Headaches can be frustrating, disruptive, and difficult to understand, especially when they recur without a clear cause.
Many people assume their headaches are migraines or tension headaches, but in reality, the source of the pain may actually be coming from the neck. These are known as cervicogenic headaches, and they are more common than most people realize.
Unlike treatments that only mask symptoms, chiropractic care focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Chiropractic headache treatment helps relieve stress on the structures that contribute to cervicogenic headaches.
We will explain what cervicogenic headaches are, what causes them, and how chiropractic treatment can help. You will also learn what to expect from care, how to support recovery, and what steps you can take to find lasting relief.
What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?
Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction of the cervical spine. Unlike primary headaches such as migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are caused by mechanical issues involving the neck’s joints, muscles, or nerves.
When these structures become irritated, restricted, or inflamed, pain signals can travel along nerve pathways and be felt in the head.
The cervical spine plays a critical role in supporting the head and allowing smooth, coordinated movement. It also contains nerves that communicate directly with the head, face, and surrounding tissues.
When normal movement or alignment is disrupted, it can place stress on these nerves and surrounding structures, resulting in headache symptoms.
Because the source of the problem is in the neck, treatment that focuses on restoring proper neck function can be highly effective in addressing cervicogenic headaches.
Cervicogenic headaches are often associated with modern lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting, poor posture, and repetitive strain. They may also develop after injuries, including whiplash or sports-related trauma.
How Cervicogenic Headaches Develop and Progress Over Time
Cervicogenic headaches typically develop gradually rather than appearing suddenly. They often begin with mild neck stiffness, reduced range of motion, or occasional neck or upper shoulder discomfort. Over time, restricted joint movement, muscle tension, and poor posture can increase stress on the cervical spine.
As this stress persists, nerves and surrounding tissues may become more sensitive. This can lead to pain that starts in the neck and radiates upward into the base of the skull, the side of the head, or behind the eyes.
Many patients notice that their headaches become more frequent or intense if the underlying neck issue is not addressed.
Common Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headaches
One of the most recognizable symptoms of cervicogenic headaches is pain that begins in the neck and moves into the head. This pain often starts at the base of the skull and may travel to the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. It is typically felt on one side of the head, although it can affect both sides in some cases.
Neck stiffness and reduced range of motion are also common. Many patients notice difficulty turning their head fully or feel tightness in the neck and upper shoulders.
Another key symptom is headaches that are triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or positions. This connection between neck movement and headache pain is a strong indicator that the cervical spine is involved.
Common Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches develop when structures in the neck are dysfunctional. The cervical spine supports the head, enables smooth movement, and protects vital nerves. When joints, muscles, or connective tissues in this area become restricted or irritated, they can refer pain upward into the head.
These issues often develop gradually due to daily habits, posture, or past injuries. Understanding the most common causes can help identify why headaches occur and what needs to be addressed to support lasting relief.
Spinal Misalignment and Joint Dysfunction in the Neck
The joints in the cervical spine are designed to move smoothly and support the weight of the head. When these joints lose proper alignment or mobility, it can place stress on surrounding nerves and tissues. This dysfunction can cause irritation that radiates into the head, resulting in headache symptoms.
Restricted joint movement also affects how the neck distributes load and absorbs stress. Over time, this can lead to increased tension and inflammation, contributing to recurring headaches.
Muscle Tension, Trigger Points, and Soft Tissue Restrictions
Muscles in the neck and upper shoulders play an important role in stabilizing and moving the head. When these muscles become tight or overworked, they can develop areas of increased sensitivity known as trigger points. These trigger points can refer pain into the head, temples, or behind the eyes.
Soft tissue restrictions can also limit normal movement and increase strain on surrounding structures. This creates a cycle where muscle tension contributes to headaches, and headaches can further increase muscle tension.
Poor Posture From Sitting, Screens, and Daily Activities
Modern lifestyles often involve prolonged sitting, computer work, and frequent use of mobile devices. These positions commonly place the head forward and increase stress on the cervical spine. Over time, this added strain can affect joint function and muscle balance.
Poor posture also forces the neck muscles to work harder to support the head. This increased workload can lead to fatigue, tension, and irritation that contribute to headache development.
Injuries Such as Whiplash and Repetitive Strain
Traumatic events such as whiplash from motor vehicle accidents can disrupt the normal function of the cervical spine. Even after the initial injury heals, lingering joint restrictions, muscle tension, or scar tissue can continue to contribute to headaches.
Repetitive strain from sports, work activities, or daily movements can have a similar effect. Repeated stress on the same structures can gradually lead to dysfunction, increasing the likelihood of cervicogenic headaches over time.
Chiropractic Treatment for Headaches
Chiropractic treatment for headaches focuses on identifying and addressing dysfunction in the cervical spine that may be contributing to pain. Because cervicogenic headaches originate from the neck, improving spinal alignment, restoring joint mobility, and reducing muscle tension can help relieve the underlying source of irritation.
When joints in the neck are restricted or not moving properly, they can place stress on surrounding nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. Chiropractic care helps restore normal movement and function to these areas. This reduces strain on the cervical spine and supports the body’s natural ability to recover.
Unlike treatments that only mask symptoms, chiropractic care is designed to address the mechanical causes of cervicogenic headaches. By improving how the neck functions, patients often experience reduced headache frequency, decreased intensity, and improved overall comfort.
Chiropractic Techniques Used for Cervicogenic Headache Relief
Spinal manipulation is one of the primary techniques used to treat cervicogenic headaches. These precise adjustments help restore proper motion to restricted joints in the cervical spine. Improving joint movement helps reduce stress on surrounding tissues and supports healthier function throughout the neck.
Soft tissue therapies are also commonly used. Techniques such as trigger point therapy and myofascial release help reduce muscle tension and improve tissue mobility. This can relieve pressure on sensitive areas and reduce pain patterns that contribute to headaches.
In addition to in-office treatment, chiropractors may recommend posture corrections, ergonomic changes, and exercises to support long-term improvement. These strategies help reduce ongoing strain on the cervical spine and support more lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Care for Cervicogenic Headaches
Can Chiropractic Care Fix Cervicogenic Headaches?
Chiropractic care can be highly effective for cervicogenic headaches because it addresses the underlying dysfunction in the neck. By restoring proper joint movement and reducing muscle tension, treatment helps remove the mechanical stress that contributes to headache symptoms.
Many patients experience significant improvement in headache frequency and intensity as the cervical spine begins to function more normally. The goal is not only to provide relief, but also to improve overall neck health and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
How Many Chiropractic Adjustments Are Needed?
The number of treatments needed varies depending on how long the condition has been present, the severity of dysfunction, and how the body responds to care. Some patients notice improvement relatively quickly, while others benefit from a more structured treatment plan over several weeks.
As the neck becomes more stable and functional, treatment frequency is often reduced. Your chiropractor will monitor your progress and adjust your care plan based on your individual needs.
Is the Relief From Chiropractic Treatment Permanent?
Many patients experience long-lasting relief, especially when the underlying cause of the headache is properly addressed. However, long-term results also depend on maintaining healthy posture, movement habits, and spinal function.
Ongoing strain from poor posture, repetitive stress, or lifestyle factors can contribute to recurrence if not addressed. Supporting spinal health through proper ergonomics, exercise, and periodic evaluation can help maintain results.
When Should You Seek Chiropractic Care for Headaches?
You should consider chiropractic care if your headaches are frequent, recurring, or associated with neck stiffness or discomfort. Headaches that worsen with certain neck movements or positions may also indicate involvement of the cervical spine.
Seeking care early can help prevent the condition from becoming more persistent and may improve recovery outcomes. A thorough evaluation can help determine whether the cervical spine is contributing to your headaches and what treatment approach is most appropriate.
Find Relief From Cervicogenic Headaches!
The chiropractic team at Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center adheres to the highest medical standards to provide superior chiropractic care. Our mission is to deliver unparalleled patient care in a comfortable and healing environment.
Access our contact form or call us at (201) 357-6539 to learn more about our chiropractic care services! Our offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve the areas of New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD. Also, access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic care!
