Experiencing Neck Pain, Headaches or Eye Strain from Desk Work?
If you're suffering from persistent neck tightness, tension headaches, eye strain or pain behind the head, there’s a good chance the suboccipital triangle muscles at the base of your skull are involved. These small but powerful muscles often become irritated from repetitive strain injuries (RSI) linked to prolonged desk or computer work, leading to ongoing discomfort that doesn’t respond to stretching or massage alone.
At PACT Physio & Rehab, located in Miranda, NSW, we specialise in identifying and treating the underlying causes of suboccipital pain—especially when it stems from poor desk ergonomics, chronic postural strain, or repetitive static loading of the cervical spine
What is the Suboccipital Triangle?
The suboccipital triangle is a group of deep neck muscles—specifically the rectus capitis posterior major and minor, and the obliquus capitis superior and inferior. These muscles play a crucial role in fine motor control of the head and neck, including subtle nodding and rotational movements.
In desk workers, these muscles can become chronically overactive or compressed due to:
- Forward head posture (text neck)
- Long hours at a computer without breaks
- Poor workstation setup or monitor height
- Stress-related clenching and postural rigidity
Common Symptoms of Suboccipital Dysfunction:
- Dull, aching pain at the base of the skull or behind the eyes
- Tension-type headaches or occipital migraines
- Visual disturbances such as eye fatigue or blurred vision
- Neck stiffness and reduced mobility, especially when turning the head
- Tenderness in the upper cervical spine region
- Referred pain into the shoulders or upper traps
These symptoms are often misdiagnosed or treated ineffectively without addressing the specific involvement of the suboccipital triangle muscles.
Why Desk Workers Are Prone to Suboccipital RSI
Sitting for long periods with a forward head posture places sustained tension on the suboccipital muscles, compressing the greater occipital nerve and impairing blood flow. Over time, this leads to trigger point formation, loss of cervical mobility, and chronic pain that may radiate or refer into other areas of the body.
How PACT Physio & Rehab in Miranda Can Help
We offer evidence-based physiotherapy designed to reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent recurrence of suboccipital triangle dysfunction. Our tailored programs include:
✅ Trigger Point Dry Needling
As experts in dry needling for chronic muscular tension, we use this precise technique to release deep trigger points in the suboccipital muscles, reset neuromuscular activity, and reduce nerve irritation. This often provides immediate relief for headache and neck pain sufferers.
✅ Joint Mobilisation & Manual Therapy
Gentle cervical mobilisation techniques help restore motion between C0–C2 and improve alignment and load distribution across the neck.
✅ Postural Retraining & Ergonomic Advice
We assess your desk setup, screen height, chair position, and posture habits to make real-world changes that reduce muscle overload during work hours.
✅ Home-Based & Gym Rehab Programs
To maintain results, we prescribe targeted strengthening and mobility exercises that you can do from home or your local gym to reduce recurrence and support long-term spinal health.
✅ Telehealth Appointments Available
Can't make it into our Miranda clinic? We offer Australia-wide telehealth physiotherapy for workers with compensable injuries (Workers' Compensation, CTP, Comcare, Early Intervention), including ergonomic assessments and rehab planning.
We Work With:
- Office workers and corporate professionals
- Remote workers and students
- Motor accident (CTP) clients
- Compensable injuries (WorkCover NSW, Comcare, icare, etc.)
- Private patients with chronic pain or desk-related tension
Get Relief From Cervical Spine Pain Today
At PACT Physio & Rehab, we understand how debilitating neck pain and headaches can be—especially when they’re triggered by your job or lifestyle. Whether you're experiencing repetitive strain from desk work, recovering from a motor vehicle accident, or dealing with chronic tension, we’ll tailor a plan that gets you lasting results.
📍 In-person appointments available at our clinic in Miranda, Sutherland Shire
💻 Telehealth available nationwide for eligible workers' compensation claims
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let suboccipital pain take over your day. Book an appointment with Andrew Ellis, physiotherapist and dry needling expert, and start your path to recovery.
👉Book Your Appointment | PACT Physio & Rehab
📞 (02) 8330 6776
