While cervical disc pathology can unquestionably produce radiculopathy, many patients presenting with arm pain, paresthesia or perceived weakness do not exhibit the clinical behavior of true nerve-root compromise. In these cases, failure to differentiate the primary pain generator may lead to unnecessary spinal injections, nerve ablation procedures or surgical consultation despite limited likelihood of benefit.
Prevalence of Cervicogenic Headache
Headache is a common problem affecting 16 percent of the population at any given time. What percentage of headaches are of cervicogenic origin?
General Population -- 2.5%
Headache Sufferers (=> 5 days/mo) -- 17.8%
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Nilsson N. The prevalence of cervicogenic headache in a random population sample of 20-59 year olds. Spine 1995;20:1884-1888.