Headaches and Neck Tension: What’s Causing It and How to Finally Find Relief in Midtown Manhattan
Neck tension and headaches often show up together—and for good reason. Tight neck muscles, poor posture, and stress can all contribute to both tension-type headaches and cervicogenic headaches (those that originate from dysfunction in the cervical spine). If you’re in Midtown Manhattan and struggling with these issues, Metro Wellness NYC offers a comprehensive, research-backed approach that combines chiropractic care, physical therapy, and acupuncture—all under one roof.
The Connection Between Neck Tension and Headaches
When the muscles, joints, and nerves in the neck become irritated or dysfunctional, they can refer pain upward into the head. In fact, studies have found that up to 20% of all chronic headaches may be cervicogenic in origin1.
Common contributing factors include:
Forward head posture from prolonged screen time
Tightness in the suboccipital muscles (base of skull)
Upper cervical spine joint dysfunction
Muscle imbalances in the neck and shoulders
Stress and sleep disturbances
The pain may feel like a dull ache around the temples, a tight band across the forehead, or pressure behind the eyes—and it often gets worse as the day goes on.
Our Evidence-Based Approach to Treatment
At Metro Wellness NYC, our team works collaboratively to address both the symptoms and root causes of your headaches and neck tension. Our integrated model draws on research-supported techniques to maximize outcomes.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Spinal manipulation has been shown to reduce headache intensity and frequency—especially for tension-type and cervicogenic headaches23. Dr. Wiley uses gentle adjustments to restore mobility in the neck, reduce pressure on irritated nerves, and improve alignment. Our advanced treatment table also provides traction and flexion-distraction therapy, which helps decompress spinal joints and alleviate chronic stiffness.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help correct muscle imbalances and improve cervical stability. Manual therapy (such as soft tissue release and joint mobilization) combined with specific exercise programs has been shown to significantly reduce neck pain and associated headaches4. Dr. Leacee blends hands-on treatment with customized mobility and strengthening exercises to retrain posture and support long-term relief.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is well-documented for its effects on both muscle tension and headache frequency. It stimulates endorphin release, improves blood flow, and regulates the nervous system. Research has shown that acupuncture is effective for tension-type and migraine headaches, especially when performed consistently over several weeks5. Dr. Jessie uses targeted point therapy and heat therapy to help patients relax, reset, and recover.
Why Patients Choose Metro Wellness NYC
Located steps from Rockefeller Center, our clinic provides a convenient and integrative experience—ideal for busy professionals suffering from posture-related neck pain and stress-driven headaches.
One-stop care: Chiropractic, physical therapy, and acupuncture all in one visit
Licensed providers: Highly trained and experienced in evidence-based treatment
Efficient sessions: Short, effective visits tailored to your schedule
Real results: Many patients feel noticeable relief after just one session
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Headaches and neck tension don’t have to be your “normal.” With personalized, multidisciplinary care, you can break the cycle of pain and feel like yourself again.
Book your appointment today and let our team guide you back to balance—naturally.
References
Bogduk, N. (2003). Cervicogenic headache: Anatomic basis and pathophysiologic mechanisms. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 7(5), 382–386.
Bryans, R. et al. (2011). Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 34(5), 274–289.
Gross, A. R. et al. (2010). Manipulation and mobilisation for neck pain contrasted against an inactive control or another active treatment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (1).
Salles, R. W. et al. (2017). Effectiveness of physical therapy on pain and function in patients with chronic neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brazilian Journal of Physical Therapy, 21(6), 451–459.
Linde, K. et al. (2016). Acupuncture for the prevention of tension-type headache. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4).
