11/07/2026
Not every headache starts in your head.
Some headaches actually begin in the neck.
These are known as cervicogenic headaches, where irritation or dysfunction of the joints, muscles and nerves in the upper cervical spine sends pain into the head.
Common signs include:
✔️ Pain that starts at the base of the skull
✔️ Headaches that spread to the temple, forehead or behind the eye
✔️ Reduced neck movement or stiffness
✔️ Headaches that are aggravated by certain neck positions or prolonged sitting
Your upper neck is packed with thousands of sensory receptors that constantly communicate with your brain. When these structures aren’t moving or functioning well, they can contribute to pain patterns that are felt as a headache.