Not every headache originates in the head. For a subset of people, recurring headaches are closely tied to how well the joints and muscles in the upper neck are functioning — these are often referred to as cervicogenic, or neck-related, headaches.

How a Neck Problem Can Feel Like a Head Problem

The upper neck sits close to nerve pathways that also carry sensation from the back and sides of the head. When those upper neck joints are restricted, the resulting irritation can be felt as pain elsewhere — commonly starting at the base of the skull and spreading toward the forehead or behind one eye, often on one side more than the other.

What Tends to Make It Worse (or Better)

Neck-related headaches often respond to movement and position in a way that distinguishes them from other headache types — they may worsen with prolonged sitting, an awkward sleeping position, or extended neck movement in one direction, and sometimes ease with a change in posture or gentle neck movement.

More on how neck-related headaches are assessed is available on our website