When Headaches Start in the Spine: Understanding Cervicogenic Headaches

Many people assume headaches start in the head — but some actually begin in the neck. These are called cervicogenic headaches, and they’re often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

If you’ve tried pain relievers or even seen specialists with no lasting relief, the real problem might be coming from your spine — and chiropractic care can help.

🧠 What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?

Cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction or irritation in the cervical spine (the neck). When joints, discs, or muscles in this area become inflamed or restricted, the nerves that travel into the head can be affected — resulting in a headache that feels like it starts at the base of the skull and radiates forward.

Typical symptoms include:

• Pain that starts in the neck or base of the skull

• One-sided headache that may extend to the forehead or eye

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck

• Worsening with certain movements or posture

These are often mistaken for migraines or tension headaches — but the cause is structural, not chemical or emotional.

🔎 How Chiropractors Diagnose Cervicogenic Headaches

Chiropractors are trained to differentiate between types of headaches based on physical findings and history. When we suspect a cervicogenic origin, we perform:

• A detailed spinal and neurological exam

• Postural analysis

• Palpation of the cervical spine to find restricted joints or muscle tightness

• Tests to assess movement-related triggers

• Imaging (if needed) to rule out disc or joint degeneration

✅ Chiropractic Treatment for Cervicogenic Headaches

Once we confirm the root of the issue, treatment focuses on restoring proper movement, reducing nerve irritation, and strengthening the supportive muscles of the neck.

Chiropractic care may include:

• Cervical spinal adjustments to improve alignment and joint mobility

• Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension

• Corrective exercises to improve posture and head carriage

• Ergonomic coaching for workstations or sleep positions

Many patients notice their headaches become less frequent, less intense, or completely resolve over time.

🌟 You Don’t Have to “Push Through” Headaches

If your headaches often come with neck stiffness, limited motion, or a sensation of tightness in the base of your skull — they may not be “just tension.”
They could be cervicogenic — and that’s something chiropractic is uniquely suited to help.

If you’re ready to stop treating the symptoms and start addressing the cause, schedule your chiropractic evaluation today.