Don't let headaches hold you back!
Headaches: Understanding the Types, Causes & How Osteopathy Can Help
Headaches are incredibly common and can significantly affect your day-to-day life. From dull tension headaches to severe migraines, persistent head pain can reduce your ability to focus, sleep, and enjoy life. Fortunately, osteopathic treatment offers a gentle, effective option for relief.
Types of Headaches
Tension Headaches
These feel like a tight band around the head and are often caused by stress, poor posture, or tight neck and shoulder muscles.
Migraines
Typically intense, often one-sided, and may include nausea, visual disturbances, and light sensitivity. Triggers vary but often include stress, hormonal changes, and food sensitivities.
Cervicogenic Headaches
These start in the neck and radiate toward the forehead or temples. They’re often due to neck joint or muscle dysfunction, posture issues, or previous injury.
Cluster Headaches
Sharp, severe pain around one eye, usually occurring in cyclical “clusters” over weeks. These are less common but very intense.
Self-Help Tips for Headache Relief
Apply heat or cold to the neck, shoulders, or forehead
Stay well hydrated throughout the day
Do regular neck stretches and monitor posture
Take breaks from screens and long periods of sitting
Use stress reduction techniques like breathing exercises or walks
Keep a consistent sleep and meal routine
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
Sudden, severe headache
Headache after trauma or head injury
Persistent or worsening headaches
Headache with fever, confusion, or vision changes
Neurological symptoms like weakness or slurred speech
These may be signs of more serious conditions and should be assessed promptly by a doctor.
How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help with Headaches
As osteopaths, we look beyond the site of pain to find the contributing factors. Headaches are often related to musculoskeletal tension, particularly in the neck, upper back, jaw, and shoulders. Osteopathic treatment involves gentle hands-on techniques to improve mobility, reduce muscular tension, and support circulation and nerve function.
Osteopathy may help relieve headaches by:
Improving neck and upper spine movement
Easing muscle tension in shoulders and neck
Enhancing posture and alignment
Supporting nervous system balance
Providing tailored lifestyle and ergonomic advice
Your treatment is always individualised, safe, and focused on helping your body function at its best.
If you’re tired of recurring headaches and want a natural, hands-on approach to relief, osteopathy might be right for you. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward feeling better.
