed to help alleviate these issues by gently pulling the shoulders back and aligning the spine. This relieves pressure on the muscles and nerves in the neck, relieving the pain and promotes better posture over time.

In addition, the posture correctors can also help improve breathing by opening up the chest and allowing more oxygen to flow to the lungs.

Therefore, posture correctors can be an effective way to relieve pains cervical and promote better general health.

acupressure mats

While there are many ways to relieve the pains cervical, the acupressure mat are an increasingly popular option. The acupressure mat are mats that contain small spikes or nodules.

When these mats are placed on the body, the spikes press against the skin and stimulate pressure points.

This stimulation can help release muscle tension and increase circulation. Additionally, acupressure mats can be used for a variety of other issues, such as headaches, pains backbones and fatigue.

For people suffering from pains, acupressure mats can provide relief when other methods have failed.

If your pain persists despite these self-management measures, you may need to see a doctor or physiotherapist for further processing. Treatment options include oral pain relievers, injections, and chiropractic care.

In severe cases, surgery may be required. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can find relief from pain cervical spine that radiates to the jaw or head.

What about natural remedies?

Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, several natural products and grandmother's remedies are used to treat neck pain, especially for their anti-inflammatory power. It is essential to consult a doctor beforehand, mainly to avoid drug interactions and side effects.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of plants and essential oils that are effective in controlling pain and inflammation. The products are available on the site Country. Use promo code LOMBAFIT15 if you wish to obtain one of the following products, or any remedy aimed at relieving your symptoms and improving your quality of life:

  • Turmeric. Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.
  • Ginger. In addition to the special flavor it brings to the kitchen and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. the gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).
  • Omega-3s. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Sciatica, being most often linked to an inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3 provided it is consumed regularly. 
  • Lemon eucalyptusEucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.
  • wintergreen. Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy. This oil extracted from the shrub bearing the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.
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Remember that these products do not replace medical treatment. Do not hesitate to consult for support adapted to your condition.

To know various solutions (medical and natural) to fight against neck pain, see the following article.

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