Symptom 8: Neck and Shoulder Discomfort: The Radiating Pain of Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches aren’t just confined to the head and face. They often extend their painful reach to the neck and shoulder area. Many sufferers describe a tightening sensation or discomfort around the neck or shoulders on the side of the headache. Some even report a sense of stiffness or restricted movement in these areas.
This neck and shoulder discomfort is another piece of the cluster headache puzzle. It’s not a separate issue; rather, it’s an extension of the pain from the headache. The intense, throbbing headache can radiate outward, sending waves of discomfort down into the neck and shoulder region.
The pain in these areas, while distressing, is generally less intense than the headache itself. However, the added discomfort can contribute to the overall distress experienced during a cluster headache attack. Moreover, the tightness or stiffness can further limit daily activities, adding to the burden of the condition.(8)
