Post-traumatic headache
Headaches that start or get worse after a head or neck injury.
Common symptoms
- Headache that starts or worsens soon after the injury
- Migraine-like headaches, sometimes with light or noise sensitivity
- Pressure or tension-type headache
- Headaches triggered by screens, exertion or poor sleep
- Headache together with neck pain
How we evaluate it
Neurology reviews the headache pattern and triggers, sleep, neck involvement and the medications you use, and looks for warning signs that need urgent care.
How we treat it
Headache-predominant cases typically start with neurology, which evaluates and manages headaches as part of the overall recovery plan.
- A headache plan from neurology, including medication when appropriate
- Treating the sleep and neck problems that feed headaches
- A gradual return to activity, paced around symptoms
- Physical therapy for neck-related headache when indicated
What the guidelines say
Starting treatment for post-traumatic headache is one of the guideline's eleven priority topics; headache treatment starts early rather than waiting to see whether it settles.
Headache is managed early, together with sleep and mood, because symptoms affect one another. The guideline has a dedicated post-traumatic headache section.
Cervicovestibular rehabilitation is recommended when headaches, neck pain or dizziness last more than 10 days.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Your clinicians tailor evaluation and treatment to your history, symptoms and goals.
Not sure where to start?
Our care team routes your case to the right specialist after intake. See the FAQ, the clinical guidelines behind our care, or check your state.