The splenius muscle of the neck, also known as the splenius cervicis, is a smaller muscle that is positioned slightly below the splenius capitis. Damage or injury to either splenius muscle can cause neck pain, headaches, facial pain, or shoulder pain. Oftentimes physical therapy, stretching, ice, or heat can help to alleviate the pain.

A headache stemming from injury to the splenius capitis often mimics a migraine headache. Symptoms of splenius capitis syndrome include: Pain at the back of the head Headache at the temples Pressure or pain behind the eye Pain above or under the eye Sensitivity to light Neck or arm pain