Neck, head & jaw
Cervicogenic headache
When neck movement and familiar head pain seem connected
What it means
Cervicogenic headache is head pain attributed to a neck disorder. Restricted motion or familiar head pain brought on by neck movement can help build the case. Migraine can also involve neck pain, so headache history and associated symptoms matter. [1, 2]
What I check in the clinic
I ask what starts the headache and what a typical episode feels like. If looking over your shoulder recreates familiar head pain, I may compare the turn with a different sitting position and track what changes in both the neck and the head.
What the evidence says about care
Reviews suggest exercise and manual therapy can help some people with diagnosed cervicogenic headache. Estimates vary across studies. I’d track headache days over time alongside how the neck moves in a visit. [3, 4, 5]
Common questions
Why does checking over one shoulder bring on my familiar headache?
Tell me where it starts and how it compares with your usual headache. I can compare the turn in the clinic and use your history to decide whether the neck deserves a closer look.
My neck moved better after the visit. How do we know if that helped my headaches?
I’d track the turn and headache days separately. A comfortable turn is worth noticing. Your usual headache pattern over time tells us whether anything else is changing.
What if I get a headache on a day my neck feels fine?
I’d ask what that headache feels like and what else goes along with it. Different episodes give us different questions and can help decide what type of evaluation fits.
Why does it happen after a long call but disappear before I come in?
Describe your setup and how long it takes to start. We can compare a similar position and use the next usual call to check whether the change helps.
When should a headache get checked immediately?
Call 911 or go to the emergency department if a headache comes on suddenly and is extremely severe. [6]
What should I bring to an evaluation?
Bring one example of a movement or activity you want back, along with any relevant imaging or treatment notes you already have.