Headaches and Migraines: When the Problem Might Be in Your Neck

Headaches are incredibly common, affecting around 15% of Australians.² Many people write them off as part of daily stress or screen time—but did you know that many headaches actually originate from issues in your neck?

Types of Headaches and What Causes Them

Headaches can have many triggers, but three types that often have musculoskeletal causes include:

• Tension-type headaches: usually caused by muscle tightness in the shoulders, neck, and scalp

• Cervicogenic headaches: originate in the neck and are often misdiagnosed as migraines

• Migraine headaches: may have vascular, hormonal, and neurological components, but can be worsened by neck tension or spinal misalignment

Long hours at a desk, bad posture, or even sleeping in the wrong position can irritate the upper cervical spine and surrounding muscles, triggering pain that radiates into the head.

The Everyday Strain of Headaches

Many people experience:

• Trouble concentrating at work

• Tension behind the eyes or in the temples

• Irritability or mood swings

• Reduced physical activity

Headaches can make it hard to enjoy the little things—playing with your kids, going for a walk, or even holding a conversation when the throbbing won’t go away.

Addressing the Root Cause

A careful assessment of posture, neck function, and lifestyle factors (like screen use and stress) can often uncover contributing factors. Stretching, movement, and spinal care may reduce the frequency and intensity of many headaches.

References: 2. AIHW, Headache prevalence in Australia, 2020. 3. Biondi DM. Cervicogenic headache: a review, J Am Osteopath Assoc. 2005.