Common types of headache
- Cervicogenic headache — usually one-sided, starting with neck pain and stiffness before spreading to the back, side or front of the head.
- Tension-type headache — often on both sides at the back of the head, linked to muscle tension and stress, sometimes with shoulder stiffness.
- Migraine — a severe, usually one-sided headache that may come with nausea and visual disturbance. Physiotherapy can help manage neck-related triggers.
What causes headaches?
Common causes include stiffness in the upper neck joints, posture, weakness in the neck muscles and trauma such as whiplash. Stress, hormones, sleep and diet can also play a part. Where something more serious is suspected, we'll work with your doctor.
Your treatment
Your physio takes a detailed history of how often, how long and how severe your headaches are, then examines your neck, jaw and posture to find the contributing factors. Treatment may include hands-on therapy, specific exercises, posture advice and strategies to reduce how often headaches return.
