As the winter months start to settle in, many of those in the community find themselves battling not only chilly temperatures but also an unwelcome companion — headaches and migraines. The connection between cold weather and debilitating head pain is a common concern, and understanding this link can shed light on effective approaches for relief.
As part of Osteopathy First's Weather & Wellness series, here's an introduction to manual osteopathy and craniosacral therapy during cold weather — plus eight more signs to see an osteopath for help with headaches and migraines.
Cold Weather & Its Connection to Headaches
The shift in temperature experienced in the greater Burlington, Oakville, Milton, Waterdown, and Mississauga areas — plus reduced sunlight and changes in atmospheric pressure — can contribute to the onset of head pain and migraines. Cold air can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain and potentially triggering headaches.
For those already prone to migraines, these weather-related factors can act as potent triggers — intensifying the frequency and severity of their episodes. Osteopathic techniques, such as myofascial release and craniosacral therapy, focus on improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall vascular health. By addressing these factors, osteopathy can help mitigate the vascular component of headaches and migraines.
Not Just Cold Weather — 8 Signs to See an Osteopath for Help with Chronic Headaches & Migraines
It's not just winter that can place head pain front and center, there are lots of other symptoms that can signal a pressing need for gentle but powerful treatment through manual osteopathy and craniosacral therapy. Here are more signs to see an osteopath for headaches and migraines:
Pain relievers aren't helping
Persistent stiffness in the neck
Experiencing visual disturbances
Headaches come with nausea
Increased sensitivity to light and sound
Stress, stress, stress
Emotional upset
Interrupted sleep or difficulty falling asleep
Headaches and migraines are hard enough. Relief shouldn’t be.
An Osteopath's Approach to Headache & Migraine Relief
Osteopathy and craniosacral therapy are renowned for their understanding that the body functions as a unit, and any imbalances or restrictions can impact one's overall health. With over 30+ years of medical experience, Ernest Geid harnesses this nuanced expertise to provide comprehensive and personalized care to each patient to address the individualized root cause of each concern — including head pain.
"It's hard to concentrate on work or enjoy life when your head is pounding with pain," Dr. Geid shares. "Osteopathy can help alleviate that pain quickly and gently while also addressing any structural, emotional, or stress-related elements to make sure they don't often return.
"Managing your chronic headaches and migraines with craniosacral therapy and manual osteopathy can be the key to fewer episodes and faster relief."
When to See an Osteopath for Chronic Headaches & Migraines
From his osteopathy clinic located in Burlington, Ontario, Ernest Geid shares three key times when patients can tap into osteopathy for pain relief.
At First Onset of Symptoms
"As I always say, 'try osteopathy first,'" he explains. "The earlier the intervention, the faster we can help lessen the episode's severity and accelerate relief."
Consistently for Chronic Care
"The ultimate goal is to treat the root cause, so treatments on a bi-weekly or monthly basis can help manage chronic headaches and migraines over time."
Preventative for Trigger Periods
"When we know environmental or emotional triggers can cause a flare-up, such as a drastic change to colder weather, or seasonal stress, appointments done in advance can help prevent or lessen symptoms when the changes arise."
If you are struggling with headaches and migraines, Ernest Geid offers complimentary consultations for his clinic Osteopathy First, located in Halton, Ontario at Appleby Line & Fairview Street. For more information, and to see if osteopathy is the right fit for your head pain, book your consult today.
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