Have you recently been involved in a car accident or suffered a sudden jolt to your neck, only to notice ongoing headaches afterwards?
You’re certainly not alone.
Whiplash injuries are one of the most common reasons people develop persistent whiplash headaches after incidents such as motor vehicle accidents.
Research shows that up to 60% of individuals with whiplash will experience ongoing headaches as part of their recovery journey.
At the Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic, we regularly see patients who struggle with whiplash headaches long after their neck injury has healed, often without realising that the neck remains the key driver of their symptoms.
In this blog, we will explore 3 key aspects of whiplash headaches:
- What Causes Whiplash Headaches?
- How Can Whiplash Headaches Be Treated?
- What Can You Do to Help Reduce Whiplash Headaches?
What Causes Headaches After Whiplash?
Whiplash occurs when the neck experiences a sudden, forceful movement, typically forwards and backwards, much like the cracking of a whip. This rapid motion can strain or injure the soft tissues, joints, and ligaments in the neck.
When these structures are injured, it often leads to dysfunction in the upper cervical spine; the top three vertebrae of the neck.
These areas are particularly sensitive as they share close connections with the nerves that refer pain to the head. This is why so many people with whiplash experience headaches that start at the base of the skull and spread towards the forehead, temples, or even behind the eyes.
Clinically, these are known as cervicogenic headaches. Headaches that originate from dysfunction within the neck.
Unlike migraines, these headaches don’t usually involve nausea or visual disturbances, but they can still significantly impact your quality of life if left untreated.
How Can Whiplash Headaches Be Treated?
At the Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic, we focus on identifying and treating the underlying cause of headaches stemming from the neck.
We understand how frustrating it can be when these headaches persist, even after the bruises and stiffness from your accident have faded.
Our approach focuses on restoring normal function to the upper cervical spine and improving muscle control.
One of the key techniques we use is the Watson Headache® Approach – a non-invasive method that helps determine whether your neck is the true source of your headaches.
This approach not only identifies the cause but also works to gently desensitise the involved nerves to reduce or eliminate your headaches.
What Can You Do to Help Reduce Whiplash Headaches?
If you’re suffering from ongoing headaches after a whiplash injury, there are steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:
- Maintain Good Posture
Poor posture places extra strain on your neck, particularly when sitting at a desk or using a smartphone. Keeping your head in a neutral position, aligned with your shoulders can reduce unnecessary stress on
sensitive neck structures.
- Gentle Neck Movement is Better Than Complete Rest
Unless specifically advised otherwise, gentle, controlled neck movements will support healing. Staying still for long periods may worsen stiffness and prolong your recovery.
- Prioritise Sleep and Hydration
Quality sleep and hydration are vital for your body’s healing process. Aim for a consistent sleep routine and limit screen time before bed.
- Seek Professional Help Early
If your headaches persist beyond a few weeks, don’t delay seeking help. Early, targeted intervention can prevent these symptoms from becoming chronic.
Don’t Let Whiplash Headaches Hold You Back
Headaches following a whiplash injury can be exhausting, but you don’t need to accept them as part of daily life. With the right assessment and treatment, relief is achievable.
At the Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic, we focus on diagnosing and treating headaches that stem from the neck. If you’ve been struggling with whiplash headaches after an injury, we encourage you to reach out.
Book your initial assessment online or call us today on 1800 432 322. Let us help you take the first step towards living headache-free.
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References
Bogduk, N. (2014). The anatomy and pathophysiology of neck pain. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinics of North America, 25(3), 367–376. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmr.2014.03.005
Jull, G., & Sterling, M. (2009). Management of acute whiplash associated disorders. Manual Therapy, 14(5), 333–339. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.math.2009.03.005
Jull, G., Sterling, M., Falla, D., Treleaven, J., & O’Leary, S. (2008). Whiplash, headache and neck pain: Research-based directions for physical therapies. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Watson, D. H., & Drummond, P. D. (2012). Head pain referral during examination of the neck in migraine and tension-type headache. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 52(8), 1226–1235. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2012.02164.x
Watson, D. H., & Trott, P. H. (1993). Cervical headache: An investigation of natural head posture and upper cervical flexor muscle performance. Cephalalgia, 13(4), 272–284. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1468-2982.1993.1304272.x
Sterling, M. (2011). Physiotherapy management of whiplash-associated disorders (WAD). Journal of Physiotherapy, 57(1), 49–56. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1836-9553(11)70011-8
