Have you ever noticed that your headache starts at the base of your skull or seems to worsen after a long day at the computer? If so, your neck could be the source of your pain.
Many people assume all headaches are the same, but headaches can have many different causes. One common type that often goes unrecognised is a cervicogenic headache—a headache that originates from the structures in the neck.
What is a cervicogenic headache?
A cervicogenic headache is caused by dysfunction in the joints, muscles, or nerves of the neck. Pain is referred from the neck to the head, meaning the source of the problem isn’t actually in your head.
These headaches can develop after an injury, from poor posture, muscle tension, or prolonged positions such as working at a computer or looking down at your phone.
Signs your headache may be coming from your neck
Some common symptoms include:
- Pain that starts in the neck and travels to the back, side, or front of the head
- Headaches on one side of the head
- Neck pain or stiffness accompanying the headache
- Pain that worsens with certain neck movements or prolonged sitting
- Reduced range of motion in the neck
- Tenderness in the muscles around the neck and shoulders
While these symptoms are common in cervicogenic headaches, it’s important to remember that not all headaches originate from the neck. A thorough assessment can help determine the cause.
What causes cervicogenic headaches?
Several factors can contribute, including:
- Poor posture, especially during desk work
- Prolonged computer or device use
- Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
- Stiff joints in the upper neck
- Previous whiplash or neck injuries
- Weakness in the deep neck muscles
- Stress, which can increase muscle tension
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy aims to address the underlying cause of your headache rather than simply masking the symptoms.
After a comprehensive assessment, your physiotherapist may recommend:
Manual therapy
Hands-on techniques can help improve movement in stiff neck joints and reduce muscle tightness.
Exercise therapy
Specific exercises can strengthen the muscles that support your neck, improve posture, and reduce the likelihood of headaches returning.
Postural education
Simple changes to your workstation, sitting position, or daily habits can significantly reduce strain on your neck.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture may help reduce pain and muscle tension while stimulating the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms. For some people, it can be an effective part of a comprehensive headache management plan.
Massage therapy
Massage can relieve tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, improve circulation, and help reduce the tension that commonly contributes to headaches.
Self-management strategies
Your physiotherapist may also provide stretches, strengthening exercises, and advice on sleep position, activity modification, and stress management to help you manage symptoms between appointments.
When should you seek medical attention?
Although many headaches are related to muscle or joint problems, some require urgent medical assessment.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden, severe headache unlike any you’ve had before
- Headache following a significant head injury
- Fever, rash, or neck stiffness
- Changes in vision
- Weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
- Persistent vomiting
- A headache that is becoming progressively worse or is different from your usual headaches
Headache treatment at SPHC
If headaches are becoming a regular part of your life, don’t ignore them. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step towards effective treatment.
If your headaches are related to your neck, physiotherapy—along with treatments such as massage therapy and acupuncture—may help reduce pain, improve movement, and decrease the frequency of future headaches.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your headaches, our experienced physiotherapists can assess your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan to help you get back to feeling your best.
Book an appointment with our team today to find out whether physiotherapy could help your headaches. BOOK ONLINE or call us on 07 38691099.