Headaches are common and can significantly impact work, sleep, and daily life. At Farrelly Chiropractic, we most often see three main types: tension headaches, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches.
Identifying the type of headache you experience is an important first step toward effective care.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common type.
They are often described as a tight, pressure-like or vice-like sensation, usually affecting both sides of the head.
They are commonly associated with:
- Muscle tension
- Stress
- Prologed sitting or poor posture
Migraine Headaches
Migraines typically feel different from tension headaches and are often more severe.
They are commonly described as throbbing or pulsing pain.
Migraines may include:
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or difficulty concentrating
Some people experience visual changes, such as flashing lights or temporary vision disturbances.
Common migraine triggers may include:
- Certain foods or drinks
- Hormonal changes
- Stress or poor sleep
- Bright or flashing lights
Migraine checklist:
- Do they disrupt work, family, or social life?
- Do they last four hours or more?
- Have you had new or unusual headaches in the past six months?
- Does the pain start in your neck?
Answering yes to the first two and no to the third increases the likelihood of migraines.
If pain starts in the neck, spinal factors may be contributing to symptom severity or frequency.
Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches originate from the neck’s joints, muscles, or nerves.
They typically:
Affect one side of the head
Start at the base of the skull
Are aggravated by certain neck movements or pressure
Because these headaches are mechanically driven, neck function often plays a key role.
If neck stiffness or postural strain is contributing to your symptoms, you may also find our Neck Pain page helpful.
If headaches are interfering with your daily life, a thorough assessment can help identify contributing factors and appropriate next steps.
Our chiropractors take the time to understand your symptoms, history, and movement patterns before recommending care.
👉 Book an appointment today to have your headaches properly assessed.
