Relieving Cervicogenic Headaches with Physiotherapy: A Natural, Effective Approach

Cervicogenic headaches can feel like a dull, throbbing pain that starts in the neck and radiates to the back or side of the head, often affecting one side. Unlike migraines or tension-type headaches, cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction in the neck — specifically the upper cervical spine. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers a highly effective, non-invasive approach to managing and treating these headaches.

What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache is a secondary headache, meaning it originates from a different source — in this case, the neck. Common causes include:

• Poor posture (especially from prolonged sitting or screen use)

• Neck injuries such as whiplash

• Joint stiffness in the upper cervical spine

• Muscle tension or imbalances

• Degenerative changes in the cervical spine

Symptoms typically include:

• Headache starting at the base of the skull

• Neck stiffness or pain

• Pain that worsens with certain movements or postures

• Reduced neck range of motion

  
  

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy addresses both the root cause and the symptoms of cervicogenic headaches. A tailored treatment plan may include:

1. Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage are used to reduce stiffness in the cervical spine and release muscle tension in the neck and upper shoulders. These techniques help restore proper alignment and mobility.

2. Postural Correction

Poor posture is a common trigger. Physiotherapists provide ergonomic advice and exercises to correct forward head posture and improve overall spinal alignment.

3. Targeted Exercises

Customized stretching and strengthening exercises help relieve tension in overactive muscles and activate deep neck stabilizers. These exercises support the neck, improve mobility, and reduce the recurrence of headaches.

4. Dry Needling or Trigger Point Release

Some physiotherapists may use techniques like dry needling to deactivate trigger points in tight muscles that refer pain to the head.

5. Education & Lifestyle Advice

Therapists educate patients on proper posture, safe movement habits, and neck care strategies to prevent future headaches — especially for those working at a desk or spending long hours on devices.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Cervicogenic Headaches

• Reduces frequency and intensity of headaches

• Relieves neck and shoulder tension

• Improves posture and mobility

• Promotes long-term headache prevention without medication

When to Seek Help

If you experience recurring headaches that seem to originate in the neck, physiotherapy may be the solution you've been looking for. A thorough assessment by a trained physiotherapist can pinpoint the source of the problem and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best.

Ready to move beyond the pain? Book an appointment with our physiotherapy team and start your journey to a headache-free life today.