Neck-Related (Cervicogenic) Headache Treatment in Marple
Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck and refer pain to the head, often with stiffness. We ease the neck and address the posture and mechanics causing them at our Marple clinic.

Understanding Your Condition
If your headaches tend to start at the back of your head or neck, are usually on one side, and come with a stiff neck, they may be coming from your neck. These are called cervicogenic headaches. They're common in people who spend long hours at a desk or driving, and after whiplash. Treating the neck can reduce how often and how badly they come on. At Complete Recovery Physiotherapy in Marple we'll check whether your neck is the cause and treat it. We see people from Marple, Stockport, Romiley, Hazel Grove, High Lane and Disley.

What You Feel
- One-sided headache starting at the base of the skull
- Pain spreading from the neck to the front of the head
- Stiffness and reduced neck movement
- Headache triggered by certain neck positions or postures
- Pain on one side that may stay fixed
- Tenderness at the top of the neck
- Headache that eases when the neck settles
- Discomfort worsened by prolonged sitting or screen use
Common Causes
- Stiffness or irritation in the upper neck joints
- Poor posture, particularly prolonged screen use
- Tightness and trigger points in the neck muscles
- Previous neck injury such as whiplash
- Weakness in the deep neck flexor muscles
- Sustained awkward head postures
- Stress and tension
- Poor workstation ergonomics
When to Get Help Urgently
Call 999 or go to A&E for a sudden, severe headache (the worst of your life), or a headache with confusion, weakness, slurred speech, a stiff neck with fever and rash, or after a head injury. See your GP promptly if your headaches are new and getting worse, especially if you're over 50.
Headaches That Start in Your Neck?
Book your assessment today. We'll check whether your neck is the cause and treat it.
Your First Appointment, How We Treat It and the Timeline
Your first appointment is 45 minutes. We'll take a detailed headache history, screen for anything that needs medical review, and examine your neck and upper back. Treatment combines gentle hands-on work on the upper neck, deep neck strengthening and practical changes to your desk, screen and sleep setup. Many people notice fewer headaches within four to six weeks.
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
No GP referral needed. Direct access appointments available — often same-day or within a few days.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first session is a 45-minute comprehensive assessment. We start by listening — understanding your symptoms, your history, and what you want to get back to. We then carry out a thorough hands-on physical examination to identify the root cause of your problem. You'll receive a clear explanation of what's going on, a personalised treatment plan, and hands-on treatment begins in that very first session. You leave knowing exactly what's wrong, what we'll do about it, and how long recovery will take.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area we're treating. For knee, hip, or leg problems, shorts are ideal. For shoulder, neck, or back issues, a loose top or vest works well. You'll never be asked to undress beyond what's necessary for examination and treatment, and you'll always be treated with dignity and respect in our private treatment room.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and your goals. Many patients feel significant improvement within 3–6 sessions. Acute injuries often resolve faster, while long-standing or complex conditions may need more. We'll give you a clear treatment timeline at your first appointment — and we only ever recommend sessions you genuinely need. Our goal is to get you independent and pain-free as quickly as possible, not to keep you coming back.
Can I Claim Through Insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by most major health insurance providers including AXA, Vitality, Bupa, WPA, and Healix. We can bill your insurer directly so you don't need to pay upfront — simply bring your insurance authorisation number to your appointment. If you're not sure whether you're covered, call us and we'll help you check before you book.
Meet the Team
Cervicogenic Headache Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Complete Recovery Physiotherapy?
We Find the Neck Cause
Cervicogenic headaches come from the neck. We assess precisely to confirm that's the source and identify exactly which joints and muscles are involved.
Hands-On Joint Treatment
Gentle upper neck mobilisation eases the joint stiffness that drives these headaches — combined with soft tissue work and specific exercises.
Posture & Deep Neck Focus
Strong, well-controlled neck posture keeps the joints free and the headaches away. We address both for lasting relief, not just temporary easing.
Careful Screening
Headaches have many causes. We screen for other causes and red flags, so you're always in the right place for your care.
Same Physio Every Time
Continuity of care with a physio who knows your neck, your headaches and your goals throughout your recovery.
Free Parking in Marple
Easy visits at Bowden Hall with free parking right outside — making regular treatment straightforward.
Related

Neck Pain
Neck pain is one of the most common issues we treat at Complete Recovery Physio in Marple. Whether you're dealing with acute neck stiffness, tension headaches, whiplash, trapped nerves, postural pain from desk work, or long-standing chronic neck problems, our experienced physiotherapists can help you find real, lasting relief.
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Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury from a sudden jolt, often a car accident, causing pain and stiffness. We ease the pain and guide a gentle, progressive recovery at our Marple clinic.
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Physiotherapy
At Complete Recovery Physio, everything we do is built around high-quality physiotherapy. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with ongoing pain, or looking to move more freely, we're here to support you.
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Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is the hands-on heart of physiotherapy — skilled joint mobilisation, soft tissue release and manipulation that reduces pain, restores movement and helps your body move freely again, delivered by experienced physiotherapists in Marple.
Learn MoreDon't Let Pain Hold You Back
Expert, hands-on physiotherapy in Marple. Free parking. Same-day and short-notice appointments often available.











