When it comes to pain we tend to attribute physical discomfort or pain to a structural issue in the body. 

If we have pain in our arm we think there is a problem with our arm.

This assumption is especially true when we experience persistent or chronic pain.  Many people who experience neck pain often believe that there is a structural problem in their neck that needs to be fixed, but this may not always be the case.  Our body is incredibly intelligent and always finds ways to communicate with us.

Pain is one of the ways our body communicates with us, but it’s not always a direct indicator of the location of the problem.  Pain is often a signal that something is wrong, but it may not necessarily be in the place where the pain is felt.  In the case of persistent neck pain, it may not always be caused by a structural issue in the neck.  Instead, it could be a warning sign of a migraine prodrome, which is the first stage of a migraine attack. 

A migraine prodrome can manifest as neck pain, among other symptoms, such as fatigue, irritability, or changes in appetite.  

Research shows that migraines are a neurological condition that affects the brain and central nervous system.  Migraines are caused by changes in the brainstem and its interaction with the trigeminal nerve, which is a major pain pathway in the head.   During a migraine attack, the trigeminal nerve sends pain signals to the brain, which is perceived as a headache.  While migraines are primarily a neurological condition, they can manifest with various physical symptoms, including neck pain. 

As a result, treating the underlying migraine condition can significantly improve neck pain.

Many people who experience persistent neck pain tend to focus solely on treating the neck. 

They may visit a chiropractor or massage therapist to try to alleviate the pain, spending thousands of dollars for short lived relief.  However, if the root cause of the neck pain is a migraine prodrome, these treatments may not provide long-lasting relief.

If you experience neck pain, it’s essential to pay attention to any other symptoms you may be experiencing, as they could be indicative of a migraine prodrome.   Treating migraines involves identifying how the root cause manifests in your body and working towards shifting your environment and lifestyle for lasting results.

So remember, neck pain can be a warning sign of a migraine prodrome and not necessarily an indication of a structural problem in the neck. 

*If you experience persistent neck pain, it’s essential to first consult with a healthcare provider to identify if there is an underlying cause and treat it accordingly*