Frequency of Cervicogenic Headaches symptoms among Bankers of Islamabad: A Cross-sectional Study
Cervicogenic Headache Prevalence Among Bankers
Keywords:
Bankers, Cervicogenic Headache, Ergonomics, Headache Disorders, PostureAbstract
Background: Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary headache associated with disorders of the cervical spine. Poor and sustained posture, particularly during prolonged desk work and use of electronic devices, may contribute to musculoskeletal pain, reduced cervical mobility, sleep disturbances, and fatigue. Bankers are frequently exposed to these occupational risk factors. This study aimed to determine the frequency and severity of CGH symptoms among bankers working in Islamabad.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 61 bankers aged 25–60 years working in banks in Islamabad. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected from July 2025 to January 2026 using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity and the Wiley-Blackwell Cervicogenic Headache Diagnostic Criteria Questionnaire. The questionnaire was used to assess factors associated with CGH and was not intended as a substitute for a comprehensive clinical diagnosis. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages in SPSS version 23.
Results: CGH was identified in 20 of 61 participants, indicating a prevalence of 32.7%. Among those meeting the criteria for CGH, 10% reported mild pain, 65% reported moderate pain, and 25% reported severe pain. Moderate pain was therefore the most frequently reported intensity.
Conclusion: A notable proportion of bankers reported symptoms consistent with CGH, with moderate pain being the predominant severity. These findings highlight the importance of workplace ergonomics, posture awareness, and preventive strategies to reduce occupational risk factors associated with CGH among desk-based professionals.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Khaleel Ur Rehman, Eeman Malik, Mahpara Ali
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