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Headaches & Migraines Treatment

Physiotherapy treatment for chronic headaches and migraines in South Surrey. Relief from tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and migraine symptoms.

Book Appointment Call +1 604 923 8323
Prevalence

47% of adults have headaches annually

Common Age

Most common ages 25-55

Recovery Time

4-8 weeks for significant improvement

Coverage

Covered by extended health

Symptoms & Causes

Common Symptoms
  • Dull, aching head pain
  • Pressure or tightness around forehead or sides
  • Pain originating from neck or base of skull
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Nausea with severe headaches
  • Pain that worsens with neck movement
  • Tender scalp or neck muscles
  • Headaches triggered by stress or posture
Common Causes
  • Neck joint dysfunction (cervicogenic headaches)
  • Muscle tension in neck and shoulders
  • Poor posture, especially forward head position
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Eye strain from screens
  • TMJ dysfunction
  • Dehydration and poor sleep
  • Hormonal changes

How We Treat Headaches & Migraines

At At Ease Physio in South Surrey, we specialize in treating headaches that originate from the neck and musculoskeletal system. Many chronic headaches are cervicogenic - caused by dysfunction in the upper neck joints. Our physiotherapists use manual therapy to restore normal joint mobility, release muscle tension, and address postural factors that contribute to headache frequency and intensity.

What to Expect

Your assessment includes a detailed examination of your neck, posture, and headache patterns to determine the type and source of your headaches. Treatment typically involves manual therapy to the upper cervical spine, soft tissue release for tense muscles, dry needling for trigger points, craniosacral therapy techniques, and postural correction exercises. Many patients notice reduced headache frequency within the first few sessions.

Learn more: Our blog explores how the dural layers affect headaches, polyvagal theory and nervous system regulation, and concussion recovery misconceptions.

Our Treatment Services

Manual Therapy
Skilled hands-on techniques to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing
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Dry Needling
Targeted trigger point therapy to release muscle tension and reduce pain
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Craniosacral Therapy
Gentle therapy targeting the skull, spine, and sacrum for headaches and chronic pain
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Prevention & Self-Care

Prevention Tips
  • Maintain good posture at your desk
  • Take regular breaks from screens (every 30 minutes)
  • Stay well hydrated throughout the day
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques
  • Exercise regularly to reduce tension
  • Ensure adequate quality sleep
  • Set up an ergonomic workstation
  • Stretch neck and shoulders regularly
When to See a Physiotherapist
  • Headaches occurring more than twice per week
  • Headaches not responding to over-the-counter medication
  • Neck pain accompanying headaches
  • Headache pattern has changed recently
  • Headaches affecting work or daily activities
  • Headaches triggered by neck movement

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, physiotherapy can significantly help many migraine sufferers. While migraines have multiple causes, neck dysfunction and muscle tension are common triggers. By addressing cervical spine problems and reducing muscle tension, we can reduce migraine frequency and intensity. Many patients experience fewer and less severe migraines with regular physiotherapy treatment.
Cervicogenic headaches originate from problems in the upper neck (cervical spine). They typically start at the base of the skull and radiate to the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. They're often one-sided and worsen with neck movement or sustained postures. Physiotherapy is highly effective for cervicogenic headaches because we directly treat the source.
Many patients notice reduced headache intensity within the first 2-3 sessions. Significant reduction in headache frequency typically occurs within 4-6 weeks of consistent treatment. Chronic headache sufferers may take 8-12 weeks to see full benefits. The key is addressing the underlying cause, not just treating symptoms.
Absolutely. Forward head posture places significant strain on the neck muscles and joints, which can trigger tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches. For every inch your head sits forward, the effective weight on your neck increases by 10 pounds. Correcting posture is often a crucial part of long-term headache management.
Don't stop prescribed medications without consulting your doctor. However, as physiotherapy reduces your headache frequency and intensity, many patients naturally need less medication. Overuse of pain medications can actually cause 'rebound headaches,' so reducing reliance on medication through physiotherapy often improves overall headache patterns.

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Meet the Practitioners

Our team of experienced physiotherapists and kinesiologists are ready to help you on your path to recovery.

Susannah Reid

Susannah Reid

Clinic Owner & Registered Physiotherapist

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Larissa Vishniakoff

Larissa Vishniakoff

Registered Physiotherapist

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Michaela Toffoli

Michaela Toffoli

Registered Physiotherapist

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Ready to Start Your Recovery?

Book your initial 55-minute assessment with one of our experienced physiotherapists at South Surrey.

Book Appointment Call +1 604 923 8323