Headaches

Most of us know the pain and discomfort associated with a headache. Whether it be from your team losing after the siren, not having enough water or suffering from caffeine withdrawals with approximately 75% of all people having reported a headache in the previous year. (World health organisation)

Here is some advice to assist you in self managing your headaches.

Drink plenty of water –

Keeping well hydrated can assist in preventing headaches from occurring.

It is recommended that we drink 2.5 litres for males, 2 litres for females per day.

Manage your caffeine intake –

Try to limit and manage your daily intake of caffeine. Whether it be from coffee, tea, energy drinks or caffeinated soft drinks like coke; consuming too much caffeine can contribute to headaches.

Get a good night’s sleep – Sleeping for 8 hours or more per night has been linked to reducing headaches and stress levels.

Reduce stress levels – Often easier said than done, but addressing some unnecessary stressors in your life can assist in reducing tension headaches. Mediation and yoga have both been found to decrease stress levels.

Medication – Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can temporarily assist in reducing pain associated with headaches.

HOW OSTEOPATHS CAN HELP –

Your osteopath headache will assist to diagnose your headache. Did you know there are many different types of headaches? With the 2 most common types being tension headaches and cervicogenic (neck related) headaches.

Your osteopath is also trained to identify the small percentage of headaches that may be more serious and require immediate action or referral.

Treatment – may involve both direct and indirect technique used to address the cause of your pain as well as to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with your headache. Your osteopath will assist in a management plan for treating and managing your headaches. Which will include both advice and exercises to help reduce the aggravating factors.