Is Your Neck Causing Your Headache? Signs It’s More Than a Migraine

Most people have experienced a headache, but when the pain starts in your neck and radiates upward, it might be something more specific: a cervicogenic headache. Often misunderstood or misdiagnosed as a migraine, this type of headache originates from the neck and can feel just as intense and debilitating.

What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary headache, meaning it’s caused by an underlying issue—usually in the joints, discs, muscles, or nerves of the neck. Unlike migraines or tension headaches, CGH typically starts in the neck and radiates upward along one side of the head, face, or eye.

While the term might not be well known, the symptoms are all too familiar for many people struggling with persistent one-sided head and neck pain.

Neck Pain Headache Symptoms to Look For

The most common signs of a cervicogenic headache include:

• A dull, steady ache that begins in the neck
• Pain that spreads to the back of the head, forehead, eye, or temple
• Headaches that occur only on one side of the head (side-locked)
• Neck stiffness or reduced range of motion
• Tenderness in the neck or upper shoulder region
• Sometimes: blurred vision, dizziness, or nausea

In some cases, people experience migraine-like symptoms such as sensitivity to light, sound, or mild swelling around the affected eye. These overlaps make CGH harder to diagnose without a physical exam.

What Causes This Kind of Headache?

Cervicogenic headaches are often triggered by:

• Neck injuries (like whiplash or trauma)
• Poor posture or spinal misalignment
• Cervical disc or joint degeneration
• Nerve compression or inflammation
• Underlying medical conditions affecting the neck

Pain can also be aggravated by neck movement or holding your head in the same position for too long—such as looking down at your phone or sitting at a desk.

How Is It Different From a Migraine?

It’s common to confuse CGH with migraines, but they differ in cause and presentation:

Treatment Options: How to Relieve a Neck Pain Headache

If you suspect your headache is coming from your neck, early treatment is key. Options may include:

At-Home Relief:

• Apply a heating pad before stretching to loosen neck muscles
• Use a cold pack afterward to reduce inflammation
• Maintain good posture and take breaks from screen time

Medical Treatment:

• Physical therapy to improve mobility and alignment
• Trigger point injections or nerve blocks
• Manual manipulation or chiropractic care (under professional guidance)
• Over-the-counter NSAIDs (talk to your doctor before prolonged use)

Cervicogenic Headache Exercises

Your doctor may recommend targeted exercises to reduce neck stiffness and restore function. These might include:

• Chin tucks
• Neck stretches (side to side and forward)
• Shoulder blade squeezes
• Gentle range-of-motion drills

Always speak with your provider before beginning any new exercise routine—especially if your pain is intense or movement is limited.

Don’t Ignore the Signs — Get Expert Help

Cervicogenic headaches can significantly impact your quality of life. If left untreated, they may worsen or trigger other chronic conditions. At BASS Medical Group, our experienced providers work with you to pinpoint the root cause of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan.

Struggling with Neck Pain and Headaches?

Don’t wait for the pain to go away on its own. Schedule an appointment with a BASS Medical provider to find lasting relief and get back to living comfortably.