What it can feel like
- A band of pressure around the head or behind the eyes
- Pain starting at the base of the skull and spreading forward
- Headaches that come with a stiff neck or tight shoulders
- Headaches that are worse after long screen days or poor sleep
Common causes
Stiff neck joints, tight muscles, a forward head posture, stress, dehydration and poor sleep all contribute. Migraine has its own triggers, such as hormones, certain foods and lack of sleep.
How we help
We check whether your neck and posture are contributing. Care may include gentle neck adjustments or mobilisation, soft-tissue release for the neck and shoulders, posture exercises and workstation changes. We will also talk through other triggers and suggest seeing your doctor where appropriate.
How long recovery takes
Many people notice headaches becoming less frequent or less intense over a few weeks. Keeping a simple headache diary helps us see what is working.
Your first visit
Your first consultation takes about 25 to 30 minutes and costs $180 before GST. We listen to your history, examine you, explain what we find and what we recommend, and you decide whether to start care. No referral is needed, and insurance claims are supported.
When to see a doctor urgently
Please see a medical doctor or go to A&E (or call 995 in an emergency) if you have:
- A sudden, severe "worst ever" headache (call 995)
- Headache with fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness or changes in vision or speech
- Headache after a head injury
- A new headache pattern if you are over 50
Frequently asked questions
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes. These are called cervicogenic headaches. Stiff joints and tight muscles at the top of the neck can refer pain into the head.
Can chiropractic help migraines?
Some people with migraine find that treating neck tension reduces how often attacks happen. It is not a cure for migraine, and we work alongside your doctor.
Is neck adjustment safe?
Neck adjustments are generally safe when performed after a proper assessment. We screen for risk factors and can use gentle, low-force techniques instead if you prefer.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Everyone is different, so please speak to one of our doctors about your situation.