What are headaches?
Cervicogenic and tension-type headaches are common.
Tension-type headaches are often linked to tension and tightness in the muscles of the neck, scalp, and shoulders. They have also been linked to other factors such as dehydration, stress, lack of sleep and postural influence.
Cervicogenic headaches originate from the cervical spine (neck) and as with tension headaches, these can be also be linked with neck muscle tightness. Degenerative changes, herniated discs and whiplash type injuries could also be contributing factors.
Symptoms:
Cervicogenic headaches tend to start in the neck & radiate to the back of the head, temples and/or behind the eyes. These usually occur on one side of the head and can be triggered by specific neck movements. Tension-type headaches tend to affect both sides of the head, and are typically described as a dull constant ache which can spread to the neck and shoulders.
How can Osteopathy help?
Osteopathy uses a holistic approach to treat headaches arising from the neck by focusing on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the cervical spine and related structures. Osteopathic treatment uses gentle hands-on manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and improve joint function. These may include soft tissue massage, stretching, and gentle joint manipulation. Some of our osteopaths may use gentle, soothing cranial techniques which are focused on the head and spine. If cranial is a specific request of yours, please let us know before booking an appointment so we can make sure you are seeing a practitioner who uses cranial techniques.
Your practitioner may also give you recommendations on how to improve your posture during daily activities such as work and sleep to help manage your symptoms. We will often advise on specific exercises to help strengthen and stretch your neck and upper back.
Osteopathy can be a valuable part of an integrative approach to managing headaches. It can be used alongside other treatments such as medication, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Individuals experiencing headaches should work with their healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
By addressing the root causes of headaches and improving the function of the cervical spine and surrounding structures, osteopathy can help reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of these headaches, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected.
Osteopaths are trained to screen for medical conditions. If the cause of your headaches is not thought to be musculoskeletal, you may need to be referred to another healthcare practitioner.
Migraines
Migraines are intense, that tend to be a throbbing pain on one side of the head. They can last from between 2 hours – 3 days and can make you feel very tired. Some people get warning signs known as ‘aura’, before a migraine occurs.
It is not known what causes migraines, however there are things you can do to try and help manage them such as staying well hydrated, managing stress and avoiding particular triggers which could be certain foods.
How can Osteopathy help?
Osteopathic treatment may help to prevent and manage migraines through a combination of techniques to address musculoskeletal factors that may be contributing to migraines. As with headaches, these may include soft tissue massage, stretching, and gentle joint manipulation to help with tight muscles and improve movement. Some of our osteopaths may use gentle, soothing cranial techniques which are focused on the head and spine. If cranial is a specific request of yours, please let us know before booking an appointment so we can make sure you are seeing a practitioner who uses cranial techniques.
Osteopaths are trained to screen for medical conditions. If your osteopath feels your migraines need further investigation, you may need to be referred to another healthcare practitioner.
