Understanding Suboccipital Headaches & The Role Of Structural Chiropractic Care in Te Puke Bay of Plenty NZ

Suboccipital headaches are one of the most common — and frustrating — types of headaches people experience. Often described as a dull, throbbing pain at the base of the skull, these headaches can radiate into the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes. For many, the discomfort becomes chronic, affecting daily function, sleep, and quality of life. But what causes them, and how can structural chiropractic care help in Te Puke Bay Of Plenty NZ?

What Are Suboccipital Headaches?

Suboccipital headaches originate from tension, irritation, or dysfunction in the suboccipital muscles — a small group of muscles located at the base of the skull. These muscles connect the upper cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2) to the skull and are responsible for subtle head and neck movements. When these muscles become tight, inflamed, or imbalanced, they can compress nearby nerves or alter blood flow, triggering headache symptoms.

Common causes include:

• Poor posture (especially from prolonged screen use)
• Whiplash injuries or trauma
• Cervical joint dysfunction
• Chronic muscle tension or stress
• Structural misalignments in the upper cervical spine

How Structural Chiropractic Care Can Help

Structural chiropractic care is a specialized approach that focuses on correcting underlying structural shifts in the spine — particularly in the upper cervical region — that can lead to nerve interference, muscular imbalance, and joint dysfunction. Rather than merely treating the symptoms, this approach aims to address the root cause of the problem.

Here’s how structural chiropractic care benefits those with suboccipital headaches:

1. Correcting Misalignments at the Source
   The top two vertebrae of the spine — the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) — are closely linked to the suboccipital region. Misalignments here can create mechanical tension on the muscles, irritate nerve roots, and disrupt normal head and neck biomechanics. Structural chiropractic adjustments aim to realign these vertebrae with precision, relieving pressure and restoring balance.
2. Reducing Muscle Tension and Improving Posture
   Misalignments in the spine often cause compensatory muscle tightness, especially in the upper neck. By restoring normal structural alignment, the muscles can relax and function as intended. Structural chiropractors also provide guidance on posture correction and ergonomic changes that can prevent recurrence of tension and headaches.
3. Restoring Nervous System Function
   The nervous system is highly sensitive to structural distortion, particularly in the upper cervical spine. Nerve interference in this area can affect muscle control, circulation, and sensory feedback — all of which can contribute to suboccipital headaches. Structural chiropractic care helps normalize neurological communication, supporting the body’s ability to heal and function optimally.

What to Expect From Care In Te Puke Bay Of Plenty NZ?

Structural chiropractic care typically begins with a thorough consultation, postural analysis, spinal imaging (such as X-rays), and specific tests to identify structural shifts. Once a clear picture is established, a personalized corrective care plan is developed. Adjustments are gentle, precise, and designed to improve long-term spinal integrity rather than providing just temporary relief.

Conclusion

If you're struggling with suboccipital headaches, structural chiropractic care offers a science-based, non-invasive solution that addresses the underlying cause — not just the symptoms. By correcting spinal misalignments and restoring proper function to the upper cervical spine, many people find lasting relief, improved posture, and a renewed sense of well-being.

If you’ve been living with recurring headaches, it might be time to look deeper than painkillers and quick fixes. Book a consultation at our clinic and let’s explore how structural chiropractic can help you feel your best again. If you or someone you know is suffering call us at (07) 573 9988 for a consultation and to set up a time to have your pelvis, spine, and nervous system checked.

Dr. David Guest is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Mount Maunganui Chiropractic in Mount Maunganui Tauranga NZ and Te Puke Chiropractic in Te Puke Bay of Plenty NZ. Dr. Guest focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 20 years. He loves helping spines of all sizes and shapes. You can reach Dr. Guest at david@mtchiro.co.nz or (07) 573 9988.