How can Osteopathy help with Headaches & Migraines?
Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), has shown promising results as a complementary approach for managing headaches and migraines. The following is a summary of the benefits and the mechanisms…
Potential Benefits of Osteopathy for Headaches and Migraines
Reduction in Pain Intensity and Frequency:
Clinical trials and systematic reviews indicate that OMT can reduce the intensity, frequency, and duration of headaches, including migraines and tension-type headaches (TTHs).
Some studies suggest that OMT may be as effective as certain medications, such as amitriptyline, in reducing headache pain.
Improved Quality of Life:
OMT has been associated with better functional outcomes and quality of life for headache sufferers by addressing musculoskeletal dysfunctions i.e. neck pain.
Decreased Medication Use:
Patients receiving OMT have reported reduced reliance on medications for headache management, which may lower the risk of medication overuse headaches.
Safety Profile:
OMT is generally considered safe, with mild side effects such as temporary soreness being the most commonly reported issues. Serious adverse events are rare.
Mechanisms of Action
Musculoskeletal Adjustments:
OMT targets musculoskeletal dysfunctions, particularly in the cervical spine, neck, and jaw regions, which are often implicated in headache pathophysiology.
Techniques like myofascial release improve tissue mobility and blood flow, potentially alleviating headache triggers.
Neurological Effects:
OMT may modulate the autonomic nervous system by increasing parasympathetic tone and reducing pro-inflammatory molecules such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is linked to migraine pathogenesis.
Reduction of Central Sensitisation:
Chronic headaches are associated with central sensitisation and dysregulated pain pathways. OMT may help normalise these pathways by addressing peripheral triggers and improving neural function.
