Why Many Headaches Come From the Neck

Tension-type and cervicogenic headaches are among the most common recurring headaches, and both have strong connections to the neck and upper back. Cervicogenic headaches originate from the cervical spine joints and muscles and refer pain into the head in predictable patterns. Tension headaches are driven by trigger points in the upper trapezius, suboccipital, and sternocleidomastoid muscles.

Treating the neck is often more effective for these headache types than treating the head itself.

How Chiropractic Helps With Headaches

Chiropractic adjustment of the upper cervical spine is one of the most evidence-supported treatments for cervicogenic headaches. Restoring normal joint mobility in the upper neck reduces the mechanical irritation that generates referred pain into the head. Many patients experience a significant reduction in headache frequency after just a few sessions.

Physiotherapy for Headaches

Physiotherapy addresses the postural and muscular components of headache. This includes manual therapy, trigger point treatment, IMS for deep suboccipital muscles, and corrective exercises for the deep cervical flexors and scapular stabilizers that are commonly weak in people with chronic headaches.

Massage for Headache Relief

Massage therapy targeting the neck, upper back, and scalp is a valuable complement to chiropractic and physiotherapy for headache management. Physiolab offers all three under one roof.

Book Headache Treatment in Vancouver

Available at all four Physiolab Vancouver locations. Direct billing available.

If headaches keep coming back despite medication, the source may be in your neck.

Book a headache treatment assessment at Physiolab in Vancouver. Our team addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms. Book today.

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What Our
Patients Say

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Visited a few physio clinics for the past 5 years around town and honestly nothing beats physiolab's service. I've been suffering from migraines for 2 years now and saw many different physios for it. After seeing Jackson Lam for a few months now, I can happily say I don't suffer from migraines anymore.
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Noor Hussain Ramadhan
★★★★★
I attend Reformotiv for both RMT and Physio and find the treatments to be superb. The craniosacral therapy in particular has been a lifesaver for reducing my migraines.
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Samantha Markham
★★★★★
5 stars for Jacky! After a long road trip I had a super stiff neck with a limited range of motion and headaches. Jacky got me feeling normal again right away. He explained clearly what was going on and gave me some easy homework that continued to help.
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Steve Kwok
★★★★★
Can't say enough good things about Jackson Lam. I'd had chronic pain in my lower back for way too long and after our first few sessions I was pain free for the first time. His easy going nature and broad treatment skills make this the place to go.
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Adam Parent

FAQs

Common questions about headache treatment, how cervicogenic and tension headaches are treated with chiropractic and physiotherapy in Vancouver.
What is a cervicogenic headache?

A cervicogenic headache originates from the cervical spine or neck muscles and refers pain into the head. It is often felt on one side and associated with neck stiffness or pain. It responds well to chiropractic adjustment and physiotherapy.

Can chiropractic treatment cure headaches?

Chiropractic is very effective for cervicogenic and tension-type headaches. Many patients experience dramatic reduction in frequency and severity. Results vary based on headache type and contributing factors.

How many sessions does it take to reduce headache frequency?

Many patients notice improvement within 4 to 6 sessions. Long-standing or complex headache patterns may take longer. Your practitioner will track your response and adjust the plan.

Can physiotherapy help with headaches?

Yes. Physiotherapy addresses trigger points, deep cervical muscle weakness, and postural factors that drive recurring headaches. It is particularly useful for headaches linked to desk work and forward head posture.

What is the difference between a tension headache and a migraine?

Tension headaches are typically bilateral, pressure-like, and associated with muscle tension. Migraines are often unilateral, pulsating, and accompanied by nausea and light or sound sensitivity. Both can have cervical contributions that respond to physiotherapy and chiropractic.

Can massage help reduce headache frequency?

Yes. Massage targeting suboccipital, trapezius, and sternocleidomastoid muscles can significantly reduce tension headache frequency. It works well alongside chiropractic and physiotherapy.

Is headache treatment covered by extended health insurance?

Yes. Physiotherapy and chiropractic for headaches are covered under most extended health plans. Physiolab offers direct billing.

Should I see a doctor before seeing a physiotherapist or chiropractor for headaches?

For new or unusual headaches, particularly those that are severe, sudden onset, or accompanied by neurological symptoms, a medical assessment is advisable first. For long-standing tension or cervicogenic headaches, you can book directly with Physiolab.

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Locations

We are proud to serve multiple convenient locations, ensuring quality physiotherapy care is always within reach.