Headaches and your neck: what’s the link?

Headaches are one of the most common reasons people see a health professional. While there are many different types, a lot of everyday headaches are connected to what’s happening in your neck, shoulders and upper back.

Tension-type and neck-related headaches

Tension-type headaches often feel like a tight band around the head, or pressure across the forehead and temples. They’re commonly linked with stress, poor sleep and long periods of sitting.

Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck. They’re often on one side, can come with neck stiffness, and may be triggered by certain neck movements or postures.

Common triggers

• Long hours at a desk or on a phone
• Stress and clenching your jaw
• Poor sleep or an unsupportive pillow
• Dehydration and skipped meals
• Driving long distances

Things you can try

1. Move regularly. Get up from your desk every 30–45 minutes.
2. Check your screen height so you’re not looking down all day.
3. Drink water consistently through the day.
4. Notice your jaw. If you clench, try resting your tongue on the roof of your mouth with your teeth slightly apart.
5. Keep a headache diary. Note when they happen and what you were doing. Patterns are useful.

When to see a doctor urgently

Seek medical care straight away for a sudden, severe headache, a headache after a head injury, or a headache with fever, a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision changes or difficulty speaking.

How we help

For headaches that keep coming back, we assess your neck, upper back, jaw and posture, and use a thermal scan to show where your body is under the most stress. If we think something else is going on, we’ll refer you to your GP.

Read more about headache care or book a consultation.

This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice about your own health. If you have severe, worsening or unusual symptoms, please see your GP. Individual results vary.