Headaches & migraines # Headaches & Migraines Targeted treatment to identify and address the root cause of your head pain [Call +1 604 923 8323](tel:+16049238323) ## What Is Headache & Migraine Treatment? Headache and migraine treatment is a specialized physiotherapy approach that identifies and addresses the underlying causes of your head pain rather than simply masking symptoms with medication. This treatment recognizes that headaches often originate from: - Musculoskeletal dysfunction - Postural imbalances - Nervous system sensitization We address a wide spectrum of headache types including tension headaches, cervicogenic ([neck-related](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/neck-pain)) headaches, migraines, [TMJ-related headaches](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/tmj-jaw-pain), and post-concussion headaches. Each type requires a unique assessment and treatment strategy. Treatment typically combines [manual therapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/manual-therapy) techniques, postural correction, targeted therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle guidance. By addressing root causes, we aim to provide lasting relief and reduce your reliance on pain medication. At At Ease Physio in [South Surrey](https://ateasephysio.ca/contact), our therapists have advanced training in headache assessment and treatment. We take time to understand your unique headache pattern, identify your triggers, and develop a personalized treatment plan. For deeper insights into headache treatment, explore our articles on [the dural layers of the central nervous system](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/dural-layers-central-nervous-system), [polyvagal theory and manual therapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/polyvagal-theory-manual-therapy), and [vestibular physiotherapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/understanding-vestibular-physiotherapy) for headaches related to balance dysfunction. Best for Tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, migraines, TMJ-related pain Typical course 4-8 sessions Coverage Extended health benefits (physiotherapy) ## Who is this for? - Experience frequent headaches (weekly, several times per week, or daily) - Rely on medication for relief and want an alternative approach - Have neck-related headaches that start at the skull base or worsen with certain positions - Are recovering from a concussion with persistent headaches - Want to understand why your headaches happen and how to prevent them - Have tried other treatments without lasting success ### Conditions and concerns - [Tension headaches — band-like pressure around the head, often related to muscle tension and poor posture](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [Cervicogenic headaches — pain originating from cervical spine dysfunction, typically starting at the skull base](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [Migraines — complex neurological events with throbbing pain, nausea, and light sensitivity](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [TMJ-related headaches — stemming from temporomandibular joint dysfunction, often with jaw pain or clicking](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [Post-concussion headaches — persistent headaches following head injury, may include dizziness and cognitive difficulties](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [Cluster headaches — severe, one-sided headaches occurring in clusters over weeks or months](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) - [Chronic daily headaches — headaches occurring 15+ days per month, requiring comprehensive multi-factor approach](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) ## How it helps - ### Headache Frequency Reduction Targeted interventions decrease how often you experience headaches - ### Pain Intensity Decrease Treatment techniques reduce severity, making headaches more manageable - ### Trigger Identification Systematic assessment pinpoints your specific triggers (postural, dietary, environmental, or stress-related) - ### Postural Correction Addressing forward head posture and alignment issues eliminates a major source of chronic pain - ### Muscle Tension Release Manual therapy relieves tight muscles in neck, shoulders, jaw, and upper back - ### Medication Dependence Reduction Many patients need fewer pain medications as underlying causes are addressed ## What to expect 1. ### Your First Visit Detailed headache history covering location, intensity, duration, frequency, and triggers. Thorough physical examination of neck mobility, posture, muscle tension, and neurological function. You leave understanding why you get headaches and what we can do about it. 2. ### During Treatment Manual therapy techniques including soft tissue release, joint mobilization, and trigger point therapy. Specific exercises for posture and strength, plus recommendations for work setup, sleep position, and daily habits. Additional techniques may include dry needling or craniosacral therapy. 3. ### After Treatment Keep a headache diary to track frequency, intensity, and triggers. Most patients notice improvement within 4-6 sessions. Our goal is to equip you with tools and knowledge to manage headaches independently. ## Meet the Practitioners Our team of experienced physiotherapists and kinesiologists are ready to help you on your path to recovery. ### [Susannah Reid](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid) Clinic Owner & Registered Physiotherapist [View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid) ### [Larissa Vishniakoff](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/larissa-vishniakoff) Registered Physiotherapist [View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/larissa-vishniakoff) ### [Michaela Toffoli](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/michaela-toffoli) Registered Physiotherapist [View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/michaela-toffoli) ## New to physiotherapy? Start with an assessment. You do not need to choose a treatment technique. [First visit & fees](https://ateasephysio.ca/patient-info#pricing) ## Why choose At Ease Physio? - ### Specialized Headache Assessment Our therapists have advanced training in headache evaluation, identifying all contributing factors, not just the obvious ones. - ### Multi-Modal Treatment Approach We draw from manual therapy, exercise, lifestyle modification, and stress management to address your specific needs. - ### Integration with Craniosacral and Vestibular Care Many headache patients benefit from craniosacral therapy or vestibular rehabilitation. We offer these services under one roof. - ### Focus on Lasting Relief We identify and address root causes for lasting improvement, not temporary fixes. ## Frequently asked questions **Can physiotherapy actually help migraines?** Yes, physiotherapy can significantly help many migraine sufferers. While migraines have neurological components, musculoskeletal factors often contribute to frequency and intensity. Research shows manual therapy, particularly targeting the upper cervical spine, can reduce migraine frequency and medication use. **How many sessions until I see improvement?** Most patients notice some improvement within four to six sessions, though this varies based on headache type, duration, and individual factors. Chronic headaches present for years typically require longer treatment. We establish realistic expectations during your initial assessment. **What causes my headaches?** Headaches have many potential causes, and most people have multiple contributing factors: neck joint dysfunction, muscle tension, poor posture, jaw problems, stress, inadequate sleep, dehydration, and certain foods or environmental triggers. Our comprehensive assessment identifies your specific factors. **Should I see a doctor before starting physiotherapy?** A physician referral is not required, but we recommend seeing your doctor if you experience sudden severe headaches, headaches with fever or stiff neck, headaches following head injury, or significant changes in your typical pattern. For typical tension headaches or migraines, you can begin physiotherapy directly. **Does insurance cover headache treatment?** Most extended health insurance plans cover physiotherapy, including treatment for headaches and migraines. Coverage amounts vary by plan. We provide detailed receipts for insurance submission, and direct billing is available for many plans. ## Conditions We Treat [Headaches & Migraines Treatment Physiotherapy treatment for chronic headaches and migraines in South Surrey. Relief from tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and migraine symptoms. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/headaches-migraines) [TMJ & Jaw Pain Treatment Specialized physiotherapy for TMJ disorders and jaw pain in South Surrey. Relief from clicking, locking, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/tmj-jaw-pain) [Neck Pain Treatment Comprehensive physiotherapy treatment for neck pain in South Surrey. Specialized care for cervical pain, stiffness, and headaches. Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/conditions/neck-pain) ## Related Services [Craniosacral Therapy Gentle therapy targeting the skull, spine, and sacrum for headaches and chronic pain Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/craniosacral-therapy) [Vestibular Therapy Evidence-based treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and balance disorders Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/vestibular-therapy) [Manual Therapy Skilled hands-on techniques to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing Learn More](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/manual-therapy) ## Tired of Living With Headaches? There's often more to headaches than meets the eye. Book an assessment to identify your triggers and find lasting relief. [Book an appointment](https://ateasephysio.janeapp.com/) [Contact Us](https://ateasephysio.ca/contact)