A research study published by the American Headache Society in 2021 noted the likely connection between migraines and some types of neck pain.
This is not new information for our pain management team, led by John S. Michels, MD, at ISP Health in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. Our team specializes in highly effective nonsurgical solutions for chronic pain conditions, including neck and migraine pain, that make life challenging.
Here’s what you should know about the connection between migraines and neck pain and how we can help.
Migraines are a neurological condition typically involving severe headaches, often accompanied by numerous other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
A migraine attack can last a few hours to several days. Chronic migraines occur 15 days a month or more. Episodic migraines are less frequent, occurring once a month, once a week, or up to 14 days a month.
Neck pain can range from a stabbing, burning pain to a persistent aching stiffness that may be related to:
Neck stiffness and pain are also very common components of migraines. Research showed that 89% of people with migraine also reported neck pain, often listing it as a warning sign (prodrome) of a developing headache.
It’s not always clear if neck pain is a cause or a result of migraines. For instance, poor posture can lead to muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders that radiates into the head. This may act as a migraine trigger or exacerbate existing migraine symptoms.
The neck and head also share common nerve pathways, particularly the trigeminal-cervical complex. Irritation or inflammation in the neck can activate these pathways, potentially leading to a migraine.
Chronic conditions that can irritate and compress nerves as they exit the cervical spine (neck) include degenerative disc disease, facet joint syndrome, and spinal stenosis.
At ISP Health, we excel at treating both headaches and neck pain, giving our team a unique perspective regarding the link between these common conditions. Your initial evaluation includes a careful review of your medical history and symptoms.
If you’re struggling with neck pain before, during, or after migraines, we may suggest further investigation to pinpoint the source. Addressing the underlying causes of neck pain can significantly affect migraine management.
Treatment strategies our team may recommend based on evaluation results include:
Call our office today to schedule an appointment at ISP Health, where you receive award-winning specialty care focused on managing chronic pain.
