Headaches and Migraines

Types of Headaches and Chiropractic Relevance

Headaches fall into different categories. Understanding the type of headache you experience is important in determining whether chiropractic assessment may be helpful.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type. They are typically described as a pressure or tightness across the forehead, back of the head, or both sides of the head. Tension headaches often develop gradually and may be associated with stress, poor posture, or neck muscle tension. These headaches, particularly when accompanied by neck and upper back dysfunction, may respond to chiropractic assessment and care.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches are headaches that arise from dysfunction in the cervical spine or surrounding structures. They typically cause pain that originates at the base of the skull or in the neck, and may radiate forward over the head. These headaches are particularly well-suited to chiropractic assessment. If Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) identifies that your headache is cervicogenic in nature — that is, arising from your neck — chiropractic care may be appropriate.

Migraines

Migraines are a neurological condition characterised by intense, throbbing headache pain, often on one side of the head, and frequently accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and other symptoms. Migraines have various triggers and underlying causes. While some migraines may be associated with neck dysfunction and could potentially benefit from chiropractic assessment, it is important to understand that migraines are not automatically a chiropractic condition. Many migraine sufferers benefit from a multi-disciplinary approach involving their GP, a neurologist, and potentially complementary therapies such as chiropractic care.

Other Types of Headaches

Cluster headaches, sinus headaches, and headaches arising from other medical conditions require appropriate medical assessment. If Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) suspects your headache is not of cervicogenic or musculoskeletal origin, you will be advised to consult your GP or a medical specialist.

Assessing Headaches: A Thorough Approach

Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) takes a detailed history when assessing headaches. You will be asked about:

• When headaches started and how frequently they occur
• The location, character and severity of pain
• What triggers or worsens your headaches
• What relieves your headaches
• Associated symptoms (neck stiffness, visual disturbance, nausea, etc.)
• Your posture, work setup and daily activities
• Any past injuries or trauma

Following the history, a comprehensive physical examination is performed. This includes assessment of your cervical spine, posture, and range of motion. Specific tests help determine whether your cervical spine is contributing to your headaches.

If the assessment suggests that your headaches may have a non-chiropractic origin, appropriate medical referral will be made. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) prioritises your safety and wellbeing above all.

How Chiropractic Care May Assist with Cervicogenic and Tension Headaches

For headaches that are assessed as potentially cervicogenic or musculoskeletal in origin — that is, headaches arising from neck dysfunction, muscle tension, or poor posture — chiropractic care may assist. The aim is to restore normal movement and function to the cervical spine, reduce muscle tension, and improve posture and ergonomics.

Techniques that may be used include:

• Diversified Spinal Adjusting. Restoring normal movement to restricted cervical joints.
• Activator Method. A low-force, instrument-assisted approach suitable for cervical work.
• Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT). A gentle technique that can address cervical and cranial dysfunction.
• Trigenics. A neuromuscular technique to reduce muscle tension and restore proper function.

To learn more about these techniques, visit our Techniques page.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Headaches

Certain headache presentations require prompt medical assessment. You should seek medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache unlike any you have experienced before
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, vision changes, difficulty speaking or weakness
• A headache following a head injury or trauma
• Increasing frequency or severity of headaches
• New headache patterns in older adults

If you have any concerns about your headaches, always consult your GP first. Chiropractic assessment is most appropriately undertaken after serious medical causes have been excluded.

Headaches and Medicare GPCCMP

Chronic headaches may qualify for referral under the Medicare General Practice Care Management Plan (GPCCMP). If your GP determines that your headaches meet the criteria, they can provide a referral, which allows you to access chiropractic care with no gap fee. To learn more, visit our Medicare GPCCMP page.

Posture, Ergonomics and Headache Prevention

Many tension and cervicogenic headaches are related to poor posture and ergonomics. Extended computer and phone use, particularly with the head in a forward position, contributes to neck tension and headaches. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) often discusses practical ergonomic changes that may help prevent headaches, including:

• Positioning your computer monitor at eye level
• Taking regular breaks from screen work
• Using a phone at ear level rather than looking down at it (text neck)
• Ensuring your workplace chair supports the natural curves of your spine
• Adjusting your sleep position and pillow height

These simple changes, combined with chiropractic assessment and care where appropriate, may significantly reduce headache frequency and severity.

Is Chiropractic Care Right for Your Headaches?

The only way to determine whether chiropractic assessment may help your headaches is to have a thorough evaluation by a trained chiropractor. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) is experienced in assessing headaches and will honestly discuss whether your headaches are likely to benefit from chiropractic care. If they are not, you will be advised of alternative options and appropriate referrals will be made.

Centrepoint Chiropractic Clinic takes a patient-first approach, focusing on identifying the true cause of your headaches and offering appropriate care or referral.

Start Your Headache Assessment Today

If you suffer from tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, or migraines associated with neck dysfunction, and you would like to discuss whether chiropractic assessment may help, contact Centrepoint Chiropractic Clinic. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) will conduct a thorough evaluation and discuss your options.

To book your appointment, call Judy on 07 5495 1763. Consultations are available Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.