What Is a Cervicogenic Headache? Understanding Headaches That Originate From the Neck

May 8, 2026

Many people assume that all headaches originate from the head. However, some headaches actually begin in the neck.

One of the most common neck-related headaches is known as a cervicogenic headache. These headaches occur when structures within the neck — such as joints, muscles, nerves, or connective tissues — become irritated and refer pain into the head.

Because cervicogenic headaches often mimic other types of headaches, many people spend months or even years treating the wrong problem.

At Gordon Physical Therapy, we frequently help individuals throughout Spokane Valley, WA identify whether their headaches may be originating from the neck and develop a treatment plan designed to address the underlying cause.

What Does “Cervicogenic” Mean?

The term “cervicogenic” simply means that the headache originates from the cervical spine, which is the medical term for the neck.

Unlike migraines or headaches caused by illness, a cervicogenic headache begins because of dysfunction within the neck itself.

Common sources include:

• Restricted neck joints

• Muscle tension

• Poor posture

• Previous neck injuries

• Whiplash

• Degenerative changes within the cervical spine

• Repetitive strain from work or daily activities

When these structures become irritated, pain signals can travel from the neck into the head, creating a headache.

What Are the Symptoms of a Cervicogenic Headache?

Symptoms vary from person to person, but several characteristics are common.

Many individuals experience:

• Pain that begins at the base of the skull

• Headaches on one side of the head

• Neck stiffness

• Reduced ability to turn the head

• Pain that worsens with certain neck movements

• Headaches after prolonged sitting or computer work

• Pain that radiates toward the forehead, temple, or behind the eye

Some people notice that their headaches worsen after spending long periods looking down at a phone or working at a computer.

Unlike migraines, cervicogenic headaches are often closely associated with neck pain and restricted neck mobility.

How Is a Cervicogenic Headache Different From a Migraine?

Because symptoms sometimes overlap, cervicogenic headaches are frequently mistaken for migraines.

However, there are several important differences.

Cervicogenic Headaches Often:

• Begin in the neck

• Are associated with neck stiffness

• Worsen with neck movement

• Improve when neck function improves

• Occur primarily on one side

Migraines Often:

• Involve throbbing pain

• Cause nausea

• Cause sensitivity to light or sound

• May occur without neck pain

• Can be triggered by hormonal, dietary, or neurological factors

It is important to note that some individuals experience both migraines and cervicogenic headaches simultaneously.

What Causes Cervicogenic Headaches?

Several conditions may contribute to cervicogenic headaches.

Poor Posture

Forward head posture places increased stress on the muscles and joints of the upper neck. Over time, this stress may contribute to recurring headaches.

Tech Neck

Looking down at smartphones, tablets, and laptops for extended periods can strain the neck and contribute to headache development.

Stress and Muscle Tension

Stress frequently causes people to tighten their neck and shoulder muscles, creating additional tension that may contribute to headaches.

Whiplash Injuries

Motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and falls can create dysfunction within the neck that contributes to long-term headaches.

Because whiplash injuries frequently occur alongside concussions, some individuals may experience a combination of neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and balance problems following an accident.

If your symptoms began following an accident, you may benefit from learning more about our Concussion & Whiplash Treatment Program (click that link to learn more!).

Previous Neck Injuries

Even injuries that occurred years ago may contribute to chronic headaches if underlying mobility restrictions or muscle imbalances remain unresolved.

How Are Cervicogenic Headaches Diagnosed?

There is no single imaging test that definitively diagnoses a cervicogenic headache.

Instead, diagnosis often involves identifying specific patterns, including:

• Neck pain accompanying headaches

• Reduced neck mobility

• Symptoms reproduced by neck movement

• Improvement when neck dysfunction is treated

A thorough physical therapy evaluation can help determine whether the neck may be contributing to your headaches.

How Physical Therapy Can Help Cervicogenic Headaches

Because cervicogenic headaches originate from the neck, treatment often focuses on improving neck function.

Physical therapy may include:

• Manual therapy

• Joint mobilization

• Soft tissue treatment

• Stretching exercises

• Strengthening exercises

• Postural correction

• Ergonomic recommendations

The goal is to address the source of the problem rather than simply managing symptoms.

Many patients experience significant improvement when the underlying neck dysfunction is properly identified and treated.

Looking For Answers?

If you’re struggling with recurring headaches and suspect your neck may be involved, our team can help.

Learn more about our Neck Pain & Headaches Treatment Program and discover how physical therapy may help you find lasting relief.

Click here to learn more! 

When Should You See a Physical Therapist?

Consider scheduling an evaluation if:

• Headaches occur regularly

• Neck pain accompanies your headaches

• Symptoms worsen after computer work

• You experience limited neck mobility

• Headaches began after an injury or accident

• Medication provides only temporary relief

The sooner the source of the problem is identified, the sooner an effective treatment plan can begin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can neck pain cause cervicogenic headaches?

Yes. Cervicogenic headaches originate from structures within the neck and are commonly associated with neck pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility.

Are cervicogenic headaches serious?

While they are generally not dangerous, they can significantly impact quality of life and may become chronic if the underlying cause is not addressed.

Can poor posture cause cervicogenic headaches?

Yes. Poor posture can increase stress on the muscles and joints of the neck, contributing to headache development.

Can physical therapy help cervicogenic headaches?

Many people experience significant improvement when physical therapy addresses the underlying neck dysfunction contributing to their symptoms.

How do I know if my headaches are coming from my neck?

Common signs include neck pain, stiffness, headaches that begin at the base of the skull, and symptoms that worsen with neck movement.

Related Reading

If you’re wondering whether your headaches may be connected to neck pain, read our article:

Can Neck Pain Cause Headaches? Understanding the Connection

Simply click that link to view that article. 

Find Out What’s Really Causing Your Headaches

You don’t have to continue guessing why your headaches keep returning.

At Gordon Physical Therapy, we help people throughout Spokane Valley, WA identify the source of their symptoms and create personalized treatment plans designed to help them return to the activities they enjoy most.

Call or text us today at (509) 892-5442 to see how we can help you eliminate your neck pain and headaches for good!