Most headaches are not brain problems. They are neck problems.
The majority of recurrent headaches that walk into a chiropractor's office are cervicogenic, meaning they originate in the upper cervical spine. Tension headaches are close behind. True migraines are a separate animal, but chiropractic co-management can reduce frequency for some patients. The exam tells us which one you have.
Which headache is this?
Cervicogenic headache
Starts at the base of the skull, radiates forward into the temple or behind the eye. Triggered by neck rotation or sustained postures. Often one-sided.
Tension-type headache
A bilateral band-around-the-head sensation. Pressure, not throb. Worse under work stress or during long focused sessions.
Migraine
Throbbing, often one-sided, with nausea, light or sound sensitivity, and sometimes visual aura. Distinct neurologic mechanism; chiropractic is an adjunct, not the primary care.
Post-traumatic headache
Headache that began after a car accident, sports collision, or fall. Needs specific whiplash-pattern evaluation and often clears with focused upper-cervical work.
Upper cervical, suboccipital, and targeted soft tissue.
Pattern history
Frequency, duration, triggers, relieving factors, associated symptoms. Headache diagnosis is 80% history.
Cervical exam
Upper cervical range-of-motion, palpation of the suboccipital region, cervical flexion-rotation test.
Treatment
Specific upper-cervical adjustment (Activator or low-force manual), suboccipital release, trigger-point work where indicated.
Home program
Sleep position, screen height, and two deep neck flexor drills that make an unexpectedly large difference in cervicogenic frequency.
Sudden "worst headache of your life," new headache after age fifty, headache with fever or neurologic deficit, headache after head trauma, or headache with visual changes should be evaluated medically first. Dr. Augello screens for these on the first visit.
Headache questions.
Can a chiropractor help my headaches?
It depends on the type. Cervicogenic headaches, which originate in the upper cervical spine, respond very well to chiropractic care. Tension-type headaches also commonly improve with adjustment plus trigger-point and soft-tissue work. Migraines are more variable; some patients benefit significantly, others do not. We work alongside your neurologist rather than replacing them.
What is a cervicogenic headache?
A cervicogenic headache is a headache that originates in the upper cervical spine, typically the C0 through C3 region. The pain often starts at the base of the skull and radiates forward into the temple, forehead, or behind the eye. Neck rotation or sustained postures commonly trigger it.
Will you work with my neurologist?
Yes. For migraines in particular, chiropractic care is a complement to, not a replacement for, neurologic care. Dr. Augello communicates with your neurologist on request and documents care in a way that supports a coordinated plan.
How long before I see a difference?
For cervicogenic headaches, meaningful reduction in frequency or intensity is often seen within 4 to 8 visits. Chronic tension patterns typically need longer, 8 to 12 visits, paired with postural and exercise work. Migraines are evaluated over a 6 to 10 week trial because their frequency varies.
Are there red flags that mean I need a doctor first?
Yes. A sudden severe headache (the worst of your life), a new pattern of headache, headaches with fever or vision changes, headaches with progressive neurologic symptoms, or headaches after head injury all warrant medical evaluation first. Dr. Augello screens for these on the first visit and refers when they are present.
Stop waiting out the next one.
If your headache pattern is recurrent, an exam is worth an hour. Book one.