Can Neck Problems Cause Headaches? What You Should Know

Have you ever experienced a headache that seems to start around your neck or the base of your skull? Perhaps you also notice neck stiffness, tight shoulders, or discomfort when turning your head.

You might wonder: Can a problem in your neck actually cause a headache?

The answer is yes. Certain neck conditions can contribute to headaches. However, not every headache accompanied by neck pain originates in the neck. Even migraines can cause neck pain and stiffness.

Understanding the difference can help you determine what kind of care may be appropriate.

How Can Your Neck Cause a Headache?

Your neck contains joints, muscles, nerves, and other structures that work together to support your head and allow movement.

When certain structures in the upper neck become irritated or affected, pain can sometimes travel toward the back of the head, temples, or forehead.

This type of headache is called a cervicogenic headache. It is a headache that originates from a problem in the neck.

Some common signs include:

• Pain that begins in the neck or at the base of the skull.

• Headache that usually affects one side of the head.

• Neck stiffness or limited movement.

• Pain that becomes worse with certain neck movements or positions.

• Discomfort that spreads from the neck toward the head.

These symptoms can overlap with other headache conditions, so a proper evaluation is important.

Is It a Neck-Related Headache or a Migraine?

This is where things can get confusing.

Migraines and neck-related headaches can feel similar, especially when both involve head and neck pain.

However, they are not the same condition.

What Can Make Neck-Related Headaches Worse?

Several factors may contribute to neck discomfort and irritation, including:

• Prolonged sitting or staying in one position.

• Repeatedly looking down at a phone or computer.

• Poorly supported sleeping positions.

• Previous neck injuries or strains.

• Reduced neck mobility and muscle endurance.

These factors do not necessarily cause a headache on their own, but they may contribute to symptoms in some people.

Can Physical Therapy Help?

If your headaches may be related to your neck, a physical therapy evaluation can help determine whether the neck is contributing to your symptoms.

A physical therapist may assess:

• Neck mobility and range of motion.

• Muscle strength and endurance.

• Shoulder and upper back movement.

• Posture and movement habits.

• Activities or positions that reproduce your symptoms.

Depending on the findings, treatment may include targeted exercises, mobility work, strengthening, and education on managing daily activities.

Physical therapy can be helpful for certain neck-related headaches, but migraines and other headache conditions may require medical evaluation and treatment as well.

When Should You Get Your Headache Checked?

Do not ignore headaches that are becoming more frequent, severe, or different from what you normally experience.

Seek emergency medical attention for a sudden, extremely severe headache, or a headache accompanied by weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, confusion, vision loss, fever, or a stiff neck.

If headaches keep returning or interfere with your daily activities, speak with a healthcare professional to identify the possible cause.

Take Action Today

You do not have to simply accept recurring neck pain or headaches as part of everyday life.

If neck discomfort is affecting your ability to work, sleep, exercise, or enjoy your daily activities, MOSS Rehabilitation Center is here to help you understand your symptoms and explore your options.

Call 817-220-6677 to schedule your FREE Discovery Visit.

“A healthy man has thousands of wishes, a sick man has only one.”
Agnes Karll Schwest Krankenpfleger

“Remember: Start so small it is impossible to fail.”
Kaizen

We love helping everyday people get back to doing the things they love to do.

At MOSS Rehabilitation Center, we make it easy for you to get started. We even have a simple 3-step process:

1. Schedule a FREE, No-Obligation Discovery Visit.
Talk with our friendly experts in a safe and confidential environment.

2. Receive a Customized Treatment Plan.
We develop an individualized plan based on your symptoms, limitations, and personal goals.

3. Get Your Life Back and Do What You Love.
Take the next step toward moving better and returning to the activities that matter to you.

NEXT ACTION: Call 817-220-6677 to request your FREE, NO-OBLIGATION Discovery Visit.

To your health,

Dr. Robert Moss PT, ScD, OCS, FAAOMPT
MOSS Rehabilitation Center

P.S. I have put together a free guide to help with your neck pain click HERE to grab your copy of The Neck Owner’s Manual or if you have questions about your neck or how we can help call 817-220-6677

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your symptoms before starting a new treatment or exercise program.