Cervicogenic Headache (Neck Headache) – Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

Key Points

• Cervicogenic headache is a headache that originates from the neck (cervical spine).

• Often mistaken for migraine or tension headache.

• Caused by irritated joints, muscles, or nerves in the upper neck.

• At Bromley Sports Injury Clinic, we use clinical assessment and tailored osteopathic care to treat the root cause.

👉 Related: Neck Pain | Whiplash | Cervical Radiculopathy | Pins & Needles

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What is a Cervicogenic Headache?

A cervicogenic headache is pain referred from the neck into the head.

Problems in the upper cervical joints, discs, or muscles can irritate nerves that transmit pain into the back, side, or front of the head.

Unlike migraines, cervicogenic headaches:

• Usually start in the neck/base of the skull

• Worsen with neck movement or posture

• Often occur on one side only

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Symptoms

• Pain starting in the neck or base of skull, spreading to head or eye

• Headache worsened by neck movement or prolonged posture

• Stiffness or reduced mobility in the neck

• Pain often on one side of the head

• Sometimes associated with dizziness or shoulder discomfort

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Causes & Risk Factors

• Poor posture (desk work, screens)

• Trauma (e.g. whiplash)

• Cervical joint or disc dysfunction

• Muscle imbalance or tightness in upper neck/shoulders

• Arthritis in cervical spine

• Stress-related tension

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Diagnosis at Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

• Osteopathic assessment – posture, mobility, and joint testing

• Differential diagnosis – distinguishing cervicogenic headache from migraine or tension-type headache

• Referral for imaging – if red flags or neurological symptoms are present

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Self-Help for Cervicogenic Headaches

• Take regular breaks from desk work

• Check ergonomics: screen height, chair, keyboard setup

• Apply heat or gentle stretches to neck and shoulders

• Stay active and strengthen postural muscles

• Manage stress with breathing, relaxation, or exercise

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Treatment Options at Bromley Sports Injury Clinic

✅ Osteopathic treatment – joint mobilisation, soft tissue release
✅ Exercise rehabilitation – strengthening neck and shoulder stabilisers
✅ Postural correction – ergonomics, desk setup, and movement strategies
✅ Sports massage – easing muscle tightness contributing to headaches
✅ Referral – neurology or imaging if symptoms suggest alternative causes

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Prevention

• Maintain good posture throughout the day

• Strengthen deep neck flexors and upper back muscles

• Avoid prolonged static sitting

• Use supportive pillows and sleeping positions

• Early treatment after neck injuries (e.g. whiplash)

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FAQs – Cervicogenic Headache

Q: How do I know if my headache is from my neck?
If it starts in the neck, is worsened by neck movement, and is one-sided, it may be cervicogenic.

Q: Can osteopathy help with neck headaches?
Yes. Mobilisation and rehab can reduce the underlying neck dysfunction driving the headache.

Q: Is it the same as migraine?
No. Migraines often include nausea, light sensitivity, and pulsating pain. Cervicogenic headaches are usually mechanical and posture-related.

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Book Your Appointment

Don’t put up with headaches caused by your neck. Book your cervicogenic headache assessment in Bromley today for expert care and relief.

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📍 Bromley Sports Injury Clinic | Same-week appointments available