Neck Pain Headache: Cervical vs Migraine Explained

Can Neck Pain Cause Headache? Cervical vs Migraine Explained

Introduction

Many adults experience neck pain + headache together.
This is often due to cervical nerves, not migraine.

Netter’s Anatomy shows that C2–C3 nerves refer pain to the head.

What Is Cervical Headache?

Occurs when neck joints + muscles irritate upper cervical nerves.

Symptoms:

• Back-of-head pain
  
• Neck stiffness
  
• Shoulder tightness
  
• Headache worse with neck movement

What Is Migraine Headache?

Migraine is neurological — involving trigeminal nerve pathways.

Symptoms:

• One-sided pain
  
• Throbbing
  
• Nausea
  
• Light & sound sensitivity

Cervical vs Migraine – Difference Chart

Feature	Cervical	Migraine
Pain area	Back of head	One side
Trigger	Neck movement	Light, stress
Nausea	Rare	Common
Stiffness	Yes	No

Conclusion

Both cervical headache and migraine are different conditions. Proper identification leads to better treatment and long-term relief.