Headaches can present in different ways depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• Dull, aching pain around the head

• Tightness or pressure across the forehead or temples

• Pain at the base of the skull

• Headaches linked to neck tension or stiffness

• Discomfort that worsens with stress or prolonged sitting

• Sensitivity to movement or sustained positions

Symptoms may vary and can change depending on activity levels and contributing factors.

Headaches are often linked to a combination of physical and lifestyle factors. Common influences include:

• Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders

• Poor posture, especially during desk-based work

• Stress or fatigue

• Prolonged screen use

• Reduced movement or activity

• Joint irritation in the neck

• In some cases, headaches may be related to how the neck joints and surrounding muscles are functioning.

These are some of the most common patterns people experience:

Why do I get headaches from sitting at a desk?
Prolonged sitting and screen use can lead to muscle tension and strain in the neck and shoulders, which may contribute to headaches.

Why do headaches start in the neck?
Tension or restriction in the neck joints and muscles can refer pain into the head, particularly at the base of the skull.

Why do headaches keep coming back?
Recurring headaches are often linked to ongoing factors such as posture, stress, workload or movement habits that have not been fully addressed.

Why are headaches worse at the end of the day?
Fatigue, prolonged posture and accumulated muscle tension throughout the day can contribute to increased symptoms.

Some headaches improve over time, particularly when contributing factors such as stress or posture change.

However, recurring headaches may continue if underlying causes are not addressed. Patterns can develop over time, leading to more frequent or persistent symptoms.

Gentle movement, posture awareness and managing contributing factors can often help reduce symptoms.

At your first appointment, you will receive a structured assessment to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms. This typically includes:

• A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history

• Assessment of neck movement, posture and function

• Identification of lifestyle, work or activity-related factors

• You will be given a clear explanation of findings and a plan tailored to your situation.

Where appropriate, management may include hands-on techniques, movement advice and a simple exercise plan to support recovery and improve function.

Many headaches — particularly tension-type and cervicogenic headaches — have a musculoskeletal component. Osteopaths assess how the neck, upper back and surrounding muscles are functioning, as restriction or tension in these areas can directly contribute to headache patterns.

Treatment is hands-on and tailored to your assessment findings. It may include:

• Soft tissue techniques to release tension in the neck and shoulders

• Joint mobilisation of the cervical and upper thoracic spine

• Postural assessment and advice, particularly for desk-based work

• Specific exercises to improve neck strength and movement

• Lifestyle and ergonomic guidance to reduce contributing factors

The aim is to address the physical factors driving your headaches rather than simply managing symptoms as they occur.

While many headaches are not serious, urgent medical attention should be sought if you experience:

• Sudden, severe headache with no clear cause

• Headaches following a head injury

• Neurological symptoms such as weakness, confusion or vision changes

• Persistent or worsening headaches

• Headaches associated with unexplained weight loss

• Changes in headache pattern or frequency

What causes headaches?
Headaches are commonly linked to muscle tension, posture, stress, fatigue or joint irritation in the neck.

Can headaches go away on their own?
Some headaches improve over time, although recurring headaches may persist if contributing factors are not addressed.

When should I see an osteopath for headaches?
You may consider an assessment if headaches persist, worsen, or begin to affect daily activities such as work or concentration.

Can an osteopath help with tension headaches?

Yes. Osteopaths can assess and manage tension-type and cervicogenic headaches — those linked to neck tension, posture or upper spinal function. Treatment focuses on addressing the musculoskeletal factors contributing to your headache pattern.

Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath for headaches?

No. You can self-refer directly to Coventry Osteopathic & Sports Injury Clinic without a GP referral. Book online or call 02476 501923.

If you would like to understand what may be contributing to your headaches and how to manage them, you can book an appointment online or contact the clinic directly.

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You can also explore the full range of conditions we assess and manage here.

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This page has been written and reviewed by our GOsC-registered osteopaths at Coventry Osteopathic & Sports Injury Clinic.