Headaches Arising from the Neck
Some headaches arise from the joints and muscles of the neck.
These are often described as neck-related or cervicogenic headaches. Charlie assesses and treats this type of headache by looking at the relationship between your headache symptoms, neck movement and muscular tension
Understanding Neck-Related Headaches
Some headaches are linked to the joints and muscles of the neck.
Cervicogenic headaches arise from structures in the neck and can be associated with neck pain, stiffness or restricted movement.
You may notice that the headache is linked with particular neck movements or positions, or that neck symptoms and headache symptoms appear at the same time.
What can a cervicogenic headache feel like?
The pattern can vary, but symptoms may include:
• Headache alongside neck pain or stiffness
• Pain that appears to begin around the neck or base of the skull
• Symptoms associated with particular neck movements
• Reduced or uncomfortable neck movement
• Muscular tension around the neck and upper shoulders
Charlie assesses the relationship between your headache symptoms and how your neck is functioning.
Assessment and Treatment
Charlie will ask about the pattern of your headaches, your neck symptoms and your wider health history.
He will assess your neck movement and the joints and muscles of the neck and upper back, using neurological or other physical testing where needed.
For headaches arising from the neck, treatment can include:
• Joint manipulation or mobilisation
• Soft tissue treatment
• Dry needling
• Neck mobility exercises
• Strengthening exercises
• Advice around movement and activity
Treatment focuses on improving the neck factors contributing to the headache and giving you practical ways to manage movement between appointments.
What about migraine?
Migraine and cervicogenic headache are different conditions.
Chiropractic care may have a role in migraine prevention for some people. This page focuses specifically on the assessment and treatment of headaches arising from the neck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes.
Some headaches arise from the joints and muscles of the neck and are known as cervicogenic or neck-related headaches.
Charlie assesses the relationship between your neck symptoms and headache pattern to determine whether the neck is contributing.
What is a cervicogenic headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a headache arising from the neck.
It can occur alongside neck stiffness, restricted movement or discomfort and may change with particular neck movements or positions.
Can chiropractic treatment help headaches arising from the neck?
Charlie treats cervicogenic headaches by addressing the neck and musculoskeletal factors contributing to the symptoms.
Treatment can combine hands-on care with exercises and advice designed to improve neck movement and function.
Are neck-related headaches the same as migraine?
No.
Migraine and cervicogenic headache are different conditions, although some symptoms can overlap. This page focuses on headaches arising from the neck.
Charlie’s Approach
With neck-related headaches, Charlie looks at the connection between the headache and how your neck is functioning.
He combines careful assessment with hands-on treatment and exercise to address the musculoskeletal factors contributing to your symptoms.
About Charlie
Charlie Fry is a Bath-born chiropractor registered with the General Chiropractic Council and a member of the British Chiropractic Association.
His approach is evidence-based, personalised and focused on helping you move with greater confidence. Read more about Charlie on our About page.
Appointments and fees
All new patients start with an Initial Consultation and Treatment appointment.
Initial Consultation and Treatment: 60 minutes, £80.
Follow-up Treatment: 30 minutes, £50.
