Headaches From Spinal Misalignment | Chiropractor Explains

Your spine plays a central role in supporting your nervous system. When the vertebrae in your neck (cervical spine) are out of alignment, it can put pressure on nearby nerves, limit blood flow, and create muscle tension. These issues often lead to what are known as cervicogenic headaches, a type of headache that originates in the neck but is felt in the head or behind the eyes.

Common signs your headaches may be spinal-related include:

Pain that starts in the neck or base of the skull
Stiffness or soreness in the upper back or shoulders
Headaches triggered by certain movements or postures
Pain that worsens with long periods of sitting or screen use
A dull, achy feeling that spreads from the neck to the forehead or temples

Several common headache types may be related to spinal misalignment or nerve irritation:

Tension Headaches

The most common type, often caused by tight muscles and poor posture. Misaligned vertebrae can contribute to ongoing muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.

Cervicogenic Headaches

These start in the neck and radiate to the head. They are often misdiagnosed as migraines or general tension headaches.

Migraines

While migraines have multiple triggers, spinal misalignment can be a contributing factor by irritating the nerves and muscles around the upper spine.

Chiropractic treatment for headaches focuses on correcting the spinal misalignments and soft tissue tension that may be contributing to your symptoms. At Urteaga Chiropractic, Dr. Manuel Urteaga creates individualized care plans based on a thorough assessment of your posture, alignment, and neurological function.

Here’s how chiropractic care can help:

Spinal Adjustments

Realigning the cervical vertebrae can relieve nerve pressure, reduce muscle strain, and restore normal function to the upper spine.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Massage and muscle release techniques reduce tension in the neck and shoulders that may be triggering headaches.

Posture Correction

We evaluate your posture—especially if you sit for long hours at work—and teach corrective movements to reduce spinal stress.

Nervous System Support

Adjustments help the nervous system function more efficiently, which may reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches over time.

While chiropractic care addresses the root cause, there are things you can do at home to reduce headache frequency and severity:

Maintain good posture while working or using devices
Take frequent breaks from sitting or screen time
Stay hydrated and limit caffeine
Stretch your neck and shoulders regularly
Use a supportive pillow that keeps your spine aligned while sleeping

Combining these habits with regular chiropractic care can significantly reduce or even eliminate recurring headaches for many patients.

Can poor posture cause headaches?

Yes. Slouching or forward head posture puts strain on the neck and upper back, which can lead to muscle tension and headaches over time.

How do I know if my headaches are spinal-related?

If your headaches are accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, or are triggered by certain positions or movements, spinal misalignment may be a factor.

Is it safe to get adjusted for headaches?

Yes. Chiropractic adjustments are safe and non-invasive when performed by a licensed provider like Dr. Urteaga.

Do I need imaging before treatment?

In most cases, a physical exam is enough. If needed, we can refer you for imaging to rule out more serious conditions.

How quickly will I feel relief?

Some patients feel improvement after their first few sessions, while others may need several weeks of care depending on the severity and duration of symptoms.