Headaches and Posture: What's the Connection?

Not every headache comes from the neck, but many do. The upper neck shares nerve connections with the head and scalp, so when the joints and muscles at the top of the neck are tight or restricted, the discomfort can travel upward. That is why posture plays a bigger role than many people expect.

Two common headache types are closely tied to the neck. Tension headaches feel like a tight band around the head and often build through the workday, frequently alongside neck and shoulder tension, screen time, stress and jaw clenching. Cervicogenic headaches start at the base of the skull or neck and spread toward the head, and they are often linked to how the upper neck moves.

Forward head posture is a common contributor. Hours of looking at a low screen leave the neck and upper back muscles holding tension, and over time that can feed both neck stiffness and headaches. Improving posture and screen position, and taking regular breaks, can help some people.

Because the head and neck are connected, an evaluation for frequent headaches should include the neck. Dr. Gregory Martin takes a careful history and then looks at how the neck moves and where it is restricted. If the neck is clearly contributing, chiropractic care may help some patients by easing strain and improving mobility. It is not a guarantee, and serious headache types should be ruled out first.

Some headaches need medical attention right away. Get urgent care for a sudden, severe headache, a 'worst headache of your life,' or one with fever and a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, or vision changes. See a doctor if headaches wake you from sleep, keep getting worse or more frequent, or follow a new pattern, especially after age 50.

Dr. Greg has practiced since 1996 and sees patients at his office in Sparta, New Jersey. If headaches are a regular part of your week, an evaluation that includes the neck is a reasonable place to start.