Medically reviewed by M. Thurairaj, Registered physiotherapist. · Last reviewed June 2026.
How to recognise them
Cervicogenic headaches are typically felt on one side, often starting at the back of the head or neck and spreading forward, and they tend to come with neck stiffness or be triggered by neck movements or sustained postures. They are common in people with desk-related neck tension. Because headaches have many causes, it is worth having a doctor confirm what is going on, especially the first time.
What tends to help
Since the neck drives the pain, the same things that ease neck tension often help: better screen height, regular movement breaks, gentle neck mobility and addressing posture. Managing stress, which adds to neck tension, helps too. Improving the neck contributing factors is usually more effective than just treating the headache when it appears.
Where massage can help
Because these headaches come from the neck, massage to the neck, upper shoulders and base of the skull can ease the muscular tension driving them, and many people find this reduces their headaches as part of a wider approach. If headaches are severe, sudden, frequent, or come with neurological symptoms like vision or speech changes, weakness or numbness, see a doctor promptly rather than relying on massage.
Key takeaways
- Some headaches are driven by the neck (cervicogenic)
- They are often one-sided with neck stiffness
- Addressing the neck often reduces them
- Severe, sudden or neurological headaches need a doctor
Frequently asked questions
Can neck problems really cause headaches?
Yes. The upper neck joints and muscles can refer pain into the head, producing cervicogenic headaches, which often come with neck stiffness and respond to addressing the neck.
When should I see a doctor about headaches?
See a doctor for severe, sudden or frequent headaches, a clear change in pattern, or any with vision, speech, weakness or numbness, rather than relying on massage.