• Headaches, Migraine & Osteopathy

  • Understanding headaches and migraine, and how osteopathy can help

    The throbbing pain, the sensitivity to light and sound, the sheer inability to function – if you've experienced a significant headache, you understand the profound impact it can have on your life. Recent figures from the World Health Organisation highlight the scale of the problem, reporting that a staggering 4 per cent of adults globally suffer from headache disorders. In Australian alone, the organisation, Migraine & Headache Australia (a division of the Brain Foundation) estimates that it supports more than 6 million Australians affected by headache and migraine.


    For the 90 per cent of migraine sufferers who find themselves unable to perform even the simplest tasks, the disruption extends far beyond work. Family life, social engagements, and even basic self-care can become monumental challenges. Beyond the physical pain, there's a significant
    emotional burden that only those who've experienced it can truly comprehend. Invariably treatment for the relief of headaches and migraine are frequently sought at our osteopathy clinic. Below we have collated an introductory guide, with links to externally respected resources too.

  • What is a headache ?

    A headache is pain in any part of your head, and it is one of the most common ailments experienced by humans. Even though it is common, a headache is not simple. There are many different types, causes, symptoms, and treatments.

    What is a migraine

    A migraine is a common neurological disorder, characterised by moderate to severe headache and nausea. While there is not currently a cure for migraine, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help patients manage their migraine and enjoy a normal life.

  • Understanding Headaches and Migraine

    Headaches and migraines can significantly disrupt your life, but effective relief is possible. At Hills Osteopaths in Castle Hill we offers a holistic approach to managing and treating these conditions. Osteopathic treatment focuses on addressing the root causes of your pain, providing a path to lasting comfort.

    If living with the persistent discomfort of headaches, understanding the type of headache you're experiencing is crucial. Below is an overview :

  • Types of headache

    • Tension Headaches: These are the most common type of headache, often described as a tight band or pressure around the head. The pain is usually mild to moderate and can affect both sides of the head. Tension headaches are often linked to stress, muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, and poor posture. They typically don't involve neurological symptoms like visual disturbances or nausea.
    • Cervicogenic Headaches: These headaches originate from the neck. Pain typically starts in the neck and spreads to the back of the head, often radiating towards the forehead, temples, or eyes. They are often associated with neck stiffness, reduced range of motion, and pain that is aggravated by neck movements or sustained awkward postures. Poor posture, whiplash, or arthritis in the neck can contribute to cervicogenic headaches.
    • Cluster Headaches: These are severe, intensely painful headaches that occur in clusters, often at the same time of day or night for several weeks or months, followed by periods of remission. The pain is usually located around one eye, temple, or forehead and is often accompanied by symptoms like a runny nose, watery eye, drooping eyelid, and restlessness on the affected side. Cluster headaches are relatively rare but can be extremely debilitating.
    • Sinus Headaches: These headaches are caused by inflammation or congestion in the sinus cavities. They are often accompanied by facial pain, pressure, and a stuffy or runny nose. The pain is usually felt in the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes and may worsen with head movements.
    • Rebound Headaches (Medication-Overuse Headaches): Ironically, these headaches can be caused by the frequent use of over-the-counter or prescription pain medications for headaches. As the effects of the medication wear off, the headache returns, leading to a cycle of increasing medication use and worsening headaches.

    Types of migraine

    • Migraine: Migraine are characterized by intense, often throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. They can last from a few hours to several days and are often accompanied by other symptoms 1 such nausea, vomiting, and an increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia). Some people experience an "aura" before or during a migraine, which can include visual disturbances like flashing lights or temporary loss of vision. Hormonal changes, stress, certain foods, and environmental factors can trigger a migraine.
    • Migraine Aura without Headache: Some migraine patients experience aura symptoms (visual, sensory or speech/language issues) without the subsequent head pain. They may experience other symptoms of a migraine attack, such as nausea or sensitivity to light and sound, but without headache. Aura without headache has been reported in previous cases as a result of someone having migraine attacks earlier in life, then the headache stopping as they get older. However, migraine aura can also start later in life (after the age of 40), with a patient never experiencing headache. A doctor should be consulted if these symptoms develop later in life, as some symptoms overlap with brain tumours, TIAs (a “mini-stroke”) and epilepsy.
    • Menstrual Migraine : A menstrual migraine is a type of migraine that only occurs for someone around the time of menstruation. It could either occur as a part of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) or during their period. While the cause of menstrual migraine can’t be definitively identified, it is widely thought to be triggered by the drop in oestrogen
    • Vestibular Migraine : Vestibular migraine is a type of aura characterised by dizziness, vertigo and balance disturbance. In contrast to regular migraine aura, which precedes head pain, vestibular symptoms can persist throughout the entire attack, or even occur in headache-free periods.

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    Did you know that headaches often originate from neck issues ?

    While the head is where the pain is felt, issues in the neck can frequently exacerbate, and even be the primary cause of, various types of headaches. Understanding the different types of headaches is the first step towards finding effective relief. While tension headaches are often linked to neck tension, and cervicogenic headaches directly originate from the neck, problems in the cervical spine can also contribute to or worsen other types of headaches, including migraine. Misalignments, muscle imbalances, and restricted movement in the neck can affect nerve pathways and blood flow to the head, potentially making individuals more susceptible to headaches or increasing their severity.

  • Osteopathy: A Gentle Approach to Headache Relief

    Osteopathy offers a holistic healthcare approach that focuses on the intricate connection between the body's structure and its overall function. Osteopaths are highly trained to assess and treat musculoskeletal imbalances throughout the body, paying particular attention to the spine, muscles, and joints, which can play a significant role in various types of headaches.


    When it comes to headaches, an osteopath will take acomprehensive approach, considering not just your head, but also the posture,
    movement, and tension in your neck and upper back. Through gentle, hands-on techniques, an osteopath can help to:

    • Release muscle tension: Addressing tightness in the neck, shoulders, and head that can contribute to tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches, and potentially exacerbate migraines.
    • Improve joint mobility: Restoring proper movement to the joints in the neck and upper back, reducing stiffness and strain that can trigger or worsen headaches. This is particularly important for cervicogenic headaches.
    • Promote better posture: Providing guidance and treatment to address postural imbalances that may be contributing to tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches.
    • Reduce nerve irritation: Gently addressing any compression or irritation of the nerves in the neck that can refer pain to the head, a key factor in cervicogenic headaches.
    • Enhance overall well-being: By addressing the physical contributors to your headaches, osteopathy can help to reduce their frequency and intensity, leading to an improved quality of life, regardless of the specific type of headache you experience.

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  • Frequently Asked Questions About Headaches and Osteopathy

    Understanding Osteopathy for Headaches: Common Questions

    Q: Can osteopathy help with migraines?

    A: Osteopathy can play a supportive role in managing migraines. By addressing tension in the neck and upper back, improving posture, and promoting overall relaxation, osteopathic treatment may help to reduce the frequency and severity of some migraines, especially those that are cervicogenic in origin or exacerbated by neck problems.

    Q: How many osteopathic sessions will I need for my headaches?

    A: The number of sessions varies depending on the individual and the complexity of their condition, as well as the type of headache. Following an initial assessment with an osteopath at Hills Osteopaths we will discuss a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Some people experience relief after just a few sessions, while others with chronic or complex issues may require more.

    Q: What should I expect during an osteopathic treatment for headaches?

    A: Osteopathic treatment involves gentle, hands-on techniques. Your osteopath may use massage, articulation (gentle joint movements), stretching, and mobilization to address muscle tension and joint stiffness in your neck, upper back, and head. The treatment is typically not
    painful, although you may experience some mild discomfort or stiffness afterwards, similar to how you might feel after exercise.

    Q: Is osteopathy a long-term solution for headaches?

    A: Osteopathy aims to address the underlying musculoskeletal factors contributing to your headaches, offering the potential for long-term relief. Your osteopath will also provide advice on posture, exercises, and lifestyle modifications to help you manage your condition and prevent future problems, regardless of the headache type.

    Q: How do I know if my headache is cervicogenic and if osteopathy can help?

    A: A thorough assessment by a qualified osteopath is the best way to determine if your headaches are cervicogenic or if musculoskeletal issues in your neck are contributing to other types of headaches. We will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and assess the movement and posture of your neck and upper back. Based on this assessment, we can advise you on whether osteopathic treatment is likely to be beneficial.

    Q: Are there any risks associated with osteopathic treatment for headaches?

    A: Osteopathy is generally considered a safe andgentle treatment. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as mild soreness or stiffness. Your osteopath at Hills Osteopaths will discuss any potential risks with you before starting treatment.

  • Contact us for a qualified consultation today

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