Can a chiropractor help with headaches?

Yes — particularly for cervicogenic headaches (originating in the neck) and tension-type headaches. Research consistently shows that chiropractic treatment is effective for reducing both the frequency and intensity of these headache types. Spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy and dry needling to the neck and upper back address the primary triggers.

How quickly will chiropractic help my headaches?

Many patients notice a reduction in headache frequency and intensity after just 2–3 sessions. For chronic sufferers who've had headaches for years, a structured 6–8 week programme typically produces the most lasting results, with the majority achieving significant long-term reduction in frequency.

Condition · London EC1

Headache & Migraine Treatment in London EC1

Q: What is a cervicogenic headache?

A cervicogenic headache is one that originates in the cervical spine (neck) and is referred to the head. It typically starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward, often mimicking a migraine. It's caused by restricted joints, tight muscles or nerve irritation in the upper neck — and responds very well to chiropractic treatment.

If your headaches start at the base of the skull, worsen with neck movement, or come with shoulder tension — they're likely cervicogenic. That means they have a physical cause that can be treated.

Book Your Appointment → View Treatment

Understanding the Condition

What Causes Headaches?

Not all headaches are created equal. Tension-type headaches — the most common type — are typically caused by sustained muscle contraction in the neck, shoulders and scalp, often driven by stress, poor posture or prolonged screen time. They create a band-like pressure around the head.

Cervicogenic headaches originate in the cervical spine and are referred to the head via the upper cervical nerves. They often mimic migraines but are driven by joint restriction and muscle tension in the neck — which is why treating the neck resolves the headache.

Our Approach

How Chiropractic Helps

For cervicogenic and tension headaches, chiropractic treatment is highly effective. Adjustments to the upper cervical and thoracic spine restore normal joint movement, reduce the nerve irritation that refers pain to the head, and break the muscle-tension cycle that sustains the headache.

Dry needling to the neck, upper trapezius and suboccipital muscles provides powerful relief for chronic tension headache sufferers. Combined with postural advice and home exercises, most patients achieve a significant reduction in both frequency and severity.

What to Expect

Your Path to Fewer Headaches

Assessment

Detailed headache history, cervical and postural assessment to classify your headache type and identify triggers.

Treatment

Cervical adjustments, dry needling and soft tissue therapy targeting the neck, upper back and suboccipital muscles.

Your Plan

Postural correction exercises, ergonomic advice and trigger identification to reduce headache frequency long-term.

Recommended Treatments

What We Use for Headaches

🦴

Common Questions

Headache FAQs

Yes — particularly for cervicogenic and tension-type headaches. Research consistently shows chiropractic is effective for reducing both the frequency and intensity of these types. Spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy and dry needling to the neck and upper back address the primary triggers.

A cervicogenic headache originates in the cervical spine and is referred to the head. It typically starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward, often mimicking a migraine. It's caused by restricted joints, tight muscles or nerve irritation in the upper neck — and responds very well to chiropractic treatment.

Many patients notice a reduction in frequency and intensity after just 2–3 sessions. For chronic sufferers, a structured 6–8 week programme typically produces the most lasting results, with the majority achieving significant long-term reduction in frequency.

Related conditions:

Neck Pain Posture Correction Back Pain

Get Relief Today

Book Your Headache Assessment

Same-day appointments often available. 193 Whitecross Street, London EC1.

Book Now →