Understanding Cervical Genic Headaches
- Claire Faragher

- Sep 21
- 2 min read
What Are Cervical Genic Headaches?
Cervical genic headaches are a type of headache that actually starts in the neck. If you notice pain that begins at the base of your skull and sometimes spreads up or around your head, your neck might be to blame. This is pretty common, especially for people who spend a lot of time at a desk, driving, or looking down at devices.

Common Causes in Daily Life
In Camberley and the surrounding area, many people have routines that can put stress on the neck. Some typical causes include:
Poor posture at work or home
Previous neck injuries, such as whiplash
Arthritis or wear-and-tear in the neck joints
Muscle tension from stress
Sitting or standing in one position for long periods

Signs You Might Have a Cervical Genic Headache
Headache that starts at the back of the head or neck
Neck pain or stiffness
Pain that gets worse with certain neck movements
Tenderness in the upper neck or shoulders
Reduced ability to move your neck comfortably
No aura, nausea, light or sound sensitivity with the headache.
How Osteopathy Approaches Cervical Genic Headaches
Osteopathy offers a gentle, hands-on way to help with neck-related headaches. Treatment usually involves:
Careful assessment of your neck movement and posture
Gentle manual therapy to ease joint stiffness and muscle tension
Advice on posture and everyday activities
Simple exercises to support neck mobility and strength
The aim is to address the underlying cause, not just the headache itself. Many people find that with the right support, their headaches become less frequent and less intense.

Living with Neck-Related Headaches in Surrey
If you live or work in Camberley and deal with headaches that seem linked to your neck, you’re definitely not alone. Small changes to posture, regular movement breaks, and gentle exercise can make a real difference. If headaches persist, it might be worth exploring supportive therapies like osteopathy to see if they help.
Further Resources
For more information about headaches, neck pain, and osteopathic approaches, you can visit trusted sources like the NHS website or speak with your GP.




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