When Your Neck is the Culprit: Addressing Cervicogenic Headaches Through Upper Cervical Care

Headaches come in many forms—migraines, tension-type, cluster—but one often-overlooked source is cervicogenic headaches, which originate in the neck and radiate upward into the head. These headaches are frequently misdiagnosed or masked with over-the-counter painkillers, offering only temporary relief. The real solution lies not in the head itself, but at the top of the spine.

At Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center, we specialize in identifying and correcting the underlying structural misalignments that contribute to cervicogenic headaches—particularly through upper cervical chiropractic care. If you’ve been chasing relief from recurring head pain with no long-term success, it may be time to look at your neck instead of your head.

What Are Cervicogenic Headaches?

Cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, meaning they’re caused by an issue elsewhere—in this case, the cervical spine (neck). These headaches are usually the result of dysfunction in the joints, muscles, or nerves of the upper neck, especially around the C1 and C2 vertebrae.

Unlike migraines, cervicogenic headaches:

• Often start in the neck or base of the skull and radiate to the forehead or behind the eyes

• Tend to affect one side of the head

• May worsen with specific neck movements or sustained poor posture

• Are frequently accompanied by restricted neck motion or tenderness at the base of the skull

Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can irritate nerves, restrict blood flow, and create muscular tension, all of which contribute to this type of headache.

Why the Upper Cervical Spine Matters

The upper cervical spine—specifically the atlas (C1) and axis (C2)—sits directly beneath the skull and supports the weight of the head. When these vertebrae shift out of alignment, even slightly, it can have a ripple effect on the entire neck and head.

Here’s how upper cervical misalignments can lead to cervicogenic headaches:

✅ Nerve Irritation – Misalignments can compress or irritate the greater occipital nerve, which sends pain signals to the scalp and behind the eyes.
✅ Muscle Compensation – The surrounding muscles must work harder to stabilize the head, leading to tightness, knots, and pain referral patterns.
✅ Reduced Mobility – A misaligned atlas limits normal neck movement, making the area stiff and more prone to discomfort during routine activity.
✅ Postural Distortion – Over time, an uncorrected misalignment causes the head to shift forward, straining the neck and upper back.

How Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Helps

Unlike general spinal adjustments, upper cervical chiropractic care focuses exclusively on precise, gentle correction of the top two vertebrae. These adjustments are:

• Non-invasive and highly targeted

• Performed without forceful twisting or cracking

• Tailored to each patient’s unique alignment and posture

By correcting misalignments in the upper neck, we help restore:

✔ Proper nerve communication between the neck and brain
✔ Improved blood flow and reduced inflammation
✔ Balanced muscle tone, relieving strain and pressure
✔ Normal range of motion, reducing movement-triggered discomfort

The result? Fewer headaches, greater neck comfort, and improved quality of life—often with long-lasting effects.

What to Expect at Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center

When you visit us for cervicogenic headaches, we begin with a thorough evaluation, which may include:

• Postural analysis

• Orthopedic and neurological testing

• 3D imaging or X-rays to assess spinal alignment

• A detailed health history to identify patterns and triggers

Dr. Amanthi Demuth will develop a personalized care plan to gently and gradually restore alignment to your cervical spine, providing lasting relief without drugs or invasive procedures.

We proudly serve residents of Sartell, Saint Cloud, Saint Stephen, Sauk Rapids, Saint Joseph, Waite Park, Collegeville, Rice, and nearby areas, helping people reclaim their health by addressing the true source of their pain.

Still Reaching for Headache Relief? It May Be Time to Look Down—at Your Neck

If you’ve tried medications, rest, hydration, and even dietary changes with little or no improvement, cervicogenic headaches may be the missing link. And if your neck is the problem, chiropractic care may be your answer.

📞 Call Demuth Spinal Care & Concussion Center today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Amanthi Demuth and explore how upper cervical chiropractic care can help bring your head—and neck—back into balance.

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.