When Your Neck Is Trying to Tell You Something
Have you ever experienced a headache that begins at the base of your neck and gradually spreads to one side of your head? You might assume it’s a migraine or a tension headache, but the real source of the pain could be your neck. This condition, known as cervicogenic headache, is a secondary headache caused by disorders of the cervical spine and surrounding structures.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain that starts in the neck and spreads to the back of the head, forehead or around the eye.
- One-sided headache.
- Neck stiffness or reduced mobility.
- Tenderness over the neck muscles.
- Shoulder or arm pain on the same side may be present.
- Pain aggravated by sustained neck positions, such as driving or desk work.
Treatment Includes:
- Individualised physiotherapy.
- Neck mobility and strengthening exercises.
- Posture correction and ergonomic adjustments.
- Manual therapy when clinically appropriate.
- Patient education and activity modification.
- Medication when recommended by physician.
If your headaches consistently follow neck pain and stiffness, your neck may be asking for attention. Simple lifestyle changes such as taking regular movement breaks, maintaining ergonomic posture and strengthening neck muscles may help reduce this risk.
Have you ever noticed your headache starting after neck stiffness or prolonged screen time?
MBH/PS