Headaches and Migraines: Could Your Neck Be the Real Cause?
Headaches and migraines are among the most common health complaints worldwide, and they affect thousands of people in Cardiff every year. According to the NHS, almost everyone will experience a headache at some point in their life, but for some people, they become frequent, debilitating, and difficult to manage. While many people blame stress, dehydration, or diet, one often-overlooked cause is your neck and posture.
The Link Between the Neck and Headaches
The neck, or cervical spine, is made up of seven vertebrae supported by muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Poor posture, stress, or injuries can irritate these structures, leading to a type of headache known as a cervicogenic headache. Unlike migraines, which are neurological in origin, cervicogenic headaches are referred pain from dysfunction in the neck. Symptoms often include:
- Pain on one side of the head or face
- Stiffness in the neck or shoulders
- Headache triggered by certain movements or positions
- Pain that improves after neck treatment or stretching
Research published by the British Chiropractic Association shows that poor posture, especially from sitting at a desk or looking down at mobile devices, can significantly contribute to headaches and neck tension.
Common Triggers of Neck-Related Headaches
- Tech Neck – Looking down at a phone or laptop for long periods puts extra strain on the neck muscles.
- Stress and Tension – Emotional stress often causes people to clench their jaw or hunch their shoulders, leading to tightness in the neck.
- Whiplash or Injury – Car accidents and sports injuries can damage soft tissue and irritate cervical joints.
- Poor Sleep Posture – Sleeping without proper pillow support can place the neck in awkward angles, leading to morning headaches.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
At The Cardiff Chiropractor, Andy Davies uses a hands-on approach to address the root causes of neck-related headaches. Treatments may include:
- Gentle spinal adjustments to improve cervical mobility
- Soft tissue therapy to release muscle tightness
- Dry needling to target deep tension in neck and shoulder muscles
- Posture coaching to reduce strain on the neck during daily activities
By improving how your neck and spine function, chiropractic care often reduces both the frequency and intensity of headaches.
👉 Learn more about headache relief with a Cardiff chiropractor
Self-Help Tips for Reducing Headaches
- Take regular breaks if you sit at a desk
- Ensure your computer screen is at eye level
- Drink enough water throughout the day
- Use a supportive pillow for better sleep posture
- Manage stress with breathing exercises or mindfulness
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience headaches more than once a week, have sudden severe headaches, or notice changes in vision or coordination, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. The NHS provides excellent guidance on when to seek urgent care for headaches.
FAQs About Chiropractic and Headaches
Can chiropractic cure migraines? Chiropractic does not “cure” migraines but may reduce triggers by improving posture, neck mobility, and muscle balance.
How quickly will I feel results? Many patients notice relief after just a few treatments, although chronic headaches may take longer.
Is chiropractic safe for headaches? Yes, treatments are safe, non-invasive, and tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, the cause may be closer than you think — your neck. Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free way to address neck dysfunction and relieve headache pain.
👉 Find out more about headache relief chiropractor in Cardiff
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External resource: NHS – Headaches
