The Role of Posture in Headache Development

Headaches are a common presentation in physiotherapy, and while they have multiple potential causes, postural dysfunction is frequently implicated. The cervical spine, shoulder girdle, and upper thoracic region are highly interrelated, and when postural control is poor, mechanical stress can provoke or perpetuate headache symptoms.

Cervical Spine Loading And Forward Head Posture:

Sustained forward head posture, often associated with desk work and prolonged screen use, increases compressive and shear forces on the upper cervical segments (C0–C3). This position can sensitise the facet joints and contribute to cervicogenic headaches. The forward translation also places greater demand on the posterior cervical extensor musculature, leading to fatigue and overload.

Muscle Imbalance And Trigger Points: 

Overactivation of superficial muscles such as the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and sternocleidomastoid is common in poor postural control. In contrast, deep cervical flexors and scapular stabilisers are often inhibited or weak. This imbalance can create myofascial trigger points, which are well documented to refer pain into the cranium, temples, and behind the eyes, mimicking tension-type headache patterns.

Physiotherapy Assessment: 

A thorough physiotherapy evaluation will include postural observation, cervical joint mobility testing, muscle length and strength assessment, and workplace ergonomics. It is important to differentiate cervicogenic headache from primary headache disorders (such as migraine), as management strategies may differ.

Evidence Informed Management Can Include: 

• Manual therapy: Cervical mobilisation and soft tissue release have been shown in research to reduce frequency and intensity of cervicogenic headaches.
• Exercise therapy: Specific retraining of the deep neck flexors and scapular stabilisers is effective in restoring muscular balance.
• Postural education: Cueing and motor control retraining help patients maintain neutral alignment during work and daily tasks.
• Ergonomic modification: Optimising screen height, chair support, and break schedules reduces cumulative postural strain.

Take Control Of Your Headaches: 

Posture is rarely the sole cause of headaches, but it is one of the most modifiable factors. By addressing musculoskeletal contributors, physiotherapists can reduce headache burden and restore function.

👉 If you’re tired of letting headaches disrupt your life, now is the time to take action. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards lasting relief.

      

www.physioworks.com.au

Ashgrove - 33664221    Clayfield - 38624544    Sandgate - 32691122

#SandgatePhysioWorks #AshgrovePhysioWorks #ClayfieldPhysioWorks #PW #Health #Headaches #Posture #NeckHeadache #CervicogenicHeadache #NeckPhysio #HeadachePhysio #PosturalCorrection

References: 

• Jull G, Trott P, Potter H, et al. A randomized controlled trial of exercise and manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache. Spine. 2002;27(17):1835–1843.
• Bogduk N. Cervicogenic headache: anatomic basis and pathophysiologic mechanisms. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2001;5(4):382–386.
• Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Cuadrado ML, Pareja JA. Myofascial trigger points, neck mobility and forward head posture in tension-type headache patients. Cephalalgia. 2007;27(5):418–425.
• Jull G, Stanton W. Predictors of responsiveness to physiotherapy management of cervicogenic headache. Cephalalgia. 2005;25(3):198–204.
• Zito G, Jull G, Story I. Clinical tests of musculoskeletal dysfunction in the diagnosis of cervicogenic headache. Man Ther. 2006;11(2):118–129.