A cervicogenic headache is a type of headache that starts in the neck and is caused by problems in the joints, muscles, or nerves of the upper cervical spine (the top part of your neck). Even though the pain is felt in your head, the true source is your neck — often due to poor posture, injury, or stiffness in the upper neck joints.

An analogy…

Imagine your neck is like the base of a lamp, and your head is the light bulb. If something’s wrong at the base, like it’s bent or loose, it can affect how the whole lamp works. In the same way, if your neck isn’t moving well or is under strain, it can create pain that shows up as a headache.

What are other names that a cervicogenic headache can be referred to?

Headache, Cervical Headache, Neck Related Headache, Referred Pain from the Neck

What causes a cervicogenic headache?

It’s usually caused by irritation or dysfunction in the upper neck joints (C1–C3). These joints and nearby muscles or nerves can send pain signals up into the head.

What are the signs and symptoms of a cervicogenic headache?

• Pain that starts in the neck and travels to the head
• One-sided headache (but neck pain may be on both sides)
• Headache worsens with neck movement or poor posture
• Stiff neck or reduced range of motion
• Tenderness at the base of the skull
• Pain that may radiate to the forehead, temple, or behind the eye
• Often no throbbing or pulsing (unlike migraines)

What tests are used to diagnose a cervicogenic headache?

Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test: Checks for restriction in upper neck rotation; pain or limited movement suggests joint involvement.

Palpation of Upper Cervical Spine: Pressing on the joints or muscles to see if it reproduces the headache.

How long does a cervicogenic headache take to heal?

Most people with cervicogenic headaches recover well with the right treatment. Mild cases can improve in just a few days, while others may take 2–3 weeks. In more severe or long-term cases, recovery might take several weeks to months, depending on how consistent treatment is and how bad the injury is.

How does a cervicogenic headache happen?

• Prolonged poor posture (e.g. desk work, looking down at phone)
• Weak neck and upper back muscles
• High stress and tension
• Lack of movement or sedentary lifestyle
• Previous neck injuries (e.g. whiplash)
• Sleeping in awkward positions

What treatment can help a cervicogenic headache?

• Manual therapy to improve neck joint mobility
• Soft tissue massage for tight muscles
• Postural training and correction
• Strengthening exercises for neck and shoulders
• Heat therapy to ease tension
• Education on desk and screen setup
• Breathing and relaxation techniques
• Advice on pillow choice and sleeping posture

What happens if the cervicogenic headache doesn’t get better with treatment?

In some cases, even with the right treatment, a small number of people with cervicogenic headaches don’t fully improve. They may need further care, such as scans, medication, injections, or a referral to a specialist for other treatment options.

What exercises or stretches can I do for a cervicogenic headache?

• Chin Tucks
• Shoulder Blade Squeezes
• Rotation in Sitting

What products can help with a cervicogenic headache?

• Trigger Ball
• Wheatbag