14/05/2026
Headache Classification
Headache Classifications are often descriptive rather than based on underlying cause.
They describe what the headache looks like rather than why it is happening.
For example, classifications such as:
• Migraine
• Tension-type headache
• Cluster headache
• Cervicogenic headache
are largely defined by:
• pain location,
• symptom patterns,
• duration,
• associated symptoms (nausea, light sensitivity, aura, etc.),
• attack frequency.
This groups people by symptom presentation, rather than a mechanism-based diagnosis.
Upper cervical dysfunction may contribute to headache currently classified as migraine, tension headache and cluster headache.
The neck can feed abnormal nociceptive input into the trigeminocervical nucleus. This can initiate sensitisation and the resulting symptoms can satisfy formal Primary Headache criteria even if the cervical spine is a major perpetuating factor.
Headache classification describes a recognisable symptom cluster, but does not necessarily explain the biological source generating the symptoms.
