If you suffer from recurring headaches, you might be surprised to learn that the source of the problem may not be in your head at all. Many common headaches, known as cervicogenic headaches, originate from structural issues and tension in the neck and upper back. In this article, we explain how misalignments in the cervical spine can irritate nerves and tighten muscles, leading to referred pain that you feel as a headache. Learn how targeted, gentle chiropractic care can correct these root issues, offering a drug-free path to clear-headed, lasting relief.

Misalignments in the cervical spine quite often contribute or are even the primary cause of headaches. These misalignments can cause irritation in the nerves of the neck which refer pain into the head. The upper cervical spine (C1-C3 especially) is closely connected to the nerves that relay pain to the head. When these joints don't move properly, they often trigger headache pain.

Poor posture, neck injuries or overuse can also contribute to headaches by causing the neck muscles to tighten or spasm. Many of these muscles attach to the base of the spine (occiput) causing headaches.

Typical signs of a cervicogenic headache are:

*Pain starting in the neck and radiating to the back or side of the head *Usually one-sided

*May worsen with certain neck movements or sustained postures *Improves while lying down

Chiropractic adjustments safely and effectively correct cervical spine misalignments, reduce muscle spasm and pain traveling to the head for quick sometimes immediate headache relief. I often use an instrument known as an Arthrostim to gently adjust the neck and restore normal alignment and joint motion.