Headaches

The dura mater is a thin membrane that surrounds and protects the brain. When stressed, the dura mater spasms near the small muscles at the base of the skull. These spasms transmit pain signals to the brain, resulting in headaches. Repetitive movements or poor neck/head posture can cause these spasms as well as inflammation.

Cervicogenic headaches are most likely caused by pain in the top three cervical vertebrae in your spine. These headaches can be caused by concussions, arthritis, or work-related muscle strain. These headaches are more common in people who work in jobs that require a down-turned head or neck motion on a regular basis or people with food sensitivities.

Musculoskeletal headaches can be caused by excessive pressure on the neck. Muscle imbalances, postural problems, or injury are the most common causes, but emotional stress and even your gut can also play a role. Whiplash, like other neck injuries, can strain muscles and connective tissues, resulting in musculoskeletal headaches.

A neurological condition can cause migraines. They have the potential to cause acute or chronic sensitization of specific areas of the brain and nerves that supply sensation to the head and face. The exact cause of migraines is unknown, but environmental triggers are often a cause.

A combination of factors such as your diet, emotional stress, abnormal postures, and neck/head muscle joint problems can contribute to the migraines. By addressing “triggers” whether they be muscular trigger points in the head, neck, jaw, and face, or foods or an imbalance of hormones in your system, your therapist can reduce the severity and frequency of your migraine episodes or even eliminate them for good.

Mixed headaches are related to chronic daily headaches. This means that cervicogenic, tension or migraine headaches could be causing your pain, as well as medication overuse, food sensitivities, poor gut health or rebound headaches.