Headaches and migraines are common and can range from mild tension across the head to severe, disabling episodes. Many are influenced by neck posture, muscle tension, stress, sleep and hydration — factors that can often be assessed and supported.
What are headaches and migraines?
Headaches describe pain in the head, face or upper neck. Tension-type headaches often feel like a tight band around the head, cervicogenic headaches are related to the neck, and migraines are a distinct condition that can involve one-sided throbbing pain, sensitivity to light or sound, and nausea.
Common symptoms
- A dull, tight or pressing pain across the head
- Pain that starts in the neck and radiates to the head
- Throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of the head
- Sensitivity to light, sound or smells
Common contributing factors
Long hours of desk or device use, poor posture, muscle tension in the upper neck and shoulders, stress, dehydration and disrupted sleep can all play a role. Identifying and addressing the everyday habits that feed into these patterns is an important part of care.
How headaches may be assessed
A chiropractic assessment usually includes a detailed history, postural analysis and examination of the neck and upper back. The goal is to understand what type of headache you're experiencing and what may be contributing to it, so care can be tailored to your situation.
General management considerations
- Take regular movement breaks from desk and device work
- Keep well hydrated and maintain consistent sleep patterns
- Support your neck with a comfortable pillow and set-up
- Consider tailored mobility and strengthening exercises
When to seek professional advice
See a healthcare professional if headaches are frequent, worsening, or interfering with daily life. Seek urgent medical assessment for a sudden severe 'thunderclap' headache, a headache after a head injury, or one associated with fever, confusion, weakness, changes in vision, difficulty speaking or loss of coordination.
How chiropractic care may help
At APEX. Chiro Gregory Hills we take time to understand your headache patterns and assess how your neck and upper back are moving. Care is gentle, specific and tailored, and outcomes vary from person to person.
The information on this page is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual healthcare advice.