Migraines and headaches affect more than 5 million Australians.
Migraines, in particular, are far more than "just a headache" and can significantly impact work, family life, sleep, movement and overall wellbeing.
What is a migraine?
A migraine is a complex neurological condition that commonly causes moderate to severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. Many people also experience nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, sound or smells, and some experience visual disturbances (known as an aura) before the headache begins. Migraines can be triggered by a range of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, poor sleep, dehydration, certain foods, environmental changes and muscle tension.
Treatment often involves identifying and managing triggers, lifestyle modifications, prescribed or over-the-counter medications, and allied health support. Osteopathy may form part of a multidisciplinary approach by addressing musculoskeletal factors that may contribute to symptoms.
What are the most common types of headaches?
The most common headache is a tension-type headache, which typically presents as a dull, aching pain or a feeling of tightness or pressure around the forehead, temples or back of the head. These headaches are often associated with muscle tension, stress, prolonged sitting, poor posture or jaw clenching.
Another common type is a cervicogenic headache, where pain originates from structures within the neck. These headaches often begin at the base of the skull and may radiate to the forehead, temple or behind the eye. Neck stiffness, reduced movement and pain with certain neck positions are common features.
Management of headaches depends on the underlying cause and may include education, exercise, stress management, medications where appropriate and manual therapy. Osteopathic treatment aims to improve movement, reduce muscular tension and address contributing biomechanical factors.
Osteopathy may help support people living with migraines and headaches by addressing contributing tension, postural strain and musculoskeletal dysfunction throughout the body.
How osteopathic treatment may help:
Reduce muscular tension through the neck, jaw and shoulders.
Improve mobility through the cervical and upper thoracic spine.
Support nervous system regulation and relaxation.
Address posture and movement patterns contributing to symptoms.
Help reduce headache frequency and intensity.
Support recovery from stress-related tension headaches.
Treatment is tailored to the individual and may focus on areas such as the neck, jaw (TMJ), upper back, diaphragm and surrounding connective tissues.
If migraines or headaches are affecting your daily life, our friendly osteopathy team is here to support you with hands-on, individualised care.