treatment options for cervicogenic headaches with me/cfs

I have all kinds of chronic pain cause by a combination of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, fibromialgia, and other comorbidities including mild-to-moderate ME/CFS. I've also had cervicogenic headaches since 2024, and was evaluated by a neurosurgeon a few months ago, there were no structural findings other than some loss of cervical lordosis, but he did find I have severe hypermobility in my cervical vertebrae as well as muscle contractures which may be the cause of the pain. I was told it was urgent I strengthed my neck muscles to prevent damage to my cervical spine and help relieve the pain.

Unfortunately I've been unable to do so because of ME/CFS. I did some physical therapy but the weekly exercises worsened my condition and sent my into a crash. I currently can't do any exercise without risking PEM and being bedridded for days. Even a couple of shin tucks is enought to trigger a flare up of fibromyalgia and PEM.

I'm not sure how to manage one condition without worsening the other, and I'm wondering if there's any other treatment options available.

Welcome, @bloomnights. I have added your discussions to the related discussion groups: Chronic Pain, Headaches & Migraines, Fibromyalgia and Spine Health. This was you don't have to cross-post duplicate messages in those groups and members can connect with you in one spot. 🙂

Living with multiple chronic and complex conditions can be challenging to navigate. You ask good questions about how to manage one without detriment to another. Co-conditions are not uncommon with Ehlers-Danlos. You might be interested in following these Mayo Clinic expert blogs:

- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/ehlers-danlos-syndrome/
- Chronic Pain & Symptoms Rehabilitation https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/chronic-pain-symptoms-rehabilitation/

Have you consulted with a Ehlers-Danlos specialist?

@bloomnights
I wonder if there is a more gentle way to strengthen cervical muscles? But also to speak with a psychotherapist (?), since it sounds like doctors messages are causing anxiety, which can amplify symptoms. You may also consider looking at a book by HHoward Schubiner , Unlearn Your Pain.
Focus less on body more on your emotional state and more gentle movement