Do you often experience headaches that start at the base of your skull or feel like they come from your neck?
You may be dealing with a cervicogenic headache — a type of headache that originates from dysfunction in the neck rather than the head itself.
In this article, we’ll explain what cervicogenic headaches are, why they happen, and how physiotherapy can help you manage and prevent them.
What is a Cervicogenic Headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a headache caused by problems in the neck joints, muscles, or nerves.
The pain is typically referred from the neck to the head and is often felt:
- At the base of the skull
- Behind the eyes
- On one side of the head
Unlike migraines, cervicogenic headaches are usually linked to movement, posture, or sustained positions.
What Causes It?
Cervicogenic headaches are often related to mechanical issues in the neck.
Common contributing factors include:
- Prolonged sitting or poor posture (e.g. desk work, phone use)
- Muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders
- Reduced mobility in the cervical spine
- Weak deep neck stabilising muscles
- Stress and tension
- Previous neck injury (e.g. whiplash)
Over time, these factors can place increased strain on the neck, leading to referred headache pain.
Common Symptoms
You may be experiencing a cervicogenic headache if you notice:
- Pain that starts in the neck and spreads to the head
- Headache on one side only
- Stiffness or reduced neck movement
- Pain triggered by certain neck positions or movements
- Tenderness in the neck or upper shoulders
Some people also report difficulty sitting for long periods without discomfort.
Treatment Options
Managing cervicogenic headaches involves addressing the underlying cause, not just the symptoms.
Effective treatment may include:
- Postural correction and ergonomic adjustments
- Gentle mobility and stretching exercises
- Strengthening deep neck and upper back muscles
- Manual therapy to reduce stiffness
- Activity modification to reduce strain
Pain relief methods alone are often not enough without correcting the source of the problem.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy plays a key role in both relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence.
At Movement Science, we can help you:
Improve neck mobility and reduce stiffness
Strengthen deep neck and postural muscles
Reduce muscle tension and joint restriction
Identify contributing lifestyle or work factors
Develop a long-term strategy to prevent headaches
Our goal is not just to relieve your pain — but to help you move comfortably and confidently again.
When Should You Seek Help?
If your headaches:
- Keep returning
- Are linked to neck stiffness
- Affect your daily routine or work
It’s worth getting your neck assessed early.
Movement Science – North Willoughby
(02) 8540 7319
Book online: www.movementscience.com.au