Headaches & Migraines Osteopath

Headache & Migraine Osteopathy Clinic covering Croydon & the Surrounding areas

From supporting mothers and babies; keeping the elderly active and mobile; aiding recovery from muscle and joint injuries, or contributing to the management of chronic long-term conditions, an osteopath will take the time to help you keep healthy and mobile, using expert hands-on treatment, exercise, and health advice.

Which Types of Headaches Can Osteopathy Treat?

Around 95% of the general population have experienced headaches at some stage in their life, with nearly one-in-two suffering a significant headache at least once a year. Whilst most can be treated with simple steps such as rest, hydration, and medication, some require further interventions. One effective treatment for many types of headaches is osteopathy. 

Different Types of Headaches You May Suffer From

There are over 200 different types of headaches, however there are three that are overwhelmingly the most common, accounting for over 90% of all incidents.

Tension-type headache (TTH)

This is by far the most common and affects 60–80% of the population. These headaches are associated with stress and / or postural tension. They are felt as tightening or pressure on both sides of your head.

Migraines

Migraines are the next most common headache, with an overall prevalence of 15%, although this is skewed with females being more than twice as likely as men to suffer. Whilst there are many causes of a migraine, they can be triggered from issues in the upper neck. Often, they affect one side of your head and can cause issues with sight or sound sensitivity. In extreme cases they may cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Cervicogenic Headaches (CGH)

Finally Cervicogenic headaches occur when pain is referred from a specific source in the neck, up into the head. CGH symptoms often occur on one side of the neck or head, sometimes causing pain around the eyes. A CGH is a secondary headache, caused by a pre-existing physical or neurologic condition.

How Can Osteopathy Help With Headaches?

There is a common thread to many headaches. Whilst the pain is experienced in the sufferer’s head, the cause is often a biomechanical issue somewhere else in the body. The underlying issue may be the result of sudden trauma, or caused by a build up of poor posture, which may itself be caused by a variety of prior factors.

Osteopathy uses palpation, manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, and help relieve muscle tension. This enhances blood and nerve supply to tissues, helping your body’s own healing mechanisms. It is no surprise then that research has found that osteopathy is effective in treating many types of headaches, especially those that have a biomechanical cause or trigger. Whilst paracetamol or ibuprofen may partially relieve the symptoms, osteopathy looks to address the cause of the headache, and correct the underlying issue.

  • Iv used David for 12 years now. Always reliable and available when needed for emergency appointments. I am now taking my children here when needed.

    George Laura Avatar George
    August 28, 2023

    I’ve visited Tom at Sanderstead Osteopaths since March for postnatal neck and back issues and then subsequent issues with my neck from looking after a baby (and now toddler) and he’s absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend him!

    Louise May Avatar Louise
    August 28, 2021

    I took my newborn daughter to David due to her being very gassy and unsettled. Within the first week of David seeing her she was a lot more settled and was sleeping for a lot longer at night. I would highly recommend the treatment here with David for anyone with newborns with similar issues.

    Elisabeth Cachia Avatar Elisabeth
    August 28, 2023
  • I’ve been seeing David for 10+ years now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I’ve recently taken my 15year old son to David as he has had some health issues effecting his muscles and joints, he has experienced immediate improvements. I also recommended my mum who sees another member of the team and again, is really pleased with the treatment and outcome 5⭐️

    Andrew Webb Avatar Andrew
    August 28, 2023

    An excellent practice, with excellent therapists. I originally saw David with a bad lower back and got amazing results. Would recommend!

    P H Avatar P
    August 28, 2023

    Sanderstead Osteopath provide quality treatment & professional service, I've been using David Ayers Osteopath services for over a decade with no complaints.

    Mike McFarlane Avatar Mike
    August 28, 2023
  • Very knowledgeable, nice people

    Bernt Hellman Avatar Bernt
    January 28, 2024

    Always really happy with the knowledge and professionalism I receive.

    Daniel Djadali Avatar Daniel
    August 28, 2023

    I’ve been attending Sanderstead Osteopaths to see David for a few years. The treatment is effective and the service professional.

    Stuart kennedy Avatar Stuart
    August 28, 2023
  • Have used this osteopath for years and always had great service

    Bill Burton Avatar Bill
    August 28, 2023

    Great experience with Sanderstead Osteopaths. I began treatment due to a sports injury in my leg which greatly reduced my mobility. In all honesty, I just looked up osteopaths near me and these lads came up. Couldn’t be more happy with their work. My progress to recovery has taken time and obviously money to get to where I am now (back to 95%) but I couldn’t be more pleased. All of my treatment was by Paul Harmes. If you need something to be looked at, consider these guys. C

    Charles Thakker Avatar Charles
    December 28, 2023

    Very professional and friendly service from Paul.

    Julia Callan Avatar Julia
    October 28, 2023
  • Absolutely brilliant. Lexi is a miracle worker, i always come away feeling back on track and realigned. I honestly dont know what i would do without her regular resets! She is lovely and the practice is always, welcoming, warm and quiet.

    Vicky Avatar Vicky
    February 28, 2024

    I have been using Sanderstead Osteopaths for many years David has been treating my ongoing back and neck issues and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I would highly recommend.

    Allison Stagg Avatar Allison
    August 28, 2023

    I have suffered with various back problems, especially lower back and shoulder tension. David has helped with my symptoms quickly and effectively. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I can highly recommend this practice and I will continue to use them in the future.

    Kim Fyfe Avatar Kim
    August 28, 2023
  • Been seeing Paul for a couple of months now for my neck pain, had been using another fairly local osteopaths before and didn’t really seem to be making any progress, but since finding here it’s been much better. I suffer really badly with tension in my neck which leads to real bad headaches, and can highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers the same issue as Paul has helped me massively.

    Dan Avatar Dan
    November 28, 2023

    David Ayres was brilliant with my back issues, as were his 2 colleagues I saw when he wasn't available. Professional and knowledgeable, would recommend 👌

    Jane welch Avatar Jane
    August 28, 2023

    Have seen both David and Clare on and off over the last 4 years with lower back pain/stiffness. They really know their stuff and have always provided me with solutions to my lower back. My job is quite demanding and doesn't help the pain (lots of driving and lifting) but knowing David and Clare will always be there to help at Sanderstead Osteopaths it puts my mind at rest. I started going weekly and with the regular treatments it's eased the pain so now I am going every 2-4 weeks. I would highly recommend either of these guys!

    James McClelland Avatar James
    August 28, 2023
  • Thanks to Tom for treating me before and after my Marathon last year – I literally would not have been able to do it without him. He also treated me for a pulled shoulder and neck pain. I'll definitely use Sanderstead Osteopaths again – highly recommend! 👍

    Richard Belton Avatar Richard
    August 28, 2023

    I had treatments for backache and neck pain with both Tom and David, during pregnancy and after birth. I found the sessions really beneficial, they were gentle but straight to the point causing the pain. My mother sorted her backache in 4 treatments too. And I also got my newborn treated which helped her as she is much more relaxed now. I definitely recommend this clinic, osteopathy is good at any stage of life.

    Laura Vettore Avatar Laura
    August 28, 2023

    David has been treating my lower back pain. He provides a very professional service, and has a wealth of knowledge. Sanderstead Osteopath is a welcoming, cosy and clean clinic. On bad days when I have hardly been able to walk due to the pain, after David's treatment I feel I can do star jumps! The instant relief is noticeable. Parking is nearby which is very convenient. I highly recommend anyone to come here, you won't be disappointed.

    Tania Sang Avatar Tania
    August 28, 2023
  • Lexi has been very helpful with pain in my back and the treatments have been very affective and she gives out great follow up exercises

    Max Bullock Avatar Max
    February 28, 2024

What Will an Osteopath Do to Relieve Your Headache?

If you have not had osteopathy before, it might seem a little daunting. A session with one of our qualified osteopaths will include questions to understand more about you, your body, and the headaches you are suffering. Depending on what is discovered, soft tissue massage will help to relieve a build up of muscular tension. Osteopathic joint articulation may be used, encouraging joint release and movement, helping to relieve the referred headache pain. If you are suffering from cervicogenic headaches, the focus areas are likely to be mid-spine and neck. Our osteopaths will also give you some help and advice about how you can minimise the recurrence of the headache. This may include gentle exercises, advice on posture or similar.

Hopefully, as reflected in the research into osteopathy as an effective treatment, you should experience both a reduction in the number, and the severity, of the headaches you are experiencing. A follow up session may be required, but it is by no means always necessary.

If you would like to know more about how we can help you please feel free to call us. We will be more than happy to have a chat with you and see if we can help. 

What do I do now?

Simply send us an email to hello@sanderstead-osteopaths.co.uk or give us a call on 0208 776 0964 to have a chat about how we could help you get relief from headaches and migraines.

How Much Does Osteopathy Treatment Cost?

New Patients

£80
1 Hour Treatment

Returning Patients

£55
30 Minute Treatment

Other Osteopathic Services We Offer:

Baby Cranial Osteopathy Treatments

Baby Cranial Osteopathy Treatments

Cranial Osteopathy is a subtle form of osteopathic treatment. It's usually used to treat babies and children and involves a gentle manipulation of their head and spine to increase comfort.
General Osteopathy

General Osteopathy

Described as general osteopathic treatment (GOT) that consists of using several types of body segment mobilizations for assessing the occurrence of musculoskeletal dysfunctions
Neck, Shoulder & Upper Back Pain Osteopathy

Neck, Shoulder & Upper Back Pain Treatments

Our osteopathic treatments will reduce your neck, back & shoulder pain. Treatments may include soft tissue massage, mobilisation and strengthening work to the shoulder, neck and back.
Headaches & Migraines Osteopathy

Headaches & Migraines Treatments

Migraines & headaches are often triggered or worsened by stress, muscle tension, injuries, sinus pressure and incorrect posture. Our fully trained osteopaths can assist and help remedy any pain and discomfort you may be experiencing.
Pregnancy & Post Natal Osteopathic Treatment

Pregnancy & Post Natal Treatments

Pregnancy and postnatal osteopathy can help to address a wide range of symptoms that include back pain, rib strain, wrist issues and pelvic pain. Our osteopathic treatments can also be of benefit to those suffering with symptoms such as constipation, tiredness or emotional imbalance.
Teenager & Young Adult Osteopathy Treatments

Children & Teenager Treatments

Our paediatric osteopaths are highly experienced at identifying unresolved tension within teenagers & young adults. They apply modern scientific techniques of developmental anatomy & physiology through the use of therapeutic touch.
Chronic Pain Osteopathy Clinic

Chronic Pain Treatment

Osteopathic manipulative treatment is used to alleviate somatic dysfunction by applying manually guided forces to improve physiologic function and support homeostasis.
Sports Injury Osteopath

Sports Injury Treatments

Our highly qualified osteopaths help to restore structural balance, ease of movement and joint mobility. Osteopathy encourages your joints range of motion, which in turn reduces pain and stiffness within the muscles and joints increasing blood flow to the affected areas.

Areas our Osteopathy Treatment Covers

  • Been seeing Paul for a couple of months now for my neck pain, had been using another fairly local osteopaths before and didn’t really seem to be making any progress, but since finding here it’s been much better. I suffer really badly with tension in my neck which leads to real bad headaches, and can highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers the same issue as Paul has helped me massively.

    Dan Avatar Dan
    November 28, 2023

    An excellent practice, with excellent therapists. I originally saw David with a bad lower back and got amazing results. Would recommend!

    P H Avatar P
    August 28, 2023

    Very professional and friendly service from Paul.

    Julia Callan Avatar Julia
    October 28, 2023
  • I took my newborn daughter to David due to her being very gassy and unsettled. Within the first week of David seeing her she was a lot more settled and was sleeping for a lot longer at night. I would highly recommend the treatment here with David for anyone with newborns with similar issues.

    Elisabeth Cachia Avatar Elisabeth
    August 28, 2023

    Always really happy with the knowledge and professionalism I receive.

    Daniel Djadali Avatar Daniel
    August 28, 2023

    Absolutely brilliant. Lexi is a miracle worker, i always come away feeling back on track and realigned. I honestly dont know what i would do without her regular resets! She is lovely and the practice is always, welcoming, warm and quiet.

    Vicky Avatar Vicky
    February 28, 2024
  • Great experience with Sanderstead Osteopaths. I began treatment due to a sports injury in my leg which greatly reduced my mobility. In all honesty, I just looked up osteopaths near me and these lads came up. Couldn’t be more happy with their work. My progress to recovery has taken time and obviously money to get to where I am now (back to 95%) but I couldn’t be more pleased. All of my treatment was by Paul Harmes. If you need something to be looked at, consider these guys. C

    Charles Thakker Avatar Charles
    December 28, 2023

    Thanks to Tom for treating me before and after my Marathon last year – I literally would not have been able to do it without him. He also treated me for a pulled shoulder and neck pain. I'll definitely use Sanderstead Osteopaths again – highly recommend! 👍

    Richard Belton Avatar Richard
    August 28, 2023

    David Ayres was brilliant with my back issues, as were his 2 colleagues I saw when he wasn't available. Professional and knowledgeable, would recommend 👌

    Jane welch Avatar Jane
    August 28, 2023
  • David has been treating my lower back pain. He provides a very professional service, and has a wealth of knowledge. Sanderstead Osteopath is a welcoming, cosy and clean clinic. On bad days when I have hardly been able to walk due to the pain, after David's treatment I feel I can do star jumps! The instant relief is noticeable. Parking is nearby which is very convenient. I highly recommend anyone to come here, you won't be disappointed.

    Tania Sang Avatar Tania
    August 28, 2023

    Lexi has been very helpful with pain in my back and the treatments have been very affective and she gives out great follow up exercises

    Max Bullock Avatar Max
    February 28, 2024

    I’ve been seeing David for 10+ years now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I’ve recently taken my 15year old son to David as he has had some health issues effecting his muscles and joints, he has experienced immediate improvements. I also recommended my mum who sees another member of the team and again, is really pleased with the treatment and outcome 5⭐️

    Andrew Webb Avatar Andrew
    August 28, 2023
  • Very knowledgeable, nice people

    Bernt Hellman Avatar Bernt
    January 28, 2024

    I’ve been attending Sanderstead Osteopaths to see David for a few years. The treatment is effective and the service professional.

    Stuart kennedy Avatar Stuart
    August 28, 2023

    I had treatments for backache and neck pain with both Tom and David, during pregnancy and after birth. I found the sessions really beneficial, they were gentle but straight to the point causing the pain. My mother sorted her backache in 4 treatments too. And I also got my newborn treated which helped her as she is much more relaxed now. I definitely recommend this clinic, osteopathy is good at any stage of life.

    Laura Vettore Avatar Laura
    August 28, 2023
  • Have used this osteopath for years and always had great service

    Bill Burton Avatar Bill
    August 28, 2023

    I have suffered with various back problems, especially lower back and shoulder tension. David has helped with my symptoms quickly and effectively. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I can highly recommend this practice and I will continue to use them in the future.

    Kim Fyfe Avatar Kim
    August 28, 2023

    I have been using Sanderstead Osteopaths for many years David has been treating my ongoing back and neck issues and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I would highly recommend.

    Allison Stagg Avatar Allison
    August 28, 2023
  • Iv used David for 12 years now. Always reliable and available when needed for emergency appointments. I am now taking my children here when needed.

    George Laura Avatar George
    August 28, 2023

    I’ve visited Tom at Sanderstead Osteopaths since March for postnatal neck and back issues and then subsequent issues with my neck from looking after a baby (and now toddler) and he’s absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend him!

    Louise May Avatar Louise
    August 28, 2021

    Sanderstead Osteopath provide quality treatment & professional service, I've been using David Ayers Osteopath services for over a decade with no complaints.

    Mike McFarlane Avatar Mike
    August 28, 2023
  • Have seen both David and Clare on and off over the last 4 years with lower back pain/stiffness. They really know their stuff and have always provided me with solutions to my lower back. My job is quite demanding and doesn't help the pain (lots of driving and lifting) but knowing David and Clare will always be there to help at Sanderstead Osteopaths it puts my mind at rest. I started going weekly and with the regular treatments it's eased the pain so now I am going every 2-4 weeks. I would highly recommend either of these guys!

    James McClelland Avatar James
    August 28, 2023
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