We all know what it’s like to experience a headache, but could your neck really be the cause to your headache.
The simple answer is YES!
When headaches arise from the neck, they are known as cervicogenic headaches. By definition this means that the pain you’re experiencing in the form of a headache is referred from a pain source within the neck. The common pain referral sites include the upper most vertebrae of the neck and the associated discs, joints, and muscles. We commonly become symptomatic in these areas following stress, strain and/or excessive loading on the neck.
Posture plays an important role in loading of the neck muscles. Significantly in more slumped style postures the posterior neck muscles work harder to maintain support and stabilise the neck and in doing so become tight and over-strained.
Other factors such as emotional or workplace stress can correlate to the tension build up in the neck and shoulder muscles, affecting our bodies in a similar way to poor posture. Hence we often see a pattern form in our onset of cervicogenic headaches in times of stress.
How can Osteopathy help!
Osteopathy provides an effective approach to the treatment and prevention of cervicogenic headaches, by providing practical pain management. This is achieved by addressing tension and imbalances of the musculoskeletal structures of the head, neck and back to restore balance and reduce symptoms.
Your Osteopath may use joint mobilisations and manipulations, soft tissue work, myofascial release and cranial osteopathy to improve your symptoms. In addition, advice is provided to help you identify and manage your triggers to reduce the frequency of your headaches and track symptom onset and progress better.
Need help with your headaches get in touch to find out more and book an appointment with Laura Fishlock Osteopathy.