Cervicogenic and Tension Headaches
Headache Chiropractor in Heidelberg
Frequent headaches can make it hard to concentrate, work, and enjoy daily life. At True Chiropractic, we assess what is contributing to your headaches and work with you on a plan to help reduce their frequency and impact.
Same-week appointments available • Thorough assessment • Same chiropractor each visit
Understanding your condition
What Type of Headaches Do Chiropractors Assess?
Headaches are one of the most common conditions we see at True Chiropractic. There are many different types, and identifying which type you are experiencing is a critical first step in determining whether chiropractic care is appropriate for you.
Chiropractors are particularly well-placed to assess and manage cervicogenic headaches — headaches that originate from the structures of the neck — and tension-type headaches, which are often associated with muscle tightness in the shoulders and upper back.
At True Chiropractic, we take a thorough history and conduct a detailed assessment to understand what is contributing to your headaches before recommending any care.
Common causes
What Can Contribute to Headaches?
Headaches related to the neck and musculoskeletal system often have identifiable contributing factors. Understanding yours is an important part of managing them effectively.
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Cervical Joint Restriction
Restricted movement in the upper cervical joints is a common driver of cervicogenic headaches, often producing pain that refers into the head and behind the eyes.
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Muscle Tension
Tightness in the suboccipital, neck, and shoulder muscles can refer pain into the head and contribute to tension-type headaches, particularly with prolonged desk work.
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Poor Posture and Screen Use
A forward head position sustained over many hours loads the upper cervical spine and can be a significant contributing factor in both cervicogenic and tension-type headaches.
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Sleep Position
An unsupported neck position during sleep can create sustained strain on the upper cervical joints and muscles, contributing to headaches present on waking.
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Jaw Tension and Clenching
Clenching or grinding the teeth places significant load on the jaw muscles and upper cervical region, which can be a contributing factor in recurring headaches.
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Previous Neck Injury
A history of whiplash or other neck injury can leave lasting changes in joint mobility and muscle function that contribute to ongoing or recurrent headaches.
Signs and symptoms
How These Headaches Can Present
Cervicogenic and tension-type headaches often share overlapping features. Common presentations we see at True Chiropractic include:
- Headache pain that starts at the base of the skull and moves forward
- Pain behind one or both eyes
- A dull, pressing sensation across the forehead or around the head
- Neck stiffness or soreness accompanying the headache
- Headaches that worsen with sustained postures or screen use
- Headaches present on waking or building throughout the day
- Sensitivity to light or sound in some cases
- Headaches that have become more frequent or harder to manage over time
Seek immediate medical attention if: your headache is sudden and severely intense, is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, vision changes, weakness in the arms or legs, or follows a head injury. These may indicate a condition requiring urgent medical assessment.
How we approach your care
What Chiropractic Care for Headaches May Involve
After a thorough assessment to identify the type and contributing factors of your headaches, your chiropractor will explain their findings and what they recommend. Care may include:
- Cervical manipulation or mobilisation to address restricted upper cervical joints that may be contributing to headache symptoms
- Soft tissue therapy targeting tight muscles in the neck, suboccipital region, and shoulders
- Therapeutic exercise to improve neck strength, endurance, and postural control
- Postural and ergonomic advice to address screen habits, workstation setup, and sleep position
- Education and self-management strategies including lifestyle factors that may be contributing to headache frequency
Your first visit
What to Expect at True Chiropractic
Your first appointment is focused on understanding what is driving your headaches and giving you clarity on your options. A typical new patient visit includes:
- Detailed case history including headache frequency, location, duration, triggers, and any associated symptoms
- Thorough physical assessment including cervical range of motion, joint assessment, postural analysis, and neurological screening where appropriate
- Clear explanation of findings including what type of headache you may be experiencing and whether chiropractic care is appropriate
- Care plan and first treatment if appropriate and agreed upon after the assessment
Frequent headaches are worth getting assessed. Most patients are seen within the same week.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a chiropractor help with headaches?
Chiropractors are trained to assess and manage cervicogenic and tension-type headaches. A thorough assessment helps determine whether your headaches may be related to the neck and whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your presentation.
What is a cervicogenic headache?
A cervicogenic headache originates from structures in the cervical spine, including the joints, muscles, and nerves of the upper neck. It typically presents as one-sided head pain starting at the base of the skull that may refer forward toward the eye or forehead.
Can chiropractic care help with migraines?
Migraines are a complex neurological condition. While some people with migraines also have cervical involvement that may benefit from chiropractic care, chiropractors do not treat migraines directly. Your assessment will help clarify what type of headache you are experiencing and what care options are appropriate.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No referral is required. You can book directly online or by phone. If your GP has referred you under a Chronic Disease Management plan you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on a limited number of visits.
Do you accept private health insurance?
Yes. We have HICAPS on-site so you can claim on the spot. Chiropractic is generally covered under Extras cover. Check with your fund before your visit to confirm your entitlements and any applicable waiting periods.
Frequent Headaches Are Worth Investigating
Same-week appointments available. Same chiropractor, every single visit.
Click here to see other conditions that we treat at our Heidelberg clinic
Important: The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for professional health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual presentations vary and chiropractic care may not be appropriate for all conditions. True Chiropractic complies with AHPRA guidelines for health practitioner advertising.