Neck-Related Headache Treatment in Tenby, Pembrokeshire

Understanding Headaches

Headaches can have many different causes. In some people, headache symptoms may be associated with pain, stiffness or sensitivity in the neck and upper back.

These are often described as neck-related headaches, and in some cases may be diagnosed as cervicogenic headache,  a headache arising from structures in the neck.

Symptoms may develop gradually and can sometimes become more noticeable after prolonged desk work, computer use, driving or other activities that keep the neck in one position for long periods.

Common Factors Associated With Neck-Related Headaches

• Prolonged desk or computer work
• Extended periods using phones or other devices
• Neck and shoulder muscle tension or sensitivity
• Reduced or painful neck movement
• Sustained working or sitting positions
• Stress and fatigue
• Previous neck injury

When to Seek Help

A musculoskeletal assessment may be appropriate if you experience:

• Headaches associated with neck pain or stiffness
• Pain beginning around the neck or base of the skull and spreading into the head
• Headaches that appear to be aggravated by certain neck movements or sustained positions
• Reduced or uncomfortable neck movement
• Recurring headaches that interfere with work, sleep or everyday activities

Seek urgent medical attention for a sudden or unusually severe headache, particularly if it is accompanied by new neurological symptoms, confusion, loss of consciousness, significant visual disturbance or fever. A significant change in your usual headache pattern should also be medically assessed.

How We Assess Headaches

At Tenby Health, your initial consultation may include:

• Case history - understanding how your headaches developed, their pattern and how they are affecting you
• Medical history - reviewing relevant medical conditions, medications, previous injuries and other factors that may influence your symptoms
• Physical examination - assessing neck and spinal movement, muscle and joint function and neurological function
• Blood pressure and neurological testing - where appropriate, to help identify features that may require medical investigation
• Cranial nerve examination - when clinically indicated, examination of the nerves supplying the head and neck

The aim is not simply to assume that your headache is coming from your neck, but to determine whether there is a musculoskeletal component and whether treatment with us is appropriate.

How We Can Help

Where your examination indicates that your headaches have a musculoskeletal component, treatment may include:

• Manual Therapy - techniques such as joint mobilisation, spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapy ,when clinically appropriate
• Rehabilitation exercises - exercises designed to improve neck and shoulder strength, movement and control
• Movement and ergonomic advice - practical guidance to help make workstations and everyday activities more comfortable
• Exercise prescription - ranging from simple mobility exercises to progressive strengthening programmes
• Self-management advice - helping you understand your symptoms and giving you practical strategies to manage them between appointments
• Referral when needed - if your symptoms suggest that medical assessment or further investigation is required, we will advise you and can provide information for your GP

Why Choose Tenby Health?

• Comprehensive assessment - looking beyond the painful area to understand the possible causes and contributing factors
• Evidence-informed care - treatment recommendations based on current clinical evidence and professional guidance
• Individualised treatment plans - treatment and rehabilitation are tailored to your examination findings, goals and circumstances
• Joined-up care - if your headache does not appear to be musculoskeletal, or further medical investigation is appropriate, we will explain this clearly and recommend the appropriate next step
• Local expertise – providing musculoskeletal assessment and treatment for patients across Pembrokeshire and the surrounding areas

If recurring headaches are accompanied by neck pain, stiffness or restricted movement, book an initial consultation to find out whether a musculoskeletal problem could be contributing to your symptoms.