Can a Headache That Starts Near the Base of the Skull Be Related to the Neck?
A headache that starts at the back of the neck and moves up toward the head may be linked to joints or muscles in the upper neck. We first check whether tissues around the neck have become stiff and stuck together and assess circulation in that area. If the headache is related to the neck, we may consider Circulation HD and Circulation PT based on your condition. Book an appointment online.
Can Pain from the Upper Neck Spread to the Head?
Pain from the upper neck joints can spread to the head. But a headache near the base of the skull is not enough to establish a diagnosis of cervicogenic headache. During the examination, we look at how the headache begins, how it changes when you move your neck, and whether you have other symptoms.
How Do We Treat a Headache Related to the Neck?
If the examination suggests that your headache is related to the neck, we decide on treatment based on your pain and neck movement.
- Circulation HD uses ultrasound guidance while fluid is injected to create space between tissues that are compressed or stuck together. The aim is to reduce swelling around the neck and help clear substances linked to inflammation. We decide whether to proceed with Circulation HD after an examination.
- Circulation PT assesses neck and shoulder movement and helps you relearn the movements you need.
In a study of people diagnosed with cervicogenic headache, headaches decreased after neck exercises. This finding may not apply to every headache. We decide on the treatment approach after an examination.
What Else Should You Know About Headaches Near the Base of the Skull?
Can a headache that starts near the base of the skull be related to the neck?
Pain from joints or muscles in the upper neck can spread to the head. We first check whether tissues around the neck have become stiff and stuck together and assess circulation in that area. We also assess your headache pattern and neck movement.
What care can I receive here if my headaches keep returning?
We assess your headache pattern and neck condition. If the headache is related to the neck, we may consider Circulation HD and Circulation PT based on your condition. We decide on the treatment approach after an examination.
When should I seek emergency care for a headache?
Seek emergency care first if you have a sudden severe headache, weakness in an arm or leg on one side, slurred speech, or a change in consciousness.
Have More Questions About Headaches and Neck Pain?
Would You Like Us to Assess Your Headaches?
Discuss your headache pattern and neck condition with us to plan your care.
Book OnlineReferences
- Bogduk N, Govind J. Cervicogenic headache: an assessment of the evidence on clinical diagnosis, invasive tests, and treatment. Lancet Neurol. 2009;8(10):959-968. PMID 19747657
- Bini P, Hohenschurz-Schmidt D, Masullo V, Pitt D, Draper-Rodi J. The effectiveness of manual and exercise therapy on headache intensity and frequency among patients with cervicogenic headache: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Chiropr Man Therap. 2022;30(1):49. PMID 36419164
- Jull G, Trott P, Potter H, et al. A randomized controlled trial of exercise and manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache. Spine. 2002;27(17):1835-1843. PMID 12221344
- Do TP, Remmers A, Schytz HW, et al. Red and orange flags for secondary headaches in clinical practice: SNNOOP10 list. Neurology. 2019;92(3):134-144. PMID 30587518