A headache that sits like a weight on the crown of your head isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a message from your body. But what exactly is it trying to tell you? Whether it’s tension, poor posture, or an underlying issue, a headache on top of your head can disrupt your focus, drain your energy, and make even simple tasks feel overwhelming.
At Moore MyoWorx, we know that pain on top of head isn’t random. It has a root cause, and when you address that cause, real relief follows. Many people who suffer from headaches on the top of their heads are dealing with muscular dysfunction, nerve irritation, or even vascular issues. Stress, dehydration, and poor sleep can make the problem worse. The good news? You don’t have to accept these headaches as part of your life.
In this post, we’ll break down the common reasons why you might experience this type of top-of-the-head headache and, more importantly, how to treat it effectively. Traditional painkillers only mask the symptoms, but we believe in solutions that last. From improving posture to restoring proper muscle function with targeted therapy, we’ll show you how to address the real cause of your pain so you can take back control.
1. Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are one of the most common types of headaches, and they often manifest as a dull, aching pain that wraps around the top of the head. This type of headache is frequently triggered by stress, muscle strain, or poor posture, leading to tightness in the neck, shoulders, and scalp. Unlike migraines, tension headaches typically don’t come with nausea or visual disturbances, but they can still be incredibly disruptive to daily life.
One of the main culprits behind tension headaches is muscle tension in the neck and upper back. When these muscles become tight or fatigued, they can create a pulling sensation on the scalp, leading to pain on the top of the head. This is especially common in people who spend long hours working at a desk, staring at screens, or carrying heavy loads on their shoulders.
Treatment for tension headaches involves addressing the underlying muscle tension and stress. Stretching, massage, and relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help reduce muscle tightness. Proper ergonomics—such as adjusting desk height and using a supportive chair—can also prevent strain. At Moore MyoWorx, we take a targeted approach to relieving tension headaches by restoring optimal muscle function, reducing tightness, and improving posture to prevent future episodes of top-of-the-head headache.
2. Migraines
Migraines are more than just headaches—they are a neurological condition that can cause severe, throbbing headaches on top of the head, often localized to one side (such as a headache top left side of the head or on the right side of the head) but occasionally spreading across the crown. Unlike tension headaches, migraines can bring additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, and even visual disturbances known as aura.
The exact cause of migraines isn’t fully understood, but they are often linked to changes in brain activity, nerve signaling, and blood flow. Triggers vary from person to person and can include hormonal fluctuations, certain foods, dehydration, lack of sleep, stress, and sensory overload.
Managing migraines requires a multi-faceted approach. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers is key. Keeping a migraine diary can help pinpoint specific causes. Hydration, a consistent sleep schedule, and proper nutrition can reduce the frequency of attacks. In addition to medical interventions like medication, targeted exercises focused on relieving muscle tension and improving circulation—such as the Moore MyoWorx approach—can provide long-term relief. By addressing muscular imbalances and nerve irritation, we help reduce the frequency and severity of top-of-the-head headaches
3. Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches originate from issues in the neck, specifically the cervical spine and surrounding muscles. These headaches often present as pain that starts at the base of the skull and radiates to the top of the head, sometimes mimicking migraine symptoms. They can be triggered by poor posture, neck injuries, or underlying spinal conditions.
One key characteristic of cervicogenic headaches is that they are often accompanied by restricted neck movement and tenderness in the upper cervical spine—leading to top of head sore to touch sensations. Treatment focuses on addressing the root cause—neck dysfunction. Targeted exercises and posture correction can help relieve tension and restore proper alignment. At Moore MyoWorx, we specialize in reducing muscular imbalances and improving cervical spine function, providing long-term relief from pain on top of the skull in cervicogenic headaches.
4. Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches occur when inflammation or congestion in the sinus cavities leads to pressure buildup, resulting in pain that can extend to the top of the head. These headaches are often accompanied by symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, and a feeling of fullness in the forehead.
The most common treatment for sinus headaches is addressing the underlying sinus condition. This may involve decongestants, nasal irrigation, steam inhalation, and staying hydrated to thin mucus. If sinus infections are frequent, identifying triggers such as allergies or environmental factors can help prevent them. Additionally, exercises that target the neck muscles—like those offered at Moore MyoWorx—can relieve tension in the face, neck and head, and improve circulation and reduce pressure on the top of the head.
5. Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are a rare but extremely painful type of headache that typically occur in cyclical patterns or “clusters.” These headaches often cause a burning or piercing pain that radiates from behind one eye and can extend to the top of the head. They are known for their intensity, sometimes waking sufferers from sleep, and can last anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours.
Unlike migraines or tension headaches, cluster headaches are not typically linked to stress or muscle tension. Instead, they are believed to be caused by abnormalities in the hypothalamus, which regulates circadian rhythms. Because of this, cluster headaches often occur at the same time each day for weeks or months before disappearing for long periods—but may leave residual pain of top-of-head sensations.
Treating cluster headaches can be challenging, as their exact cause is still being studied. Lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding alcohol, can also minimize episodes. Addressing any underlying muscle tension or postural issues with a program like Moore MyoWorx can improve overall headache management.
6. Occipital Neuralgia
Occipital neuralgia is a condition where the occipital nerves, which run from the base of the skull to the scalp, become irritated or inflamed. This can cause sharp, shooting pain that radiates to the top of the head, often mistaken for migraines or tension headaches.
Treatment involves reducing inflammation and relieving nerve pressure through targeted exercises, nerve blocks, or medication. Moore MyoWorx specializes in restoring proper muscle function to alleviate nerve irritation and prevent recurring top-of-the-head headaches.
7. Stress and Poor Posture
Stress and poor posture are two of the most common contributors to headaches, particularly those that affect the top of the head. When stress levels rise, the body’s natural response is to tense muscles, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and scalp. Over time, this chronic tension can lead to pain on top of the head as muscles become fatigued and circulation is restricted.
Poor posture compounds this issue. Spending hours hunched over a desk, looking down at a phone, or sitting with improper spinal alignment places extra strain on the muscles supporting the head. This strain can create a pulling sensation on the scalp, leading to a tender spot on top of the head when touched or a dull top of the head headache. Forward head posture, in particular, increases pressure on the cervical spine and can contribute to chronic headaches.
Addressing stress and poor posture requires a two-pronged approach. First, stress management techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and exercise can help reduce overall tension. Second, correcting posture through ergonomic adjustments, strengthening exercises, and targeted therapy like Moore MyoWorx can relieve strain on the neck and shoulders, preventing top-of-head pain from recurring.
8. Dehydration
Dehydration headaches occur when the body lacks adequate fluids, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain. This can cause the brain to contract slightly, triggering pain that is often felt at the top of the head. Even mild dehydration can result in a top-of-the-head headache, along with symptoms like dizziness, dry mouth, and fatigue.
Common causes of dehydration include excessive sweating, not drinking enough water, consuming too much caffeine or alcohol, and illnesses that lead to fluid loss. Because the brain is highly sensitive to changes in hydration levels, even a small drop in fluid intake can lead to headaches.
The best way to prevent dehydration headaches is simple: drink enough water throughout the day. The general recommendation is around 8 cups (64 ounces), but individual needs vary based on activity level, climate, and body size. Replenishing electrolytes through foods or drinks that contain sodium, potassium, and magnesium can also help. If dehydration headaches persist, addressing any underlying circulatory or muscular issues with a holistic approach like Moore MyoWorx may provide additional relief.
9. Lack of Sleep
Sleep is crucial for overall health, and when you don’t get enough, headaches often follow. A lack of sleep affects pain perception, increases muscle tension, and disrupts the body’s natural healing processes. This combination makes the top of the head especially susceptible to headache pain.
Sleep deprivation can be caused by stress, poor sleep hygiene, an inconsistent schedule, or conditions like sleep apnea. When sleep is disrupted, the nervous system becomes overactive, increasing the likelihood of headaches.
Improving sleep quality can significantly reduce headaches. This includes maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a comfortable sleep environment. If muscle tension is contributing to poor sleep, muscle therapy techniques—such as those used at Moore MyoWorx—can help relax the body and improve sleep quality, reducing the likelihood of pain on top of the head.
10. Medication Overuse
Ironically, overusing headache medications can lead to more headaches. This phenomenon, known as medication overuse headaches (MOH), occurs when pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or prescription migraine medications are used too frequently—sometimes triggering pressure on top of the head. Instead of alleviating pain, these medications can cause a rebound effect, making headaches more persistent and severe.
MOH can develop when medications are taken more than two or three times per week for an extended period. Symptoms often mimic tension headaches or migraines, making it difficult to recognize the root cause.
Treatment involves gradually reducing reliance on pain medications under medical supervision. Alternative pain management strategies, such as hydration, stress management, and exercise, can help break the cycle. At Moore MyoWorx, we focus on natural, long-term solutions that address the underlying causes of headaches rather than just masking symptoms of a top-of-the-head headache.
11. Inconsistent Caffeine Consumption
Caffeine can be both a headache trigger and a headache remedy. When consumed in moderation, it can help constrict blood vessels and alleviate headaches. However, inconsistent caffeine intake—either too much or too little—can lead to headaches, especially for those who are sensitive to it.
Caffeine withdrawal is a common cause of top-of-the-head headache, particularly in individuals who consume large amounts of coffee, tea, or energy drinks. When caffeine intake suddenly drops, blood vessels expand, leading to increased pressure in the brain and headache pain. Conversely, excessive caffeine can contribute to dehydration and trigger headaches.
Managing caffeine-related headaches involves maintaining a consistent intake or gradually reducing consumption to avoid withdrawal. Staying hydrated and balancing caffeine with proper nutrition can also help. If headaches persist, addressing underlying muscular or circulatory issues with therapy like Moore MyoWorx can provide a long-term solution top of head pain.
12. Trauma to the Head
Head trauma, such as concussions or whiplash injuries, can lead to persistent headaches. Even mild head injuries can cause inflammation, nerve irritation, and muscle tension, resulting in pain at the top of the head. These headaches may occur immediately after an injury or develop days or weeks later as the body responds to the trauma.
Post-traumatic headaches often share characteristics with migraines or tension headaches and may include symptoms such as dizziness, sensitivity to light and sound, and difficulty concentrating.
Treatment depends on the severity of the trauma but often includes rest, hydration, and exercise to restore normal function. At Moore MyoWorx, we specialize in post-concussion treatment, helping patients recover by addressing muscle dysfunction, improving circulation, and reducing nerve irritation linked to pain on top of the head. Our approach promotes healing and prevents chronic headaches from developing after head trauma.
Rare Causes of Headache on Top of Head
While most headaches are caused by tension, migraines, or lifestyle factors, certain rare but serious conditions can also lead to pain at the top of the head. If headaches are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other neurological symptoms, seeking medical attention is crucial. Some of these rare causes include:
Brain Aneurysm
A brain aneurysm occurs when a weakened blood vessel in the brain bulges or ruptures, leading to a potentially life-threatening situation. A sudden, severe headache—often described as “the worst headache of my life”—can be a warning sign of an aneurysm rupture, especially if it causes sharp pain on top of the skull. Additional symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, vision problems, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical intervention is essential.
Brain Tumors
Although rare, brain tumors can cause headaches due to increased pressure inside the skull. These headaches may be persistent, worsen over time, and be accompanied by other symptoms such as seizures, vision changes, personality shifts, or weakness in the limbs. If headaches are progressively worsening and not responding to typical treatments, a medical evaluation is recommended.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertensive Crisis)
Severely elevated blood pressure can lead to hypertensive crisis, which may cause a throbbing headache at the top of the head. This condition is often accompanied by dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or vision problems. Because a hypertensive crisis can lead to strokes or organ damage, it requires immediate medical attention.
Meningitis or Encephalitis
Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and encephalitis (brain inflammation) can cause severe headaches, along with symptoms like fever, neck stiffness, confusion, and sensitivity to light. These infections can be life-threatening and require urgent medical treatment.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, causing intense facial pain that can extend to the top of the head. The pain is often triggered by simple activities such as talking, chewing, or even a light touch to the face. While it is not life-threatening, the condition can be extremely debilitating and may require medication or surgical intervention. At Moore MyoWorx, we help patients recover by addressing muscle dysfunction, improving circulation, and reducing irritation of the trigeminal nerve.
Temporal Arteritis
Temporal arteritis (also called giant cell arteritis) is an inflammatory condition affecting the arteries in the head, particularly around the temples. It can cause severe headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, and vision problems. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Early diagnosis and corticosteroid treatment are crucial in preventing complications.
Treatment Options for Headache on Top of Head
Effectively treating headaches on the top of the head depends on identifying the underlying cause. Here are some proven treatment options:
1. Lifestyle Modifications
- Improve posture: Maintaining good posture reduces tension in the neck and shoulders.
- Manage stress: Exercise, deep breathing, and relaxation help reduce headache frequency.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water prevents dehydration-related headaches.
- Regulate sleep patterns: A consistent sleep schedule improves overall health and reduces headache occurrences.
2. Moore MyoWorx Treatment
Our proprietary exercises, along with the patented Moore MyoWorx TM20 device, can relieve muscle tension, correct imbalances, and improve circulation—key factors in headache relief.
At Moore MyoWorx, we take a comprehensive approach to headache treatment, focusing on long-term relief by addressing the root causes rather than just managing symptoms.
3. Medication Management
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (used in moderation)
- Prescription medications for migraines or specific headache types
- Preventive medications for chronic headache sufferers
4. Alternative Therapies
- Acupuncture
- Massage therapy
- Chiropractic care
5. Medical Intervention
For serious underlying conditions such as brain aneurysms, tumors, or infections, immediate medical evaluation and treatment are necessary.
How to Get Rid of a Headache on the Top of the Head at Home
When that pressure or pain settles on the crown of your head, it can stop your day in its tracks. But before you reach for another painkiller, let’s talk about a few effective at-home strategies that may help relieve the pain—and address what’s really causing it.
Start by checking your posture. Poor alignment—especially when sitting or working at a computer—can cause tension to build in the muscles at the base of your skull and upper back. This tension often radiates upward, resulting in pain at the top of your head. Take frequent breaks, sit upright with shoulders relaxed, and consider using a lumbar support cushion to help your spine stay neutral.
Next, try applying moist heat to the upper neck and shoulders. A warm compress or heating pad can help relax tight muscles that may be causing of top-of-the-head headache. You can also gently massage the neck and upper trapezius muscles to improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. If your headache improves with massage, it’s a strong indicator that muscular dysfunction is playing a role.
Hydration is another simple fix that’s often overlooked. Dehydration can trigger headaches or make existing ones worse. Drinking a full glass of water at the first sign of pain may help ease the intensity.
Finally, try gentle stretching or light movement like walking to stimulate blood flow and relieve tension. Avoid high-intensity workouts while you’re experiencing pain—overexertion can make things worse.
If these at-home methods provide temporary relief but the top middle head pain keeps coming back, the root cause could be muscle dysfunction or nerve compression. That’s where targeted treatment, like the Moore MyoWorx approach, comes in to break the pain cycle for good.
When to See a Doctor
A headache on the top of your head—often described as a “crown” or “vertex” headache—can range from mildly annoying to severely disruptive. While many of these headaches are caused by muscle tension, posture issues, stress, or even dehydration, there are times when it’s crucial to get a professional evaluation.
If your headache is persistent, worsening over time, or accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, vision changes, dizziness, confusion, numbness, or difficulty speaking, don’t wait. These could be signs of something more serious, such as a neurological condition, vascular issue, or infection that needs immediate medical attention.
Another key red flag is if the headache came on suddenly and intensely—what’s often referred to as a “thunderclap” headache. This type of headache can indicate a medical emergency, like a brain bleed or aneurysm. Likewise, if your headache disrupts your sleep, wakes you from sleep, or occurs after a head injury, it’s best to consult a doctor right away.
At Moore MyoWorx, we often see patients who have been living with chronic head pain for months—or even years—without answers. Many of these cases stem from overlooked musculoskeletal imbalances in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, especially the trapezius muscle. If your doctor has ruled out more serious conditions and you’re still struggling with recurring headaches at the top of your head, our integrative approach may offer a solution.
Final Thoughts on Top of the Head Headaches
A headache on the top of your head may seem like just another nuisance, but it’s often a signal—your body’s way of telling you that something’s out of balance. Whether it’s stemming from tension in the muscles of your neck and shoulders, the result of stress, fatigue, or even a past concussion, this type of pain shouldn’t be ignored. At Moore MyoWorx, we understand that recurring headaches aren’t just about managing symptoms—they’re about identifying and addressing the root cause.
The top of the head is a unique location for headache pain, often associated with trigger points in the upper trapezius, suboccipitals, or even deep neck flexors. When these muscles become tight or dysfunctional—whether due to poor posture, physical strain, or unresolved trauma—they can refer pain upward to the crown of your head. Traditional approaches might offer temporary relief, but lasting results come from treating the source of the dysfunction.
Our treatment model is designed to do just that. We combine neuromuscular assessment with targeted therapy to release muscular tension, restore function, and promote lasting recovery. If you’re tired of chasing short-term fixes or simply “pushing through” the pain, it’s time to try something different. Let’s get to the root and rebuild from there.
At Moore MyoWorx, we don’t just treat pain—we restore function, so you can reclaim control.
FAQ: Headache on Top of Head
Should I be worried about pain in the top of my head?
Headaches on the top of your head—also called vertex headaches—are often caused by tension, poor posture, or muscle dysfunction, especially in the upper back and neck. In most cases, they’re not dangerous, but they do indicate that your body is under some form of strain. That said, if the headache is sudden, severe, or accompanied by symptoms like confusion, vision loss, or difficulty speaking, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. Otherwise, persistent top-of-head headaches are a signal that something needs to be addressed, and identifying the root cause is key to effective treatment.
What does a high blood pressure headache feel like?
High blood pressure (hypertension) headaches often present as a pulsating or throbbing pain, usually occurring on both sides of the head and sometimes at the top of the head. These headaches are typically more intense in the morning and may be accompanied by symptoms like blurred vision, chest pain, or shortness of breath. While high blood pressure itself doesn’t always cause headaches, a sudden spike—called a hypertensive crisis—can. If you suspect your headache is tied to high blood pressure, it’s essential to monitor your blood pressure levels and consult a healthcare provider.
What is the trigger point for the top of the head headache?
One of the most common trigger points for pain at the top of the head is located in the upper trapezius muscle, which runs from the shoulders up to the base of the skull. Other contributors include the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) and suboccipital muscles. These muscles, when tight or dysfunctional, can refer pain upward to the crown of the head. Trigger point therapy and neuromuscular treatment, including targeted exercises, are effective for releasing this tension and reducing referred pain.
How do you get rid of a sinus headache on the top of your head?
A headache caused by sinusitis usually affects the front of the face, with a headache front of the forehead and around the eyes, though it can sometimes radiate upward to the top of the head. If your sinus headache reaches the top of your head, it may be due to sinus congestion, inflammation, or infection. To relieve it, try steam inhalation, nasal irrigation, or over-the-counter decongestants. However, if you’re experiencing chronic pain at the top of your head, it may be more muscular in nature than sinus-related. In that case, treating muscular dysfunction in the neck and shoulders can provide more lasting relief.
What hormone causes headaches at the top of the head?
Fluctuations in estrogen are often behind hormonally driven headaches, especially in women. These headaches may occur around the menstrual cycle, during pregnancy, or during perimenopause. While hormonal headaches typically affect the sides or front of the head, they can sometimes manifest at the top. Additionally, cortisol—the body’s stress hormone—can indirectly contribute by increasing muscle tension and inflammation, both of which are common culprits in top-of-head headaches.
How do you fix a headache on the top of your head?
To truly fix a top-of-head headache, you need to go beyond quick relief. Start by assessing your posture, hydration, stress levels, and sleep quality. If the headache persists, it’s often due to muscle dysfunction—especially in the upper trapezius or suboccipital area. At Moore MyoWorx, we use comprehensive assessments to identify the source of your top-of-the-head pain and apply targeted treatment to release trigger points, restore proper muscle function, and prevent recurrence. Lasting relief is possible when you address the root cause—not just the symptoms.
Can dehydration give you headaches?
Yes, dehydration is a common trigger for headaches, including those at the top of the head. When your body lacks sufficient fluids, your brain can temporarily shrink from fluid loss, pulling away from the skull and causing pain. Symptoms may also include dry mouth, fatigue, and dizziness. Drinking water consistently throughout the day—especially during physical activity or hot weather—is a simple yet powerful way to prevent dehydration-related headaches. Dehydration also impacts the muscles, causing tightness or spasm, which can result in headaches.
How long does a tension headache last?
Tension headaches—the most common type of headache—can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days. They often start gradually and are characterized by a dull, pressure-like sensation, sometimes radiating to the top of the head. These headaches are usually linked to stress, poor posture, or muscle tension. While over-the-counter pain relievers can help in the short term, resolving the muscular imbalances and reducing stress through proper treatment, like the Moore MyoWorx method, offers more sustainable results.
