Can a chiropractor help with headaches from the neck?
Chiropractors commonly assess headaches that appear to relate to the neck, sometimes called cervicogenic headaches. At Restored Living, your first visit focuses on understanding what's going on — your headache history, how your neck and upper back move, and whether your findings suggest the neck may be involved. Not every headache relates to the neck. If chiropractic care is appropriate, we'll explain the options; if your headaches need medical review, we'll tell you and help you get it.
What people often describe
- A headache that starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward
- Headaches that come on with neck stiffness or after certain postures
- Pain that is mostly on one side and doesn't swap sides
- Headaches that build through the working day or after a long drive
What we may assess
Every assessment is guided by your presentation. For neck-related headaches it may include:
- A detailed headache history — pattern, frequency, triggers and any warning signs
- How your upper neck and base of the skull move
- Head, neck and shoulder posture, including at your workstation
- Neurological checks, where appropriate
- How neighbouring regions, like the jaw, upper back and shoulders, are moving
Looking beyond the head
Headaches are the starting point — and we take them seriously. Alongside them, we consider posture, structure and movement through the neck, jaw and upper back as parts of the broader picture. Headaches can have many contributors, so understanding your history comes before recommending anything. Read about our approach.
When to seek urgent medical care
Most headaches are not serious, but some need prompt medical attention. Call 000 or go to the nearest emergency department for a sudden, severe headache. Contact your GP or seek urgent care if a headache comes with:
- A "thunderclap" onset — severe pain reaching its peak within seconds to a minute
- Fever, a stiff neck, a rash, or confusion
- A recent head injury, fall or accident
- Weakness, numbness, vision changes, difficulty speaking or loss of balance
- A new or different pattern of headache, particularly if you are over 50
Book a headache assessment
Private studio in Casuarina · Longer initial consultation
Common questions
How do you know if a headache is coming from the neck?
There's no single test. We look at your headache pattern alongside how your neck moves and responds during assessment. If your history points elsewhere, we'll say so and suggest appropriate follow-up.
Do you treat migraines?
Migraine is a distinct condition that is best managed with your GP or neurologist. Some people experience both migraine and neck-related headaches; we can assess the neck component and work alongside your medical care.
Should I keep a headache diary?
It can be helpful. Noting when headaches start, how long they last and what was happening beforehand gives us useful information at your first visit and at reassessment.