Neck pain and headaches from the neck
We are committed to helping you understand what is causing your discomfort or pain
Some headaches start in the neck. These are known as cervicogenic headaches, and osteopathic treatment may help with this type of headache.
Neck pain is another common reason people visit us. Uncomplicated, mechanical neck pain, the kind linked to posture, strain or sleeping in an awkward position, often responds well to hands-on treatment combined with exercise and advice. Acupuncture may also provide short-term relief of chronic neck pain and tension-type headaches, if you’d like to try it.
Below is general information about some common problems in this area. It isn’t a full list. If you’re not sure whether we can help, get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
You don’t need a referral to see an osteopath. You can book an assessment with us directly. At your first visit we’ll examine you, explain what we find and talk through your options. If osteopathy isn’t the right fit for you, we’ll tell you and suggest who can help.
Some problems do need your GP, for example if you need blood tests, scans or medication, or if your symptoms suggest an inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. If we find this, we’ll refer you to your GP or another healthcare professional.
Headache
Headaches come in many forms, each with its own unique challenges. At the clinic, the most common types we encounter are tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck), and migraines.
Tension headaches often feel like tightness or pressure across the forehead, sometimes accompanied by fatigue behind the eyes. These are commonly linked to stress, anxiety, and poor sleep.
Cervicogenic headaches stem from issues in the neck, such as restricted movement in the upper neck joints, which can compress nerves travelling to the head. These headaches typically affect just one side of the head.
Migraines are believed to result from neurological imbalances, though their exact cause isn’t fully understood. Factors such as stress, hormones, sleep patterns, diet, and lifestyle often play a role in triggering them.
Your osteopath will perform a comprehensive assessment, including the head, neck, jaw, and upper back, along with posture and movement evaluations, to identify areas of dysfunction. The type of headache you experience will guide the treatment and management plan tailored to your needs.
Whiplash Type Injuries
Whiplash is an injury caused by sudden, forceful movement of the neck, either back-and-forth or side-to-side. It is most commonly associated with road traffic accidents but can also result from sports injuries or falls.
During a whiplash injury, the neck experiences excessive hyperextension, hyperflexion, and/or rotation, which places strain on the muscles, joints, ligaments, and nerves. This can lead to neck pain and stiffness that may extend to the upper back and arms, and sometimes even headaches. Symptoms of whiplash may not appear immediately; they can develop weeks or even months after the incident.
Temporomandibular Dysfunction (Jaw)
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can be not only painful but also limiting and frustrating.
TMJ disorders often cause discomfort when eating or chewing, and you may find it difficult to fully open your mouth. They can also lead to secondary pain in the neck and head. Additionally, you might experience a clicking sound or grinding sensation when moving your jaw.
Facet Joint Dysfunction
The bones that make up our spine are called vertebrae, and the points where they connect are known as facet joints. These joints can become painful for various reasons, with the most common cause being degeneration. Facet joints bear a significant amount of weight relative to their size, making them vulnerable to strain and injury.
Acute facet joint injury in the neck, often referred to as a "crick neck," can occur following sudden trauma like a sports injury, a car accident, or a fall. Repetitive or minor movements, such as twisting awkwardly in bed or while checking your blind spot while driving, can also irritate and inflame these joints. Physical activities involving lifting and twisting, or sports like gymnastics that involve frequent backward bends and twists, can also lead to facet joint injuries. Sometimes, facet joint pain can arise without any obvious cause.
The most common symptom of facet joint pain is neck pain, but muscle spasms and neurological symptoms like pins and needles may also occur as a result of the injury.
Facet joint pain often responds well to hands-on treatment combined with exercise and advice.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a complex, long-term condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body.
There is no known cure for fibromyalgia, but regular exercise is often helpful in relieving symptoms, although it can be challenging for patients due to the high levels of pain they experience. Fibromyalgia is frequently associated with other conditions, such as headaches and temporomandibular joint disorders.
Our osteopaths recognise that fibromyalgia affects each person differently, so we tailor our treatment and management approach to suit each individual's needs. Our goal is to provide relief, enabling patients to better manage their symptoms and continue with their daily activities as much as possible.
Postural Pain and Occupational Health
While not technically a formal diagnosis, "postural pain" is very common. At A1 Bodyworks Clinic, we see many people experiencing pain related to their work, daily routines, and hobbies. Whether it’s sitting in one position for long periods, doing manual labour on a construction site, or carrying a heavy backpack to school, these activities can lead to discomfort in the body over time.
Postural pain most often affects the upper back, neck, and shoulders, but it can also impact the lower back, pelvis, and even cause headaches.
Our osteopaths can offer treatment to address the physical demands of your daily activities, as well as recommend specific exercises and lifestyle changes to improve and maintain your strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Often described as "wear and tear" of the joint, it can develop at any age, typically following an injury, but is most frequently seen in individuals over 45.
As osteoarthritis progresses, the cartilage within the joint thins, leading to increased friction. While it’s a natural part of the ageing process, many people with osteoarthritis experience no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, individuals often report stiffness, limited range of motion, and pain during activity.
Though there is no cure for osteoarthritis, osteopathy alongside exercise may help ease arthritic pain and stiffness and improve movement.
Rheumatoid arthritis, another form of arthritis, can affect multiple joints at once. If our osteopaths suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis, they will refer you to your GP for a blood test to confirm the diagnosis. While osteopathy can still provide symptom relief for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, it is a more complex condition and typically requires a combined treatment approach with your GP.
Osteopathy for neck pain in Runcorn, Frodsham & Widnes
We understand how much pain or discomfort can disrupt your daily life, and we’re here to help you move forward. By listening to your concerns and tailoring a treatment plan to your needs, our team is dedicated to improving your comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. At A1 Bodyworks Clinic, your wellbeing is always our priority.
