Scott Baxter talks about Osteopathic treatment for Headaches
Headaches (cervicogenic headaches) can come from neck problems. This is quite common and under-recognised. Osteopathy is a great option to reduce pain and correct the imbalance. Cervicogenic headaches are headaches which result from spinal problems in the neck.
A very common cause of headaches can be from muscle tension or joint strain of the upper back and neck. This is where your osteopath can help. Modern life can be very stressful and this can cause people to hold increased levels of muscle tension through their upper back, shoulders and neck. In some people this can trigger a tension headache (or cervicogenic headache). These tension-type headaches can be incredibly debilitating and limit our ability to function properly in our day-to-day lives.
Tension headaches are usually located at the back of the head and the upper neck, known as the sub-occipital area. They can radiate from the back of the head up to the top or the front of the head. The severity and length of time they occur in tension headaches will vary.
Using very gentle manual therapy, osteopathic treatment aims to reduce the muscle tension in the upper back and neck. Treatment also aims to normalise any imbalance and tension in the joints in the upper neck, and the base of the skull where it sits on top of the neck. Osteopathic treatment can treat the muscles, ligaments and joints of the spine, particularly the neck.
Once normal function is restored to the neck and muscle tension is reduced, the pain and congestion (inflammation) in the neck should start to ease. The severity and duration of the tension headache will also reduce. As a result of easing pain and normalising function in your body, your quality of life and well-being will improve.
For more information on what else osteopaths can treat click HERE
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