Head Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Natural Relief Options
Head pain, especially when felt in the back of the head or at the base of the skull, can be disruptive and concerning. Whether you’re experiencing headache pain behind the head, sharp pain in the head, or searching for natural head pain relief, Ivy Rehab offers expert care to help you find lasting comfort.
Common Symptoms of Head Pain
Head pain can vary in intensity and location. You may experience:
- Pain in the back of the head or base of the skull
- Shooting pains or primary stabbing headache sensations
- Tightness or pressure around the scalp (pressure headache)
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Pain that worsens with physical activity or certain positions like sitting or standing
- Discomfort that lasts more than 30 minutes or recurs frequently
Natural Head Pain Relief Options
At Ivy Rehab, we focus on holistic and evidence-based approaches to relieve pain and restore function:
- Manual therapy to release tension in the head and neck
- Postural training to reduce strain during sitting or standing
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the cervical spine
- Heat therapy to relax tight muscles and improve circulation
- Massage therapy targeting trigger points and pinched nerves
- Education on sleep positions and workstation ergonomics
What Causes Head Pain?
Understanding the type of pain you’re experiencing is key to effective treatment. Common causes include:
1. Occipital Neuralgia
This condition involves inflammation or irritation of the occipital nerves, which run from the cervical spine to the scalp. It causes sharp, electric-like pain in the back of the head, often triggered by movement or touch
2. Tension Headaches
The most common headache disorder, tension headaches often feel like a tight band around the head. They may stem from muscle strain, poor posture, or stress, and frequently affect the head and neck region
3. Cervicogenic Headaches
These headaches originate from issues in the cervical spine, such as pinched nerves, arthritis, or disc degeneration. Pain typically starts in the neck and radiates upward to the head
4. Migraine
Migraines can cause sharp pain in the head, often accompanied by sensitivity to light, nausea, and throbbing discomfort. Though similar to occipital neuralgia, migraines have different neurological origins
5. Muscle Strain
Tight suboccipital muscles at the base of the skull can lead to persistent pain, especially after injury or poor sleeping posture
When to Seek Help
If your head pain is persistent, worsens over time, or interferes with daily life, it’s time to consult a specialist. Ivy Rehab’s physical therapists are trained to identify the root cause and create a personalized plan for recovery.
Speed up your recovery.
Schedule an appointment with an Ivy Rehab clinic near you. Let us help ease your pain.