Neck pain and headaches often occur together, leading many people to wonder whether one can cause the other. The answer is yes. Neck pain can directly trigger headaches, especially when muscles, joints, or nerves in the cervical spine become irritated or injured. This type of headache is commonly known as a cervicogenic headache.
How can neck pain cause headaches?
The cervical spine contains muscles, joints, discs, and nerves that are closely connected to the base of the skull. When these structures are strained, inflamed, or compressed, pain signals can travel upward into the head. This often results in headaches that begin in the neck and spread toward the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes.
Neck pain caused by poor posture, repetitive strain, whiplash injuries, or spinal degeneration is especially likely to produce headaches.
What do headaches caused by neck pain usually feel like?
- Pain that starts at the base of the skull and moves forward
- Headaches that worsen with neck movement or prolonged sitting
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the neck
- Head pain accompanied by shoulder or upper back tension
Neck-related headaches vs migraines
Headaches caused by neck pain are often confused with migraines. However, cervicogenic headaches are usually triggered by neck movement or posture and are closely linked to stiffness or pain in the neck. Migraines, on the other hand, are more likely to include nausea, light sensitivity, or visual disturbances.
Common causes of neck pain that lead to headaches
Several conditions can irritate the cervical spine and trigger headaches. These include muscle strain, poor posture, degenerative disc disease, herniated cervical discs, and injuries such as whiplash from car accidents or workplace incidents.
When is neck pain with headaches a concern?
Neck pain and headaches should be taken seriously if they occur frequently, worsen over time, or interfere with daily activities. Headaches that begin after an accident, are associated with numbness or weakness in the arms, or significantly limit neck movement require medical evaluation.
When should you see a doctor for neck pain and headaches?
You should seek medical care if headaches persist despite rest, are clearly linked to neck pain, worsen with movement, or began after trauma. Early evaluation can prevent chronic pain and help identify underlying nerve or spinal issues.
Expert evaluation for neck pain and headaches
Neck pain can be a hidden cause of chronic headaches. At Allied Neurology & Interventional Pain Practice, we focus on identifying the source of cervical spine pain and providing non-surgical treatments designed to relieve both neck pain and associated headaches.
Call 201-894-1313 to schedule a consultation if neck pain and headaches are affecting your quality of life.
