Headaches are pain experienced in any region of the head, whether on one side, both sides, or in a specific location. They are among the most common neurological complaints worldwide, with an estimated 52% of the global population experiencing a headache disorder each year (Stovner et al., 2022). Headache pain arises from a complex interaction of biological, neurological, and lifestyle factors, which is why modern clinical practice classifies headaches based on their underlying cause. Headache classification is the foundation of effective treatment, and this principle guides every stage of assessment.
Primary Headaches include Migraines, Tension‑Type Headaches, Cluster Headaches, and other related conditions. These headaches are typically longstanding and episodic, and they are believed to stem from changes in the brain’s blood vessels and neural pathways. Globally, migraine alone affects approximately 15.8% of adults, making it one of the most disabling neurological conditions (World Health Organization, 2025). Because the neck and upper cervical spine often influence these pain pathways, assessment of suspected Primary Headache routinely includes a detailed evaluation of neck mobility, posture, and muscular tension. Neck function is one of the most overlooked contributors to persistent headache pain, and recognising this early can significantly improve outcomes.
Secondary Headaches arise from an identifiable event or condition. Trauma such as whiplash, direct impact to the head, or sudden strain to the neck can trigger ongoing Headache Pain. Vascular changes—including those associated with stroke or arterial irritation—are also well‑documented causes. According to global burden data, headache disorders account for 5.4% of all neurological disability‑adjusted life years (DALYs), with secondary causes contributing significantly to emergency presentations (Rui et al., 2025). Infection, facial nerve irritation, and fluctuations in blood pressure can also produce headache symptoms. When the source of pain is secondary, early identification is the key to preventing long‑term complications.
Headache assessment and treatment are inherently complex because pain is shaped by anatomical structures, neurological sensitivity, stress levels, occupational demands, and lifestyle patterns. Research shows that stress is one of the strongest modifiable triggers, with up to 80% of migraine sufferers reporting stress as a primary precipitating factor (Headache & Migraine Policy Forum, 2025). This is why your physiotherapist may discuss referral to a psychologist when appropriate. Stress management is a clinical tool, not an optional extra, and integrating it into care can meaningfully reduce recurrence.
Management and assessment of Headache Pain depends on the cause of the pain, how it feels and changes over the day, what makes it better or worse, and the length of time you have been experiencing the pain. These details are explored during your first assessment, which lays the groundwork for reducing pain and improving comfort. From there, your treatment plan is tailored to the specific cause, with a focus on relieving pain, restoring pain-free movement, and building strategies to lower the chance of future flare-ups.
At Atlas Physio, we guide you with clear education, structured management, and ongoing support both in the clinic and at home. We make care easy to access by opening seven days a week, offering evening appointments, providing bulk billing for eligible clients, and ensuring no gap fees for WorkCover or TAC clients. Get in touch today to take the first step toward feeling more comfortable, moving with confidence, and enjoying care that is practical, dependable, and designed to deliver lasting results.
REFERENCES
Headache & Migraine Policy Forum. (2025). Headache diseases statistics guide. Retrieved 13th December 2025 from https://headachemigraine.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Headache-Diseases-Stats-Guide.pdf
Rui, Y., Wu, B., Li, Q., & Zhang, K. (2025). Global trends and regional disparities in the burden of headache disorders, 1990–2021: A comprehensive analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study. Frontiers in Neurology, 16.
Stovner, L. J., Hagen, K., Linde, M., & Steiner, T. J. (2022). The global prevalence of headache: An update, with analysis of the influences of methodological factors on prevalence estimates. The Journal of Headache and Pain, 23(34).
World Health Organization. (2025). Migraine and other headache disorders. Retrieved 13th December 2025 from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/headache-disorders