Tension headaches, neck-related headaches and a clicking, aching jaw
Headaches and jaw pain
Help for headaches that come from the neck and shoulders, tension headaches, and jaw pain and clicking (temporomandibular problems), with treatment to the neck, jaw and upper back and advice on clenching, posture and sleep.
Many headaches start in the neck and shoulders, and many jaw problems start with clenching and posture. Those respond well to osteopathy. Some headaches are a sign of something else entirely, so we always screen first.
We ask in detail about your headaches: where, when, how often, what they feel like, what sets them off and what helps. We examine the neck, upper back, shoulders and jaw, and check the nerves. Cervicogenic headaches, from the neck, and tension-type headaches often respond to treatment of the neck and upper back and to changes in posture and work habits. Jaw pain and clicking often respond to gentle treatment of the jaw muscles and joints, alongside advice on clenching, chewing and sleep; we work with dentists where a splint might help.
Migraine and cluster headaches are not something we treat directly, though some people with migraine find neck treatment reduces the number of attacks. A sudden, severe headache, a headache with a stiff neck, fever or rash, or with weakness, confusion or changes in vision or speech needs 999, not an osteopath. The where it hurts page lists the signs.
What it includes
- A detailed headache history
- Screening for warning signs first
- Neck, upper back and jaw treatment
- Advice on clenching and posture
- Working with your dentist on splints
- A diary to track what helps
What it costs
£58 for the first appointment, then £48. We screen every headache first. The first visit page has every fee and explains cancelling, insurance and what to wear.
Questions about headaches and jaw
Can you treat migraine?
Not directly. If your migraines come with neck tension, treating the neck may help some people. Your GP is the right first stop for migraine.
My jaw clicks but does not hurt. Should I come?
A painless click is very common and usually nothing to worry about. Come if it hurts, locks, or is getting worse.
Book an appointment, or ask first.
The first appointment is an hour and £58: questions and examination before any treatment, an honest view of whether osteopathy is the right thing, and a plan in plain words. Book a slot from the diary or ring the clinic.