OsteoVHeadaches we help with
Clear explanations of the conditions we see most, and how we approach them. This is information, not a diagnosis. If something here sounds like you, that is a good reason to book.
Episodic and chronic migraine
What it is. A neurological condition, not simply a bad headache. It can come with or without aura, and ranges from occasional attacks to near-daily symptoms.
How it feels. Often throbbing and one-sided, with sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes nausea. Movement can make it worse.
How we help. Careful assessment to understand your pattern and triggers, hands-on treatment where useful, and support with the wider picture of sleep, lifestyle and, where needed, medical management.
Tension-type headache
What it is. The most common headache. Usually less disabling than migraine but often persistent.
How it feels. A tight, pressing, band-like ache on both sides, sometimes with tenderness across the neck and shoulders.
How we help. Assessment of the neck, jaw and upper spine, hands-on treatment, and practical guidance on posture, stress and daily habits that feed the pattern.
Cluster headache and other TACs
What it is. A group of severe headaches known as trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias, including cluster headache.
How it feels. Intense, one-sided attacks that come in patterns, often with a watering eye, drooping lid or blocked nose on the same side.
How we help. These conditions warrant specialist medical assessment. We help you recognise the pattern, support your wider care, and make sure you reach the right specialist quickly.
Cervicogenic and neck-related headache
What it is. Headache referred from the neck and upper spine, where osteopathic assessment is especially relevant.
How it feels. Often one-sided, starting at the base of the skull or neck and spreading forward, sometimes linked to movement or posture.
How we help. Detailed examination of the neck and upper spine, hands-on treatment, and a plan to address the mechanics keeping the pain going.
What can feed into a headache
Headache rarely has a single cause. We look at the factors that often sit alongside it.
- Sleep
- Posture
- Jaw tension (TMJ)
- Stress
- Neck and shoulder dysfunction
- Diet and hydration
How we treat
A holistic toolkit, chosen to fit your assessment rather than a fixed protocol.
Osteopathy
Hands-on assessment and treatment of the head, neck, spine and related structures.
Dry needling
Fine needling of muscular trigger points to ease tension and referred pain.
Shockwave therapy
Focused acoustic therapy used where it suits the presentation.
Nutritional guidance
Practical, evidence-informed advice on diet, hydration and triggers.
Lifestyle and sleep
Support with the daily habits that influence headache frequency and severity.
Medical advocacy
Help to navigate GP and specialist care, with onward referral when needed.
When to seek urgent care
Some symptoms need prompt medical attention rather than an osteopathy appointment. Call 999 or go to A&E if you have a sudden, severe "thunderclap" headache that peaks within seconds or minutes, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, new weakness, numbness, confusion or difficulty speaking, a headache after a significant head injury, or the worst headache of your life. If in doubt, seek medical advice first. We would always rather you were safe.
Recognise yourself here?
Booking is the quickest way to start. If you are not sure whether we can help, send a message and ask.
