Symptom 7. Neck Pain and Stiffness: A Common Preceding and Accompanying Discomfort
For many migraine sufferers, neck pain and stiffness can be an early warning sign of an incoming migraine attack. It can precede the onset of a headache, but it also often continues throughout the attack, adding another layer of discomfort to an already distressing situation.
Imagine a vice slowly tightening around your neck, the pressure increasing steadily. The discomfort is mild at first but gradually escalates, evolving into a persistent ache that restricts movement and increases stress. That’s what neck pain associated with migraines can feel like.
The link between migraines and neck pain isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed that the nerves supplying the neck and the nerves involved in migraines are closely related. When a migraine strikes, the overactive pain pathways can also affect the nerves in the neck, leading to pain and stiffness.
Neck pain associated with migraines isn’t merely an ancillary symptom. It can significantly add to the overall discomfort of the attack. The stiffness can limit your range of motion, making it challenging to carry out even simple tasks. Moreover, the pain can make it difficult to find a comfortable position to rest or sleep, which is crucial during a migraine episode.
While neck pain and stiffness may not be as well-known as other migraine symptoms, their impact can be just as debilitating. It’s another piece of evidence of the widespread effect of migraines on the body. (7)
