Types of headaches we commonly help

Tension-type headaches feel like a band or pressure around the head and are linked to tight neck, shoulder and scalp muscles, stress and long hours at a screen. Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck: pain begins at the base of the skull, often on one side, and spreads to the forehead or behind the eye, usually with neck stiffness. Some people with migraines also have neck tension that can trigger or worsen an attack; for them we work alongside their medical doctor.

Common symptoms

  • Pressure or a tight band around the forehead or head
  • Pain starting at the base of the skull and spreading upward
  • Headaches that worsen with screen time, driving or stress
  • Neck stiffness and tight shoulders with the headache
  • Headaches triggered by certain neck positions or sleeping posture

Common triggers

  • Forward-head posture at a desk or on a phone
  • Stiff joints in the upper neck
  • Stress, poor sleep and jaw clenching
  • Dehydration and skipped meals
  • A recent neck injury, including whiplash

How we help

We examine your neck, upper back, jaw and posture to see whether they are contributing to your headaches. Your plan may include:

Chiropractic adjustmentsGentle adjustments to the upper neck and upper back to restore motion and ease tension.Therapeutic massageReleases tight muscles at the base of the skull, neck and shoulders.AcupunctureFine-needle therapy that many patients use for tension and headache relief.High-intensity laserNon-invasive light therapy for tight, painful neck muscles.Electrotherapy (EMS / ultrasound)Relaxes muscles and eases pain alongside other care.Posture and corrective exerciseDeep neck and shoulder exercises that reduce headache triggers.

What to expect

At your first visit we take a detailed headache history (where, how often, what triggers it) and examine your neck and nerves. We will refer you to your medical doctor if anything suggests a cause outside chiropractic care. Keeping a simple headache diary while under care helps us see whether headaches are becoming less frequent and less intense.

Everyday tips that help

  • Set your screen at eye level and take short breaks every 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Drink water through the day and do not skip meals.
  • Relax your jaw: lips together, teeth apart.
  • Keep a regular sleep schedule and a pillow that keeps your neck level.

Related reading: neck pain and auto accident injuries.

When to get help right away

Seek emergency care for a sudden, severe “worst ever” headache, a headache with fever and stiff neck, confusion, weakness, vision or speech changes, or a headache after a head injury.

Common questions

Can a chiropractor help with headaches?

For tension-type and neck-related (cervicogenic) headaches, chiropractic care, massage and posture exercise can help reduce how often and how strongly they occur. We examine you first to confirm your headaches suit this type of care.

Do you treat migraines?

We do not treat migraine as a disease, but many migraine sufferers have neck and shoulder tension that can trigger attacks. We address that tension and coordinate with your medical doctor.

How quickly will my headaches improve?

Many patients notice fewer or milder headaches within a few weeks. A headache diary helps us track your progress.

What is a cervicogenic headache?

It is a headache that comes from the neck. Pain usually starts at the base of the skull, often on one side, and spreads forward, with neck stiffness.

Is acupuncture good for headaches?

Many patients use acupuncture for tension and headache relief. Dr. Erica Man, our chiropractic physician certified in acupuncture, can tell you whether it suits you.

This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Every patient starts with a history and examination, and we refer to other specialists when a condition falls outside chiropractic care.