13/11/2025
Cervicogenic Headaches
Not all headaches come from the head — some begin in the neck. If you’ve ever experienced pain that starts at the back of your neck and creeps up to your head, you may be dealing with a Cervicogenic Headache (CGH). Unlike migraines or tension headaches, a cervicogenic headache is caused by issues in the cervical spine — the upper part of your neck. The good news is that with the right physiotherapy approach, most people can find lasting relief without depending on painkillers. What Exactly Is a Cervicogenic Headache? A cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache, meaning it originates from a problem elsewhere — in this case, the neck joints, discs, or muscles. The pain is referred to the head because the nerves from the upper cervical spine (C1–C3) share pathways with the nerves that transmit head pain. In simple terms, your brain misinterprets neck pain as a headache. Common Causes Several everyday habits and conditions can trigger or worsen cervicogenic headaches: Poor posture — long hours at a desk or on the phone Muscle tightness or imbalance in the neck and shoulders Cervical spondylosis or arthritis Whiplash or previous neck injury Prolonged stress or static positions at work Over time, these factors lead to joint stiffness, muscle spasm, and nerve irritation in the neck — all of which can refer pain to the head. Typical Symptoms Cervicogenic headaches often have a few telltale signs: Pain that starts at the base of the skull or neck and radiates to the forehead, temple, or around the eye Usually affects one side of the head Worsens with neck movement or sustained posture Associated neck stiffness or limited movement Sometimes accompanied by mild dizziness or shoulder discomfort How Physiotherapy Helps Physiotherapy is one of the most effective and evidence-based treatments for cervicogenic headaches. Instead of masking the pain, physiotherapy focuses on correcting the root cause — the mechanical dysfunction of the neck. Here’s how physiotherapy helps: 1. Postural Correction Your physiotherapist will assess your posture and identify stress points. Small ergonomic adjustments — such as proper desk height or screen level — can make
