Headaches that start in the neck
How headaches linked to the neck differ from other types, what can contribute, general self-care and when to see a doctor.
Some headaches begin in the upper neck and are felt in the back of the head, the temple or behind one eye. These are sometimes called cervicogenic headaches. Headaches have many different causes, so it is worth getting a new or changing pattern of headaches checked by a doctor.
When to get urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E straight away if you have a headache with any of these.
- A sudden, severe headache that reaches full intensity within a minute or so
- Headache with confusion, weakness, speech difficulty, vision loss, facial droop or seizures
- Headache with a stiff neck, high temperature, rash or dislike of bright light
- Headache after a head injury
What it can feel like
- A dull ache that starts at the base of the skull and travels forwards, often on one side
- Pain that is brought on or made worse by certain neck movements or sustained postures
- Neck stiffness or reduced movement alongside the headache
- Headache without the nausea, light sensitivity or visual disturbance typical of migraine
Common contributors
- Sensitivity of the joints and muscles in the upper neck
- Long periods of screen work or driving with the head held forward
- Poor sleep, stress and tension
- Dehydration, skipped meals and too much caffeine, which can contribute to headaches in general
General self-care
These are general comfort measures many people find reasonable. They are not a treatment plan, and what suits one person may not suit another.
- Take regular movement breaks and vary your posture through the day
- Drink water regularly and keep to regular meals and sleep times
- Warmth over the neck and shoulders can feel soothing for some people
- Keep a simple headache diary of when they happen, what you were doing and how long they last. It helps a doctor or osteopath understand the pattern
- Take care with painkillers. Using them on most days can itself lead to more headaches, so ask a pharmacist or GP for advice
When to see your GP
See your GP promptly, or call NHS 111, if you notice any of the following:
- A new headache pattern, particularly if you are over 50
- Headaches that are triggered or made worse by coughing, sneezing, bending or exercise, or that wake you at night
- Jaw pain when eating, a sore or tender scalp, or problems with your vision or eyes
- Headaches that are becoming more frequent or more severe
Consider seeing your GP if:
- Headaches that are new, getting more frequent or changing in character
- You are over 50 and developing headaches for the first time
- Headaches that wake you from sleep or are worse on coughing or straining
How osteopathy may help
Osteopaths regularly see people with headaches that come from the neck (cervicogenic headache). After taking a full history and examining you, treatment typically combines hands-on techniques (such as soft-tissue work, joint mobilisation and, where suitable, manipulation) with advice and exercises you can do yourself. For some people this may help ease pain and stiffness and make movement more comfortable.
A 2026 network meta-analysis of randomised trials found that combined approaches, such as manual therapy together with exercise and other measures, worked better in the short term than single treatments for cervicogenic headache, although the studies were small and varied in quality.
Results vary from person to person, some people feel a little sore for a day or two afterwards, and osteopathic care is not right for everyone. It sits alongside, not instead of, medical care, and staying active and doing your exercises remain central.
If you would like your symptoms assessed, you are welcome to book an appointment. Osteopathic care is not right for everyone, and if something needs medical attention first, I will tell you.
Common questions
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes. Cervicogenic headaches come from structures in the upper neck and are typically felt at the back of the head, sometimes spreading to the temple or behind one eye. Because many different headaches can look similar, a new or changing pattern should be checked by a doctor.
Can taking painkillers cause headaches?
Yes. The NHS lists taking too many painkillers as a common cause of headaches. If you need painkillers on most days, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
Sources and further reading
Links open in a new tab. Sources were checked in October 2026.
- NHS: Headaches
- Koonalinthip et al., European Journal of Pain 2026: Treatments for cervicogenic headache, network meta-analysis
Related guides
This page is general information to help you understand common aches and pains. It is not medical advice and cannot diagnose your problem. If you are worried about your symptoms, please speak to your GP or call NHS 111.