Headaches & Migraine

Osteopathy

Headaches are a common and often frustrating condition that can affect concentration, energy, and overall quality of life. They may come on occasionally or be more persistent, sometimes becoming part of a recurring pattern.

At Sophie Hannan Osteopathy, I focus on understanding what may be contributing to your headaches - not just where the pain is felt, but why it may be occurring - so we can support longer-term relief.

What causes headaches?

Headaches can have a range of contributing factors, often involving a combination of physical, environmental, and lifestyle influences.

Common contributors include:

For many people, headaches are not caused by a single issue, but reflect how the body is responding to ongoing strain or sensitivity.

Common types of headaches

I commonly see people experiencing:

  • Tension-type headaches

  • Cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck)

  • Migraine (with or without aura)

  • Headaches related to jaw tension or TMJ dysfunction

  • Headaches associated with stress or fatigue

Headache diagnoses and presentations

Some people come in with a formal diagnosis, while others are simply experiencing recurring or persistent symptoms.

I may work with people who have been diagnosed with:

A diagnosis can be useful, but it’s only one part of the picture. I focus on how your headaches present for you, what may be contributing to them, and what may help reduce their frequency or intensity.

How can osteopathy help with headaches?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach, often looking at how the neck, jaw, and upper back may be contributing to headache patterns.

In treatment, I may use:

  • Hands-on techniques to reduce muscle tension

  • Gentle joint mobilisation of the neck and upper back

  • Soft tissue work around the jaw and surrounding areas

  • Guidance around posture and daily habits

  • Strategies to support nervous system regulation

  • Advice on movement, recovery, and load management

The aim is to reduce tension, improve movement, and support your body in becoming less sensitive to triggers over time.

What to expect from treatment

In your initial consultation, I’ll take a detailed history to understand your headache pattern - including frequency, triggers, and how it affects your day-to-day life.

I’ll also assess how your neck, jaw, and overall movement may be contributing.

Treatment is tailored to you and may evolve over time depending on how your symptoms respond.

When should you see an osteopath for headaches?

You might consider booking an appointment if:

  • You experience recurring headaches

  • Headaches are becoming more frequent or intense

  • Pain is affecting your work, sleep, or concentration

  • You notice associated neck or jaw tension

  • You’re looking for a more holistic approach to managing symptoms

A more personalised approach to headaches

Headaches are often influenced by a combination of physical tension, lifestyle factors, and how the nervous system is responding to stress.

I take the time to understand your individual pattern - so treatment can be tailored not just to relieve symptoms, but to support longer-term change.

Book an appointment

If you're experiencing headaches or migraines and are looking for an osteopath in Leichhardt, Sydney’s Inner West, you're welcome to book an appointment or get in touch to see whether osteopathy is the right fit for you.