Not every headache starts in your head. For some people, a stubborn headache is actually coming from the neck. It is called a cervicogenic headache, and it is one of the headache types that physiotherapy can genuinely help with.
With Brisbane's cold, wet winter meaning more hours at a desk and on screens, neck-related headaches are a common reason people seek help. Here is what a cervicogenic headache is, how it differs from other headaches, what may help, and the red flags that mean you should seek prompt medical care.
- What is a cervicogenic headache?
- How is it different from tension headache or migraine?
- Why does desk and screen time matter?
- What can help a headache that comes from the neck?
- When should you seek urgent medical care?
- When should you see a physio?
- Helping You Perform at Your Best
What is a cervicogenic headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a headache driven by the joints, muscles and nerves of the neck. Pain often starts at the base of the skull or in the neck and spreads up over one side of the head. It is frequently one-sided and may be linked with neck stiffness or certain neck positions.
Because the pain is felt in the head, it is easy to assume the problem is in the head too. In a cervicogenic headache, the neck is the source.
How is it different from tension headache or migraine?
Headaches can overlap, which is why assessment matters. As a general guide:
- Cervicogenic headache is usually one-sided, linked to the neck, and can be brought on or eased by neck movement or positions
- Tension-type headache is often felt as a band-like pressure around the head
- Migraine often comes with throbbing pain, sensitivity to light or sound, and sometimes nausea
A physio or doctor can help work out what type of headache you are dealing with, which guides what will help.
Why does desk and screen time matter?
Long stretches in the same position, especially at a desk or on a screen, can load the neck and contribute to neck-related headaches. Winter tends to mean more indoor desk time, which is why these headaches often climb at this time of year. Regular movement breaks and a comfortable setup can make a real difference.
What can help a headache that comes from the neck?
The encouraging news is that there is evidence behind physiotherapy for this. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that manual therapy in the short term and neck exercise in the longer term can be effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of cervicogenic headache. A typical approach may include:
- Hands-on (manual) therapy to the neck for short-term relief
- Specific neck and shoulder-blade exercises to build lasting control
- Advice on posture, movement breaks and desk setup
Many people improve with a plan tailored to their neck and their daily demands.
When should you seek urgent medical care?
Most headaches are not dangerous, but some warning signs need prompt medical attention. Seek urgent care if you have a sudden severe "thunderclap" headache, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, headache after a significant head injury, or a headache with weakness, numbness, slurred speech, vision changes or confusion. If a headache is new, persistent, or changing in an unusual way, see your doctor.
When should you see a physio?
If your headache seems linked to your neck, comes with neck stiffness, or is aggravated by desk work and certain positions, a physiotherapy assessment can help identify whether the neck is contributing and what may help.
Helping You Perform at Your Best
Headaches can be draining, especially when they keep interrupting work, sleep and exercise.
At Ace Sports Medicine in Upper Mount Gravatt, our physiotherapists provide personalised care for neck-related headaches across Brisbane's southside, with assessment, hands-on treatment and an exercise plan suited to you. Your first appointment includes an assessment and a starter plan.
Think your headache may be coming from your neck? Book an appointment with the Ace Sports Medicine team today.
