Headaches and Osteopathy: Understanding the Musculoskeletal Approach
Headaches are common and can vary widely in their causes, symptoms, frequency, and severity. Some people also notice neck stiffness, upper-back tension, jaw discomfort, or changes in mobility when experiencing headaches.
At Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Clinic in Fonthill, manual osteopathy includes hands-on assessment of movement and musculoskeletal function based on each person's health history and presenting concerns.
Headaches and the Musculoskeletal System
Headaches can have many different causes, and not all headaches are related to the muscles or joints.
When appropriate, an osteopathic assessment may consider areas such as:
Neck mobility
Upper-back mobility
Shoulder movement
Muscle tension
Jaw movement
Posture and positioning
Previous musculoskeletal injuries
Movement patterns associated with work or daily activities
The purpose of the assessment is to better understand how relevant areas of the musculoskeletal system are moving and functioning.
How Does Osteopathy Approach Headache-Related Concerns?
Manual osteopathy uses hands-on assessment and treatment to examine mobility and function within the musculoskeletal system.
For someone experiencing headaches alongside neck, shoulder, upper-back, or jaw-related concerns, an osteopathic practitioner may assess these areas to determine whether mobility or musculoskeletal factors are relevant to the individual's presentation.
Treatment is individualized according to the person's assessment findings, health history, and needs.
Tension-Type Headaches
Tension-type headaches are commonly described as pressure or tightness around the head.
Some people experiencing these headaches may also notice muscle tension or stiffness around the neck, shoulders, or upper back.
Where appropriate, these areas may be included in an osteopathic musculoskeletal assessment.
Headaches Associated With the Neck
Some headaches can be associated with structures in the neck.
An osteopathic practitioner may assess cervical movement, upper-back mobility, and other relevant musculoskeletal areas when a person reports headache symptoms alongside neck discomfort or restricted movement.
Jaw-Related Headache Symptoms
Jaw clenching, grinding, or changes in jaw movement may sometimes occur alongside discomfort in the face, temples, neck, or head.
When relevant, jaw movement and surrounding musculoskeletal structures may be considered during assessment.
What About Migraines?
Migraines are a neurological condition and can involve symptoms such as headache pain, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and visual disturbances.
Manual osteopathy should not be presented as a treatment or cure for migraine.
A person with migraine symptoms should discuss appropriate diagnosis and management with a qualified healthcare provider.
What to Expect During an Osteopathic Appointment
An osteopathic appointment begins with a health history and assessment.
Depending on the individual's concern, the practitioner may assess:
Neck movement
Upper-back mobility
Shoulder movement
Jaw movement
Relevant muscles and connective tissues
Posture and movement patterns
Hands-on osteopathic techniques may then be selected according to the assessment findings and the individual's needs.
When Should Headaches Be Medically Assessed?
Headaches can sometimes require medical evaluation.
Seek appropriate medical care for headaches that are:
Sudden and unusually severe
New or significantly different from your usual headaches
Associated with significant trauma
Accompanied by weakness, numbness, confusion, fainting, or difficulty speaking
Associated with fever or other concerning symptoms
Increasing in frequency or severity
Osteopathy in Fonthill, Pelham and Niagara Region
Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Clinic is located in Fonthill and provides manual osteopathy for individuals from Pelham and surrounding Niagara communities, including Welland, Port Colborne, Niagara Falls, Thorold, St. Catharines, and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
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Published by Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Clinic Inc.