Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines are among the most common conditions we see at Osteopathy Nelson. They can be occasional and mild, or persistent and debilitating, affecting every aspect of life — work, family time, sleep, and overall wellbeing. While pain relief is important, our osteopathic approach goes beyond symptom management to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to your discomfort.
Understanding the Difference
Headaches come in many forms — tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck), sinus headaches, and cluster headaches. They can be triggered by muscle tension, poor posture, stress, dehydration, eye strain, or hormonal changes.
Migraines are more complex. They often present as severe, throbbing pain (typically on one side of the head) and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, or sensitivity to light, sound, and smells. Migraines can last for hours or even days and may be triggered by certain foods, hormonal fluctuations, stress, environmental factors, or sensory overload.
An accurate understanding of the type of headache or migraine you experience is key to effective management.
How Osteopathy Can Help
Osteopathy offers a gentle, whole-body approach to care. Our aim is to reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of headaches or migraines by restoring optimal function to the musculoskeletal system and supporting the body’s self-healing capacity.
Treatment may involve:
Soft tissue techniques to release tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Joint mobilisation to improve movement in the spine and reduce nerve irritation.
Cranial osteopathy to address subtle tensions in the head and face.
Postural assessment and advice to reduce strain caused by work, technology use, or repetitive habits.
Lifestyle recommendations including stretches, relaxation techniques, and self-care strategies.
Our osteopaths take the time to listen, understand your history, and consider how stress, posture, past injuries, jaw function, or even digestive health may be linked to your symptoms.
Why Headaches Happen
Headaches and migraines are rarely caused by one single factor. Often, they are the result of multiple elements working together, such as:
Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Reduced spinal mobility.
Previous head, neck, or back injuries.
Stress and fatigue.
Eye strain from prolonged screen time.
Hormonal fluctuations.
Certain foods, dehydration, or skipping meals.
By identifying these contributing factors, we can create a tailored treatment plan to address the root causes rather than just mask the pain.
When to Seek Help Urgently
While most headaches are not a sign of serious illness, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Sudden, severe headache unlike anything you’ve had before.
Headache after head injury.
Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, rash, or confusion.
Changes in vision, speech, or balance.
Weakness or numbness in the face, arms, or legs.
If you’re unsure, we can help you decide whether osteopathic care is appropriate or if referral to another health professional is needed.
Our Approach at Osteopathy Nelson
We believe that effective care for headaches and migraines is collaborative. We work closely with you to understand patterns, triggers, and lifestyle factors, and where necessary, may liaise with your GP, optometrist, or other healthcare providers for a holistic plan.
Many of our patients report improvements not only in headache frequency and severity but also in sleep quality, energy levels, and overall wellbeing after a course of osteopathic treatment.
Taking the Next Step
If headaches or migraines are affecting your quality of life, you don’t need to simply “put up with them.” At Osteopathy Nelson, we offer skilled, gentle, and personalised treatment designed to support your body’s natural balance and reduce your symptoms.
Book an appointment today and take the first step towards clearer, calmer, and pain-free days.