A cervicogenic headache is one which originates from structures from within the neck. During certain neck movements and sustained postures, stretching and compressive forces are placed on the joints, muscles, ligaments and nerves of the neck. Over time damage may occur to these structures. As the nerves that supply the neck also supply the areas of the head, forehead, jaw line, back of the eyes and ears, pain may be referred from these nerves at the neck to the head, therefore, causing a headache. This condition is known as a cervicogenic headache.
What are the symptoms of a cervicogenic headache?
Headaches typically present as a constant dull ache located on one side of the head, behind the eyes or along the jawline. Pain and stiffness through your neck may also develop. An increase in symptoms is common during certain movements of the neck or sustained positions, for example driving or sitting at a computer in poor posture.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy will target the causative injury at the neck with the aim to reduce the headache symptoms. Treatment may involve joint mobilisation (stretching), soft tissue massage or postural taping. Acupuncture has also proven to be effective in reducing headache symptoms.
Postural advice and a flexibility/postural/strengthening exercise programme can also be prescribed to suit your needs.
What causes tension and cervicogenic headaches?
Many common headaches are linked to the neck and upper back rather than the head itself. Tension-type headaches and cervicogenic (neck-related) headaches are often driven by muscle tightness, joint stiffness and posture, especially with long hours at a desk or on devices.
- Prolonged desk work and screen time
- Neck and upper back stiffness or muscle tension
- Stress and poor sleep
How physiotherapy helps headaches
Where a headache is coming from the neck, physiotherapy can be very effective. Our physiotherapists assess your neck and upper back, use hands-on treatment to ease stiff joints and tight muscles, and give you exercises and posture advice to reduce how often headaches occur.
How acupuncture can help
For some patients, TCM acupuncture is a helpful addition for tension headaches and neck-related pain, and it can be combined with physiotherapy as part of your plan.
What you can do at home
- Take regular breaks from screens and change position often
- Set up your desk so your screen is at eye level
- Keep up your prescribed neck and upper back exercises
See your doctor if your headaches are severe, sudden, or come with other symptoms.
Frequently asked questions about headaches
Can physiotherapy really help headaches?
Yes, when the headache is related to the neck. Treating neck stiffness and muscle tension can reduce both the frequency and intensity of these headaches.
How do I know if my headache is coming from my neck?
Neck-related headaches often start at the base of the skull, are worse with certain neck positions, and come with neck stiffness. A physiotherapist can assess this for you.
Where can I get help on the North Shore?
Dynamic Physio treats headache and neck problems at our Mairangi Bay, Long Bay and Milford clinics.