Cervicogenic Headaches: How Physiotherapy Can Help

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, but not all headaches are the same. For many people, the pain may not be coming from the head at all, but from the neck. This type of headache is known as a cervicogenic headache, and it can be both frustrating and debilitating if left untreated.

What is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache originates from dysfunction in the neck structures, most often the joints, muscles, or nerves in the cervical spine. Instead of feeling pain in the neck alone, the discomfort radiates to the head, causing a headache.

Typical signs include:

• Pain that starts at the base of the skull and radiates forward

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck

• Headaches triggered or worsened by certain neck movements or posture

• Pain that often occurs on one side of the head

Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, meaning they are caused by an underlying issue, most often musculoskeletal in nature.

Common Causes

Cervicogenic headaches are frequently linked to:

• Poor posture (prolonged desk or screen time)

• Whiplash or neck injuries

• Arthritis or joint degeneration

• Muscle imbalances or stiffness in the shoulders and upper back

• Stress-related tension leading to muscle tightness

With many North Sydney professionals spending hours at desks or in meetings, it’s no surprise that these headaches are becoming increasingly common in the workplace.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy plays a key role in both relieving pain and addressing the root cause of cervicogenic headaches. Treatment may include:

• Manual therapy is gentle joint mobilisations and soft tissue techniques to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.

• Postural correction to help identify and correcting poor postures that contribute to headaches.

• Targeted exercises for strengthening weak muscles and stretching tight ones to restore balance.

• Education and self-management strategies for helping you understand triggers and how to prevent flare-ups.

• Workstation and ergonomic advice for ensuring your environment supports a healthy neck and spine.

By addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes, physiotherapy provides long-term relief rather than just masking the pain.

Take Control of Your Headaches

If you’ve been struggling with recurring headaches that seem to stem from your neck, physiotherapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Our team at Urban Physiotherapy in North Sydney specialises in treating cervicogenic headaches and helping patients return to a pain-free lifestyle. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief. - https://urban-physiotherapy.au2.cliniko.com/bookings?business_id=423637795941128200#service