Reviewed by Dr. Dean Younker, D.C. · Published 2026
Headaches are a category, not a condition
Tension-type headaches, migraines, and headaches with a musculoskeletal component behave differently and are managed differently. Migraine in particular is a neurological condition, and chiropractic care is not a treatment for migraine disease.
What a chiropractic evaluation can look at is whether the neck is contributing to a headache pattern, and whether anything in the exam suggests care would be appropriate.
Signs the neck may be involved
Headaches that begin at the base of the skull, that follow long periods at a screen or steering wheel, that appear on the same side as neck stiffness, or that change with head position are patterns worth examining. Tenderness in specific neck structures during an exam adds to that picture.
None of these is proof. They are indications that an examination of the neck is reasonable.
What the evaluation covers
Dr. Younker asks about frequency, timing, triggers, and what you have already tried, including anything prescribed by your physician. The physical exam looks at cervical motion, muscle tenderness, and posture-related loading. Health history determines whether care is appropriate at all.
If the pattern points somewhere other than the neck, you will be told so and referred appropriately.
Headaches that need medical care now
Seek urgent medical attention for the sudden worst headache of your life, a headache after a head injury, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, or a headache accompanied by confusion, vision loss, weakness, or difficulty speaking.
This article is general education and is not medical advice for your situation. To discuss what applies to you, request an appointment.