Your headache pattern
Describe where the pain starts, how often it occurs and whether the pattern has changed.
Headaches Related to Neck Pain · Shelton, Connecticut
Headache and neck pain?
Understand the connection.
When head pain accompanies a stiff or uncomfortable neck, understanding the source matters. An individual evaluation helps determine whether your neck is contributing or another medical assessment should come first.
Understand the condition
A neck connection is possible. It needs an evaluation.
A cervicogenic headache is head pain arising from a problem in the neck. Neck pain can also accompany other headache types, so having both symptoms does not establish the diagnosis. The pattern, onset and associated symptoms help guide the next step.
Your neck movement
Note whether certain positions or movements accompany the head pain.
The full picture
Discuss vision changes, nausea, dizziness, injuries and all medications with your clinician.
Your evaluation
Make your visit
about your situation.
Bring a brief symptom diary, relevant imaging reports and information about prior headache care. Dr. Dalfino will review your history and examination findings to determine whether a neck-focused approach is appropriate. Some headaches require assessment by your primary clinician or a specialist.
Explain what you would like to do more comfortably, whether that means work, sleep, exercise or everyday tasks. Your goals help focus the conversation.
Meet Dr. Dalfino →Care planning
Choose the next step
with a clearer picture.
When the neck is a contributor, care may include individually selected movement and exercise strategies. Our services are considered only when appropriate for your findings. This page is not a claim to treat every headache type or replace migraine care.
When to seek prompt medical attention
Call 911 or seek emergency care for a sudden extremely severe headache, or headache with new weakness, trouble speaking, confusion, loss of vision, or fever and a stiff neck. A severe headache following a head injury also needs urgent medical assessment.
Common questions
A little more clarity.
Does neck pain mean my headache comes from my neck?
No. Neck discomfort can accompany more than one headache type. A history and examination help determine whether further medical evaluation is needed.
Is this the same as migraine?
No. Cervicogenic headache and migraine are different diagnoses, although symptoms may overlap. Continue any prescribed headache care and discuss changes with your treating clinician.
What should I track before my appointment?
Record when headaches happen, where they begin, how long they last and any associated symptoms. Include what you were doing and any medications you took.
Related care
Keep exploring.
Meet your doctor
Dr. James J. Dalfino →
Your next step
Start with a conversation.
Leave with a direction.
Schedule an individual consultation and examination at our Shelton center. Bring your questions, your records and the goals that matter to you.
$99 New Patient Special
Consultation, examination, report of findings and first treatment when appropriate.
Schedule My New Patient Visit2 Trap Falls Road, Suite 208 · Shelton, CT 06484
(203) 922-9277
Patient education sources
General educational resources. These organizations do not endorse this practice or its services. Individual recommendations require an examination.