There are several reasons for headaches.The majority of headaches are caused by prolonged muscle tightness, stress-related tension, sinus pressure and/or improper posture. Osteopathy is an excellent adjunct to treatment that can provide relief in all of these areas.
Gentle massage to the tight muscles and manipulation to loosen the joints of the neck, thorax and back can relieve the build-up of muscular tension that may lead to headaches. Osteopaths can also advise on exercise and lifestyle changes and offer guidance on simple changes to your posture which may help when at work or driving.
Treatment of Headaches
As well as being symptoms of other conditions, headache disorders can lead to the development of other illnesses. Depression is three times more common in individuals with severe headaches than in healthy people. The establishment of an accurate diagnosis through a careful history and physical examination is essential before your osteopath can develop an effective treatment plan. The causes of headaches are wide and varied, so treatment must be individualized. One common type of headache is caused by restrictions in the joints of the neck and back. Nerves that exit the spinal column can become irritated causing pain at the base of the skull, top of the head, and behind the eyes. This may occur as a result of a neck injury such as whiplash, postural problems, stress and compensatory change. All of these issues can be treated effectively with osteopathy, thereby getting rid of the headache for good.
How can an Osteopath Help?
Osteopathy is a gentle and non-invasive alternative and complementary therapy that allows the body to function correctly. Using manual techniques to highlight areas of tension and blockages, an osteopath relieves constriction so the body can use its own natural ability to overcome illness or disease which in turn eases pain. With treatment, muscle spasms relax, allowing better movement and drainage of body fluids. You may also receive advice about posture, stress relief, supplements/diet, exercises and stretches to assist the treatment.
Who do we treat?
Osteopathic patients include the young, older people, manual workers, office professionals, pregnant women, children and sports people. If you want to find out more, any registered osteopath will be happy to talk to you about your health and how you may benefit from osteopathic treatment. Osteopaths are trained to check for signs of serious conditions they cannot treat. In these circumstances, we will refer you to see your GP or hospital for further investigation.