Cervicogenic Headaches: Causes, Symptoms & Physiotherapy Solutions

Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck and radiate to the head.

Learn causes, symptoms, and how Renaissance Physio’s evidence-based treatment brings relief.

Cervicogenic headache

What Is a Cervicogenic Headache?

Cervicogenic headaches are chronic, neck-generated headaches that feel as though the pain originates in the head or face. They often follow whiplash, concussion, or prolonged poor posture and involve the first three cervical vertebrae (C1–C3) and surrounding soft tissues.

Why Neck Issues Trigger Headaches

• Upper cervical anatomy matters.

  • C1 (Atlas) & Atlanto-Occipital Joint – supplies ~30 % of neck flexion/extension.

  • C2 (Axis) & Atlanto-Axial Joint – supplies ~60 % of neck rotation.

• Irritation of joints, discs, ligaments, or nerves at C1–C3 can refer pain into the skull.

Renaissance Physio-Cervical Spine

Common Causes

Mechanical & Lifestyle	Traumatic	Environmental
Neck muscle stiffness Joint dysfunction Prolonged desk work	Motor-vehicle whiplash Concussion in contact sport	High stress levels Poor sleep quality

Renaissance Physio-Common symptoms

Recognizing the Symptoms

• Constant, dull, one-sided ache

• Gradual onset; can linger for days

• Morning pain or pain triggered by neck movement/posture

• Local tenderness and stiffness at the upper neck

Red-flag check-list: sudden “worst headache ever,” visual changes, dizziness, or neurological symptoms warrant immediate medical review.

Evidence-Based Physiotherapy Management

1. Postural re-education – ergonomic workstation setup & cueing.

2. Manual therapy – soft-tissue release and joint mobilisation to restore movement.

3. Dry needling & myofascial techniques – to reduce muscle spasm.

4. Therapeutic exercise – graded strength & mobility program for deep neck flexors, scapular stabilisers, and thoracic extension.

5. Adjuncts – heat therapy, kinesiology or rigid taping for neuromuscular feedback.

6. Self-management toolkit – customised home-exercise videos, headache diary, and stress-management strategies.

   
   

What to Expect at Renaissance Physio

• 40-minute initial assessment using validated headache screening tools.

• Personalized treatment plan built around your goals and lifestyle.

• Ongoing outcome tracking with the Neck Disability Index (NDI) and headache frequency logs.

Ready for relief? Book online or call us on (647) 529-6889 to start your recovery today. Relief is possible-let's open that door together.