Headaches can be a physically difficult and daunting experience. Those who unfortunately experience severe ones may even be restricted from work, social time, hobbies, and other activities.
If you experience frequent headaches or migraines, you may benefit from myofascial release, a treatment that targets the body’s deep connective tissue to ease muscle tension and restore functions in the back, neck, jaw, and shoulders.
The osteopathic therapists at Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery in Victoria BC, and Burnaby, BC offer myofascial release to relieve pain in the head and neck. If you’ve been experiencing persistent headaches, our team is here to help. Contact us today to make your first appointment!
Symptoms of Headaches and Migraines
Headaches or migraines have many different symptoms and causes. One person may have a mild yet persistent headache for days, while others experience a sudden and severe migraine that lasts only a few hours. Furthermore, headache symptoms can vary each time an episode occurs.
Here are some common sensations during a headache or migraine:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Light and noise sensitivity
- Upset stomach/loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness and vertigo
What Are the Different Types of Headaches?
It may come as a surprise, but there are over 150 types of headaches. They are typically divided into two categories: primary and secondary.
Primary headaches aren’t caused by an underlying medical condition. Rather, they are considered clinical diagnoses, which means that they do not require a blood test or imaging study to diagnose. Migraines are typically primary headaches.
A secondary headache is typically a symptom of another health issue. Sinus headaches are a good example; they develop due to inflammation in your sinus cavities.
Those who have suffered a concussion, whiplash injury, or other head and neck injury are more susceptible to headaches and migraines.
While the causes of headaches and migraines aren’t always known, they’re often triggered by different factors, such as lack of sleep or certain scents. Our therapists can educate you about the different types of headaches and which category aligns with your symptoms. We’ll also help you identify headache triggers, which can help with long-term relief.
The Role of Myofascial Release in Treating Headaches
Myofascial release is a manual approach to healing that focuses on treating pain from the body’s myofascial tissues. Your muscles are wrapped, connected, and supported by these tough membranes. When they’re healthy, they move with you. But sometimes, trigger points can develop in the myofascia, leading to referred pain throughout your body–including headaches.
During myofascial release, your osteopathic therapist will use their hands to work out any trigger points or other restrictions in your myofascia. The focused pressure and stretching in myofascial release can help relieve tight muscles and restricted movement, reducing headache pain.
In addition, the treatment relaxes and restores circulation to the tissues in the back, neck, shoulders, and jaw, which are commonly associated with headaches.
Find Relief At Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery Today!
Headache pain can take a lot out of you, which is why our therapists are eager to help guide you through a personalized treatment program. Our ultimate goal is to improve our patient’s quality of life by addressing their pain at its source.
If you’ve been experiencing pain, don’t hesitate to contact Jenna Howe & Associates Osteopathy and Concussion Recovery today!
