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Neck pain and headaches

Physiotherapy for a stiff, sore neck and for headaches that start in the neck, jaw or shoulders.

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Physio for headaches? Yes.

Your neck, jaw, shoulders and posture are closely linked to some types of headache. Stiff neck joints, tight muscles, long hours at a desk and arthritis in the neck can all play a part. If you live with regular headaches or a stiff, sore neck, physiotherapy is worth considering.

The World Health Organization notes that headache disorders are under-recognised and under-treated, and they can affect work, sleep and social life.

Headaches physio can help with

Cervicogenic headache

Starts in the neck. Usually a dull ache on one side of the head, often with neck or shoulder stiffness.

Tension-type headache

A tight, dull ache around the head, often with tender neck and shoulder muscles. Stress is a common trigger.

Migraine

A complex neurological condition. Physiotherapy can be part of a wider plan with your GP, especially when neck pain or tension is involved.

Neck pain and stiffness

From posture, strain, sleeping awkwardly, injury or arthritis. Often comes with shoulder or upper back pain.

A physiotherapist performing dry needling on a patient’s back
Dry needling the neck and shoulder muscles can be part of treatment.

How we treat it

  • gentle mobilisation of stiff neck and upper back joints
  • release of tight neck, shoulder and jaw muscles
  • posture advice, including your desk set-up and sleeping position
  • exercises to strengthen and support your neck
  • dry needling or taping, as part of the overall plan
  • treatment for dizziness linked to the inner ear or neck, where appropriate
  • relaxation and breathing strategies to ease muscle tension

We start with a full assessment of your symptoms, posture and movement, and ask what you have already tried.

See a doctor urgently if

your headache is sudden and severe, comes after a head injury, or comes with fever, a stiff neck, confusion, weakness, numbness, vision changes or trouble speaking. Call 000 in an emergency.

Common questions

Can physiotherapy help migraines?

It can help when neck pain, stiffness or muscle tension are part of the picture, usually alongside care from your GP. Your physio will explain what is likely to help in your case.

Do I need a referral?

No. Private patients can book straight in.

This information is general in nature. Please consider your own circumstances and get personal advice from a health professional.