Cervicogenic Headaches vs. Migraines: How to Tell the Difference and Find Relief

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints, but not all headaches are the same. Two types that are often confused are cervicogenic headaches and migraines—both of which can be severe, persistent, and debilitating. While they may share similar symptoms, their causes and treatments are very different.

At Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center, we help patients identify the root cause of their headaches and provide targeted chiropractic care to relieve pain at its source. If you've been dealing with frequent headaches and are unsure whether you're experiencing cervicogenic headaches or migraines, this guide will help you understand the differences and find the right path to relief.

What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?

A cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a headache that originates from dysfunction or misalignment in the cervical spine (neck region). Unlike migraines, which are neurological in nature, CGHs stem from issues in the musculoskeletal system—often due to:

✔ Poor posture (especially forward head posture from excessive screen time)
✔ Whiplash or past neck trauma
✔ Spinal misalignment in the upper cervical spine (C1 & C2)
✔ Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
✔ Joint dysfunction in the cervical vertebrae

Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headaches

• Pain starts in the neck and radiates toward the head, often behind one eye

• Pain worsens with neck movement or prolonged sitting

• Restricted neck mobility or stiffness

• Tenderness at the base of the skull

• Pain on one side of the head or face

CGHs are mechanical in nature, meaning they won’t improve with traditional migraine medications—but they respond well to chiropractic adjustments that correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine.

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are a neurological disorder rather than a structural issue. They are caused by abnormal brain activity, vascular changes, and nerve dysfunction, often triggered by:

✔ Hormonal fluctuations
✔ Weather changes or barometric pressure shifts
✔ Food sensitivities (caffeine, alcohol, MSG, processed foods)
✔ Stress and sensory overload (bright lights, loud noises, strong smells)
✔ Poor sleep patterns

Symptoms of Migraines

• Throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head

• Sensitivity to light and sound

• Nausea and vomiting

• Visual disturbances (auras)

• Pain that lasts for hours to days

• Not necessarily linked to neck movement

Because migraines are neurologically based, they require a different approach than cervicogenic headaches—though both can be influenced by upper cervical misalignments.

Key Differences Between Cervicogenic Headaches and Migraines

Feature	Cervicogenic Headache	Migraine
Origin	Neck (cervical spine dysfunction)	Neurological (brain activity, vascular changes)
Pain Location	Starts in the neck, radiates to the head	Usually on one side of the head
Neck Movement	Aggravates pain	No direct impact
Aura	Not present	May experience visual or sensory disturbances
Nausea/Vomiting	Uncommon	Common
Sensitivity to Light/Sound	Mild or none	Strong
Response to Medication	Painkillers may not work	Migraine-specific meds may help
Response to Chiropractic	Very effective	Can help reduce frequency & severity

How Chiropractic Care Provides Targeted Relief

Whether you're experiencing cervicogenic headaches or migraines, chiropractic care can address the underlying causes and reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.

Here’s how:

1. Upper Cervical Adjustments for Cervicogenic Headaches

Since CGHs stem from cervical spine dysfunction, correcting misalignments in the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae is key.

• Removes nerve irritation that contributes to referred pain in the head

• Restores proper joint movement, reducing muscle tension

• Improves posture and spinal mechanics, preventing future headaches

Many CGH patients experience significant relief within a few treatments, as proper spinal function is restored.

2. Chiropractic Care for Migraine Relief

While migraines are neurological, chiropractic care can still help by:

• Improving blood flow to the brain, reducing vascular dysfunction

• Reducing stress on the nervous system, preventing overactive pain signaling

• Correcting postural imbalances, which can be a migraine trigger

• Lowering muscle tension, preventing additional headache triggers

Regular chiropractic adjustments don’t eliminate migraines altogether, but many patients report less frequent and less severe migraine attacks after treatment.

Additional Lifestyle Adjustments for Headache & Migraine Prevention

In addition to chiropractic care, making simple changes in daily habits can help prevent headaches:

✔ Optimize Posture: Maintain proper spine alignment while working, driving, or using devices.
✔ Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger both CGHs and migraines.
✔ Reduce Stress: Incorporate meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
✔ Identify Triggers: Keep a headache diary to track patterns.
✔ Improve Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours per night with proper neck support.

By combining chiropractic care with proactive lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce headache frequency and improve overall well-being.

Why Choose Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center?

Dr. Amanthi Demuth specializes in upper cervical chiropractic care, helping patients find lasting relief from chronic headaches and migraines. Our precise, gentle approach ensures effective treatment without forceful manipulations.

We proudly serve Sartell, Saint Cloud, Saint Stephen, Sauk Rapids, Saint Joseph, Waite Park, Collegeville, Rice, and surrounding communities. If headaches are disrupting your life, let’s find a solution together.

Ready to Find Headache Relief?

If you’re tired of frequent headaches or migraines, it’s time to explore natural, long-term solutions. Contact Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Amanthi Demuth and take control of your health.

📞 Call us now to book your appointment!

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Individual results may vary.