Headache Treatment in Saanichton & Saanich, BC

Types of Headaches We Treat

Getting the right diagnosis matters because different headache types have different drivers — and different treatments. Here's how we approach the most common presentations we see in Saanichton:

Tension-Type Headaches

The most common headache type. Characterized by a band-like tightness across the forehead and temples, often with bilateral occipital (base of skull) pressure. The primary driver is sustained muscle tension in the suboccipital muscles, upper trapezius, and cervical paraspinals — typically from prolonged screen posture, stress, or poor sleep position. Chiropractic adjustments to the upper cervical spine combined with soft tissue release resolve most tension headaches quickly, and address the recurrence pattern when combined with postural correction.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches originate in the cervical spine and refer pain up into the head — usually one-sided, starting at the base of the skull and radiating toward the eye or forehead. They're caused by joint dysfunction (most commonly C1-C2-C3), and are frequently triggered by neck movement or sustained position. Many patients have seen multiple practitioners for 'migraines' that were actually cervicogenic in origin. Chiropractic assessment and specific upper cervical adjustments are highly effective for this headache type.

Migraines — Cervical Contribution

Chiropractic doesn't treat all migraines — but a significant subset of migraine patients have a strong cervical trigger component. If your migraines are consistently preceded by neck tightness or stiffness, if they're worsened by certain head positions, or if they began after a neck injury, cervical care may substantially reduce frequency and severity. We work alongside your GP or neurologist for complex migraine cases, and refer for medication management when appropriate. Massage therapy targeting the suboccipital region and upper trapezius can also reduce migraine frequency in cervically triggered cases.

Post-Concussion Headaches

Persistent headaches after a concussion are common and can have both neurological and cervical components. The neck is often injured in the same mechanism that causes the concussion (falls, sports impacts, MVAs) and the cervical component is sometimes overlooked in concussion management. Our team can assess for cervical contribution to post-concussion symptoms and provide manual therapy where appropriate, working within return-to-activity protocols.