Cervicogenic headaches are common and often missed. Here's how they typically present.
Not every headache starts in the head. A meaningful share begin in the upper neck and refer pain upward, which is why they often don't respond to the usual remedies.
What they tend to feel like
Usually one-sided, and fairly consistent about which side. Often starting at the base of the skull and spreading forward behind the eye. Frequently worse after a long stretch at a screen or a night in an awkward position.
What sets them apart
Neck movement usually changes them, and there's often tenderness in the muscles at the top of the neck. Migraines more often bring light sensitivity, nausea, or visual changes, though the two can overlap.
What helps
Restoring motion in the upper neck, releasing the muscles referring the pain, and then addressing whatever posture or load keeps recreating it. That last part is what stops them returning.
Please note. Sudden, severe, or unusual headaches, or a headache with weakness, speech changes, or vision loss, need urgent medical attention rather than a chiropractic appointment.
