Headache Treatment in Winnipeg

Not all headaches are the same, but many of the ones we help with start in the neck. Cervicogenic and tension-type headaches are driven by the joints and muscles of the upper cervical spine, often fed by the same stiff mid-back and desk posture that cause neck pain. When the headache has a neck-based source, treating the neck can reduce both frequency and intensity.

How we assess it

We screen upper cervical mobility, the sub-occipital and deep neck flexor muscles, thoracic posture, and the movement patterns that provoke your symptoms. This helps distinguish a neck-driven (cervicogenic) or tension-type headache, which respond well to care here, from headache types that need medical management.

How we treat it

For cervicogenic headache, the strongest evidence supports manual therapy combined with therapeutic exercise; a landmark trial found manipulative therapy and specific exercise each reduced headache frequency and intensity, with effects sustained at one year [10][11]. Evidence-based chiropractic guidelines support manual therapy for both cervicogenic and episodic tension-type headache [12]. Our plans combine hands-on cervical and thoracic care with a targeted exercise progression, dosed so tissue adapts rather than flares.

What to expect

If your headaches are neck-driven, many patients notice fewer and less intense episodes over a course of active care. We also address the daily postural loads that keep them coming back.

When to seek urgent care

A sudden worst-headache-of-your-life, headache with fever or stiff neck, headache after head trauma, or new neurological symptoms (vision loss, weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking) require immediate medical attention.

Learn more

Explore our chiropractic services, read about neck pain in Winnipeg, browse the exercise library, or find our clinic. Wondering if your headaches are coming from your neck? Book an assessment when it suits you.

References

  1. Jull G, et al. A randomized controlled trial of exercise and manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2002;27(17):1835-1843.
  2. Chaibi A, Russell MB. Manual therapies for cervicogenic headache: a systematic review. J Headache Pain. 2012;13(5):351-359.
  3. Bryans R, et al. Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2011;34(5):274-289.