Physiotherapy for Headaches and Neck Pain Relief

Headaches can significantly impact daily life, especially when they occur frequently. Understanding the type of headache you're experiencing is key to finding the right treatment. At our clinic, we specialise in physiotherapy for cervicogenic headaches (CGH)—headaches that originate from the neck and account for up to 20% of all headache disorders.

What Are Cervicogenic Headaches (CGH)?

CGHs are classified as secondary headaches, meaning they are caused by an underlying issue—in this case, dysfunction in the upper cervical spine (the top three vertebrae in the neck). Pain may be felt in areas such as:

• The back of the head

• Temples

• Behind the eyes

• Around the ears

These headaches often present with:

• One-sided pain that starts in the neck

• Neck stiffness and pain that worsens with movement

• Tenderness in the neck muscles

• Reduced neck mobility

• Associated symptoms like nausea, poor concentration, or irritability

What Causes Cervicogenic Headaches?

CGHs can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Whiplash or neck trauma

• Poor posture

• Sleeping in awkward positions

• Osteoarthritis in the cervical spine

The upper cervical nerves share sensory pathways with the trigeminal nerve (which serves the face and jaw), making it possible for neck dysfunction to be perceived as head pain.

Physiotherapy for Headache Relief

Research strongly supports physiotherapy as an effective treatment for cervicogenic headaches. Our experienced physiotherapists conduct a thorough assessment to determine the root cause of your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan.

Your treatment may include:

• Manual therapy: Joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage, and trigger point therapy

• Postural correction: Exercises and education to improve neck alignment

• Stretching and strengthening: Targeted exercises to restore movement and reduce muscular tension

• Dry needling: To release tight muscles contributing to pain

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your initial assessment will include a detailed interview and physical exam. Based on the findings, we’ll create a tailored physiotherapy program combining hands-on treatment and home exercises.

Book Your Headache Physiotherapy Assessment

If you're experiencing persistent or recurrent headaches, especially those starting in the neck, physiotherapy can provide effective, non-invasive relief. Contact us today to book your assessment and take control of your headache pain.