Osteopath for headaches and migraine in Rabat
Not all headaches are the same. Some are linked to neck tension and may respond to a hands-on approach; others, such as migraine, first need a diagnosis and medical follow-up.
Tension-type headache, cervicogenic headache, migraine
Tension-type headache is the most common kind: a pressing or tight feeling on both sides of the head, mild to moderate, often linked to stress, tiredness and sustained postures. Cervicogenic headache starts in the neck: the pain tends to be one-sided and changes with neck movement.
Migraine is different. It is a neurological condition that comes in attacks: often throbbing one-sided pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and noise, sometimes preceded by visual disturbance. Diagnosis and treatment belong to a GP or neurologist. At most, osteopathy can complement that care for associated neck tension.
Common symptoms and situations
An osteopathy session may be considered, after medical advice if needed, when headaches:
- feel like a tight band or helmet around the head
- start in the neck or at the back of the skull
- come on at the end of a day of screen work or after driving
- come with stiffness in the neck, shoulders or jaw
- increase during periods of stress or poor sleep
- occur alongside migraine that has already been diagnosed and is followed by a doctor
What happens during the session
Detailed consultation
Frequency, duration and type of pain, associated symptoms, triggers, medication, and tests or medical opinions already obtained. Keeping a headache diary for a few weeks helps a great deal.
Examination
Mobility of the neck and upper back, tension in the neck, shoulder and jaw muscles, and screening for signs that call for medical advice first.
Gentle techniques
Release of the suboccipital and neck muscles, progressive neck and upper-back mobilisation, and cranial and fascial techniques as tolerated.
Advice
Work posture, breaks, hydration, regular sleep and identifying triggers. For migraine, medical care remains the reference.
What osteopathy can and cannot do
For tension-type and neck-related headaches, manual therapy may reduce how often or how strongly episodes occur in some people, with results that vary between studies.
For migraine, scientific evidence is limited and does not allow osteopathy to be presented as a treatment. It does not replace acute or preventive medication, or a neurologist’s opinion. A new headache, or one that changes in character or gets worse, should always be assessed by a doctor.
When to see a doctor first
Seek emergency medical care, not an osteopath, if a headache:
- comes on suddenly and is very severe, "the worst of your life"
- comes with fever, a stiff neck or vomiting
- comes with weakness, difficulty speaking, visual or balance problems, or confusion
- starts after a blow to the head
- is new after the age of 50, or clearly differs from your usual headaches
- occurs during pregnancy or after giving birth together with visual problems or swelling of the face and hands
In an emergency in Morocco, call the SAMU ambulance service on 141 or Civil Protection on 15, or go to the nearest emergency department.
Frequently asked questions
Can osteopathy cure migraine?
No. Migraine is a neurological condition managed by a doctor. Osteopathy may help ease associated tension, as a complement.
Should I come in during a migraine attack?
No. A migraine attack is managed with your prescribed treatment and rest. Sessions take place between attacks.
How many sessions for tension-type headaches?
A first session shows how you respond. If there is no improvement after two or three sessions, it is best to discuss it again with your doctor.
Not sure whether to book?
Describe your situation on WhatsApp. The practice will tell you whether an osteopathy session is appropriate or whether you should see a doctor first.