Complaints

Headaches and migraines

Headaches are a common complaint; most people take paracetamol, and the pain often subsides on its own. However, not all headaches are the same. Tension headaches and migraines are two common forms that differ greatly in symptoms, impact, and cause.

Headaches and migraines

Osteopathy for tension headaches
and migraines

Tension headaches and migraines are often caused by a combination of factors such as neck blockages, muscle tension, poor posture, and disrupted blood circulation. Sometimes, movement restrictions in the organ system, which affect the neck via the nervous system, can cause headaches. These factors can increase the frequency and intensity of headaches.

Osteopathy addresses these issues by focusing on improving mobility and restoring physical balance. This is done by directly tackling the underlying causes of the headaches.

The benefits of osteopathy

For headaches and migraines

Osteopathic treatments offer several benefits; they provide pain relief, improve sleep quality, and can help reduce dependence on medication. Moreover, these treatments have a preventive effect: they help reduce the frequency of recurring headaches and migraines.

Treatment techniques

For headaches and migraines

Our osteopath treats tension headaches and migraines with a range of osteopathic techniques aimed at reducing muscle tension, improving blood circulation, and optimizing body posture. These treatments include spinal mobilizations, craniosacral techniques, visceral techniques, connective tissue techniques, and sometimes neck manipulations. This combination is effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of headaches.

Additionally, our osteopath uses specific exercises to support the healing process and reduce headache symptoms as quickly as possible.

Mobilization techniques

Improve joint movement and flexibility, stimulate blood flow, optimize engorgement and promote mobility, supporting natural recovery.

Connective tissue techniques

Various techniques that reduce tension in muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue. These techniques focus on loosening adhesions, improving blood circulation and promoting relaxation.

Manipulation techniques

Gentle techniques that improve joint mobility and release blockages in the body.

Visceral techniques

Targeted manual techniques around internal organs that improve the recovery and mobility of the connective tissue around these organs.

Craniosacral techniques

Gentle techniques on the skull that target the nervous system and the mobility of the skull to reduce tension and blockages.

Headaches and migraines

What to expect
from the treatment?

At your first visit to OsteoPlaza, we start with a thorough intake where we discuss your medical history and symptoms. Based on this, we develop a personalized treatment strategy. During the treatment, we use various osteopathic techniques to improve the mobility and functionality of the body. These include visceral techniques, manipulations, mobilizations, and stretching techniques, all aimed at resolving movement restrictions and blockages.

 

Clients can experience improvements in their pain and mobility during and after treatments. The duration and frequency of treatments depend on the severity of your symptoms and personal factors such as psychological stress. Our goal is to provide an effective and long-lasting solution for your headaches.

Frequently asked questions

What does an osteopath do for tension headaches?

An osteopath looks for muscle tension and movement restrictions in the neck, shoulders and back that contribute to tension headaches. Gentle techniques reduce these tensions, relieving pain.

Can osteopathy help with migraines?

Yes, osteopathy can help with migraines by addressing underlying tension in the body. An osteopath can use gentle techniques to reduce tension, improve circulation and calm the nervous system.

How does osteopathy differ from other treatments like physiotherapy?

An osteopath looks for the root cause of complaints. This involves looking at the whole body and considering it as an integrated system. A physical therapist focuses only on the region where the symptoms are located and makes greater use of exercises to reduce these symptoms. Osteopathy takes a more “hands-on” approach. This is done by moving tissues (e.g., joints, muscles and connective tissue around organs) with the hands.

What is the difference between osteopathy and manual therapy or chiropractic?

Although osteopathy, manual therapy and chiropractic all use manual techniques, they differ in their philosophy and approach. Osteopaths look even more for the deeper underlying cause and treat more different systems such as the organ system and focus more on connective tissues such as the fascias.

What should you avoid after an osteopathy treatment?

After osteopathic treatment, it is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity and not engage in intense sports for at least 24 to 48 hours. It is also wise not to drink alcohol or undergo other therapies that may overload the body, to give the body time to recover and respond to treatment.

Is osteopathy scientifically based?

Yes, osteopathy is substantiated by research demonstrating its effectiveness for certain conditions such as abdominal pain, headaches, back pain, neck pain and other musculoskeletal complaints. Research in osteopathy is constantly growing and evolving.

Do I need a referral from a GP?

No, a doctor’s referral is not necessary to visit an osteopath. Clients can make an appointment right away.

Is osteopathy covered by health insurance?

Osteopathy is often partially covered under supplementary insurance policies. It is advisable to check your policy or contact your insurer for specific coverage.