Neck related headaches are headaches that are the result of poor neck posture and
movement. They differ to tension and migraine headaches, which are more common.
Why do they occur?
Who does it affect?
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Management
Outlook
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Why do they occur?
Nerves that arise from the spinal cord in the upper neck are partly responsible for sensations
felt over the head. Problems in the upper neck can be felt as a headache, even though the
fault is actually in the neck.
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Who does it affect?
Neck related headaches are most commonly suffered by people who work at a desk or computer, or who spend a lot of time
driving.
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Symptoms
Pain may be felt anywhere on the head, but common sites include the back of the head, near the ear and above the eye. It may be felt on one or both sides. The headache is normally accompanied by neck pain or comes on after activity such as desk work or driving. It is more prevalent when the neck is held in a poor position. Nausea, blurred vision, light-headedness and fear of light and sound are commonly associated with migraine headaches, but may also be present at mild levels with neck related headaches.
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Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by your physiotherapist based on symptoms and physical findings in the neck that are consistent with a neck related headache.
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Management
Physiotherapy can relieve the headache by correcting joint stiffness, muscle tightness, muscle weakness and faulty posture in the neck.
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Outlook
Provided that the headache is neck related, the prognosis is generally good with a physiotherapy program involving stretching, strengthening and postural correction.
Hasting's physiotherapists will be happy to discuss confidentially any of your concerns. For further assistance please call Hasting's Sports Injury and Physiotherapy Center for an appointment.
This fact sheet is not designed to replace the advice of your health professional.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE PHONE
HASTING SPORTS INJURY AND PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTER
Phone: (02) 6583 2111
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