Can Neck Problems Cause Headaches?

If you suffer from recurring headaches, the source of the problem may not always be in your head.

Many people are surprised to learn that certain headaches can originate from structures in the neck. These are known as cervicogenic headaches and occur when joints, muscles, ligaments or nerves in the neck refer pain into the head.

What Is A Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a headache that originates from the neck but is felt in the head. The pain is often experienced at the base of the skull, behind the eyes, in the temples, or on one side of the head.

Common symptoms may include:

• Pain that starts in the neck and spreads into the head
• Stiffness or reduced movement in the neck
• Headaches that worsen after prolonged desk work
• Pain triggered by certain neck movements
• Tenderness in the muscles at the base of the skull
• Pain that may spread behind the eye

How Can The Neck Cause Headaches?

The upper neck contains joints, muscles and nerves that share connections with pain-processing areas in the brainstem.

When these structures become irritated due to poor posture, muscle tension, previous injuries or joint dysfunction, pain signals can be interpreted as a headache.

Common contributing factors include:

• Prolonged computer use
• Poor posture
• Excessive cellphone use
• Previous whiplash injuries
• Muscle tension and trigger points
• Stress-related muscle tightness
• Lack of movement throughout the day

Are All Headaches Caused By The Neck?

No.

Headaches can have many causes including migraines, tension headaches, sinus conditions, infections, medication-related headaches and other medical conditions.

A thorough assessment is important to determine whether musculoskeletal factors may be contributing to your symptoms.

What About Migraines?

Migraines are complex neurological conditions. However, many migraine sufferers also experience neck pain and muscle tension.

In some individuals, neck dysfunction may contribute to the frequency or severity of migraine episodes.

How Are Neck-Related Headaches Assessed?

At My Chiro Doc in Pretoria, Dr Marlo Swanepoel performs a comprehensive assessment that may include:

• Postural evaluation
• Neck movement assessment
• Joint mobility testing
• Muscle examination
• Neurological screening
• Identification of potential headache triggers

Where necessary, patients may be referred for further medical investigation to ensure appropriate care.

Treatment For Neck-Related Headaches

Management depends on the findings of the assessment and may include:

• Chiropractic care
• Soft tissue therapy
• Rehabilitation exercises
• Postural advice
• Ergonomic recommendations
• Lifestyle modifications

The goal is to improve movement, reduce strain on the neck and help patients better manage contributing factors.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden severe headaches
• Headaches following significant trauma
• Changes in vision
• Weakness or numbness
• Difficulty speaking
• Fever or unexplained illness

Headache Assessment In Pretoria

If you are experiencing recurring headaches, migraines or neck pain, a thorough assessment may help identify contributing factors.

Dr Marlo Swanepoel provides headache assessments in Pretoria with a special interest in cervicogenic headaches, posture-related headaches and neck dysfunction.

Book an appointment with My Chiro Doc to learn more.