Can Neck Pain Cause Headaches? Understanding Headaches That Come From Your Neck

Can neck pain cause headaches?

Yes. Some headaches can be caused by a problem in the neck. These are called cervicogenic headaches.

Pain associated with structures in the neck can be felt in the head. This is sometimes called referred pain. You might feel discomfort at the base of your skull, around the side of your head or towards your forehead or eye.

However, having neck pain and a headache at the same time does not automatically mean that your headache is coming from your neck. A thorough assessment is needed to understand the possible connection. ICHD-3

What is a cervicogenic headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a headache that comes from a problem in the neck. It may be associated with pain or stiffness in the neck, although not everyone experiences both.

For some people, the headache seems to begin around the neck or base of the skull and travel towards the head. It may be more noticeable on one side and can sometimes be made worse by neck movements.

Everyone’s experience is different, and these features alone are not enough to confirm a diagnosis. ICHD-3

What does a headache from the neck feel like?

Symptoms vary, but a person with a cervicogenic headache may notice:

• Pain that starts around the neck or base of the skull.
• Pain that travels towards the side, front or top of the head.
• A headache that is more noticeable on one side.
• Neck pain, stiffness or difficulty moving the neck.
• Symptoms that increase with certain neck movements or positions.
• Discomfort around the shoulder or upper back alongside the headache.

Some of these symptoms can also occur with other types of headache. That’s why it’s helpful to look at the whole picture, rather than relying on one symptom alone.

How do I know if my headache is coming from my neck?

There isn’t one question or movement that can tell you for certain whether your headache is coming from your neck. At NOVA Head & Neck Physiotherapy, I’ll take the time to understand how your symptoms started and how they behave, followed by a thorough physical assessment to explore what may be contributing to your headaches.

You may be asked:

• Where do you feel your headache and neck symptoms?
• When did the headaches start?
• How often do they happen and how long do they last?
• Do certain neck movements or activities change your symptoms?
• Have you noticed nausea or sensitivity to light and sound?
• Have your headaches changed over time?
• Have you experienced an injury or a change in your health?

Your neck movement and other relevant areas may then be assessed. If your symptoms suggest another cause, or further medical assessment is needed, I’ll discuss the appropriate next step with you.

If you experience recurring headaches and haven’t had them assessed, speak to your GP.

Can migraine and neck pain happen together?

Yes. Neck pain can occur alongside migraine. You may notice neck discomfort before, during or between migraine attacks.

This can make it difficult to tell whether your neck is contributing to your headache or whether neck pain is part of your migraine experience. Some people may experience more than one type of headache.

Migraine can also involve symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. These symptoms can help build a fuller picture, but an assessment is still important.

If you’re living with migraine, you may also find our article helpful: How to Manage Migraine: Everyday Advice and Relief During an Attack.

Can physiotherapy help headaches from the neck?

Yes, physiotherapy can help people with cervicogenic headache, particularly when an assessment suggests that the neck is contributing to their symptoms.

At NOVA Head & Neck Physiotherapy, your plan may include:

• Education and advice to help you understand your symptoms.
• Gentle neck and upper back exercises suited to your needs.
• Hands-on treatment, such as gentle spinal mobilisation and soft tissue release when appropriate.
• A gradual movement plan to help you return to activities that matter to you.
• Practical strategies for managing symptoms during work, exercise and everyday life.

The aim is not just to focus on the headache itself, but to understand how it affects your life and help you feel more confident managing it.

Physiotherapy may be part of your care alongside your GP or another healthcare professional. It does not replace medical assessment when this is needed.

What can I do if I think my headache is coming from my neck?

If you’ve been experiencing headaches and neck discomfort, a few simple steps may help you understand and manage your symptoms while you seek advice.

Notice patterns in your symptoms

Consider keeping a short diary of:

• When your headaches happen and how long they last.
• Where you feel the pain.
• Whether you also experience neck pain or stiffness.
• Whether particular movements or activities change your symptoms.
• Any other symptoms, such as nausea or sensitivity to light.
• Medication you take and how well it helps.

You don’t need to find a reason for every headache. The information can simply help you describe your symptoms when you speak to your GP or physiotherapist.

Change position regularly

If you spend a long time sitting, working at a screen or driving, try taking a break to stand up, walk around or gently move your neck and shoulders.

There is no single perfect posture that you need to hold all day. Finding comfortable positions and changing them regularly may help.

Keep movement gentle

You might find it helpful to move your neck gently within a comfortable range or go for a short walk.

You don’t need to force stretches or push through a significant increase in pain. If a movement consistently makes your symptoms worse, stop and seek advice.

Try a comfortably warm heat pack

Some people find warmth soothing for neck discomfort. Wrap a heat pack in a towel, avoid direct contact with your skin and remove it before sleeping.

Ask for an assessment

If headaches are recurring, affecting your daily life or leaving you unsure what to do, speak to your GP. A physiotherapy assessment may also be helpful when neck symptoms are part of the picture.

When should I speak to my GP?

Speak to your GP if:

• You experience recurring headaches and haven’t had them assessed.
• Your headaches are becoming more frequent or difficult to manage.
• Your symptoms are changing or affecting your daily life.
• Your current treatment isn’t helping enough.
• You’re unsure whether your symptoms could be related to migraine, your neck or something else.

Your GP can assess your symptoms and discuss whether further investigation or treatment is needed.

Frequently asked questions