Pain at the base of the skull isn’t just a stiff neck or sore muscles—it can be a major clue pointing to deeper neurological issues. This area is where several cranial nerves originate or pass through, making it a critical zone for proper brain-body communication. When something’s off here, it can start a chain reaction that goes far beyond local pain. Cranial nerve dysfunction can lead to a wide range of symptoms: dizziness, brain fog, facial tingling, digestive issues, anxiety, and even heart