Understanding Headaches and Migraines

Headaches and migraines are common but complex conditions that can significantly affect concentration, energy, mood, and quality of life. While some headaches are short-lived and situational, others are recurrent or persistent and may involve the neck, nervous system, muscles, joints, and blood vessels. Migraines, in particular, are a neurological condition that often involves heightened sensitivity within the nervous system and can present with symptoms well beyond head pain alone.

At ONE80 Health, we approach headaches and migraines by identifying contributing factors rather than focusing solely on symptom suppression. Our goal is to understand why symptoms are occurring and to support long-term improvement through targeted care, education, and appropriate progression.

Common Causes and Triggers

Headaches and migraines rarely have a single cause. Common contributors include:

  • Neck and upper back joint dysfunction

  • Muscle tension and myofascial restriction (especially in the neck, shoulders, and jaw)

  • Postural strain (desk work, prolonged screen time, poor ergonomics)

  • Nervous system sensitization or stress overload

  • Sleep disruption and fatigue

  • Jaw clenching or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement

  • Previous head or neck injuries (including concussions or whiplash)

  • Hormonal, hydration, or dietary triggers (more common in migraines)

Identifying patterns and triggers is a key part of effective management.

Typical Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the type and driver of the headache, but may include:

  • Dull, tight, or pressure-like head pain

  • Pain originating from the neck or base of the skull

  • One-sided or pulsating head pain

  • Sensitivity to light, sound, or movement

  • Neck stiffness or reduced range of motion

  • Jaw tension or facial pain

  • Nausea or visual disturbances (more common with migraines)

  • Symptoms that worsen with stress, posture, or fatigue

Assessment, Management, and When to Seek Care

Assessment at ONE80 Health begins with a detailed history and physical examination to understand symptom patterns, triggers, and contributing mechanical or neurological factors. This includes evaluating cervical spine and upper back mobility, muscle tone and fascial restriction, posture and movement patterns, jaw and TMJ involvement, nervous system sensitivity, and lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, and workload.

Care is individualized and may evolve over time. Management focuses on reducing contributing stressors, improving joint and tissue function, supporting nervous system regulation, and guiding patients toward strategies that help reduce symptom frequency and recurrence.

While occasional headaches may resolve with rest, hydration, or reduced strain, professional evaluation is recommended if headaches or migraines occur frequently, worsen over time, interfere with daily activities, follow a concussion or neck injury, involve neck or jaw pain, include neurological symptoms such as visual changes or dizziness, or fail to respond to usual self-care strategies. Early assessment often leads to more effective management and fewer chronic patterns.

Treatments at ONE80 Health That May Help

Care plans are tailored based on findings, but treatments commonly used for headaches and migraines include:

Book an Initial Appointment