Did you know that Bowen Therapy can treat Headaches?
I know I post a lot about stress, but did you know that stress is one of the leading causes of regular headaches and that Bowen Therapy is an amazing modality that will decrease your stress. It can take the body out of fight/flight and activate your parasympathetic nervous system (the relaxation response). What better way to relax, than a Bowen Therapy session?
It is commonly stated that the majority of individuals will suffer from a headache at least once in their lifetime. While medication can quickly alleviate the pain for many, for some it is a recurring problem. In such cases, it begs the question of whether relying on medication as a long-term solution is the best option.
Based on information from the Better Health Channel, headaches are a prevalent issue, with approximately 15% of Australians relying on pain-relieving medication for headaches at any given time. This amounts to a significant amount of medication being consumed.
Not all headaches are the same, they have difference causes, which will be assessed by your Bowen Therapist, they also require different treatments for effectiveness. There are several Headaches that can be treated effectively by Bowen Therapy, resulting in less down time and medication, which can only be a good thing right?
Listed here are some of the more common headaches that are treated by Bowen Therapy.
Tension Headache, Migraine Headache, TMJ (Jaw) Headache and Sinus Headache.
Tension headache –
The most prevalent type of headache is the tension headache, which is typically caused by muscle tension and stress. These headaches are characterized by a constant, dull pressure around the head, as well as at the back of the head and neck, and the temples. It is estimated that two out of three individuals will experience a tension headache at some point in their lives.
Tension headaches are frequently triggered by physical or emotional stress. Physical stress can arise from poor posture, muscle tension, and misalignment of the spine and neck. Emotional stress can activate the body's fight or flight response, which also leads to muscle contraction in the neck. Bright and noisy work environments, as well as smoking and coffee consumption, can also contribute to tension headaches.
Migraine Headache –
Were you aware that migraines affect three times as many women as men? The causes of migraines remain unclear, and there are currently no known cures, making prevention a challenging task. Migraines are often triggered by various factors such as the menstrual cycle, diet, specific foods, sleep patterns, physiochemical imbalances, or emotional and stress-related factors. While some individuals may experience migraines more frequently than others, many are aware of their triggers and try to avoid them.
Although medication can provide relief, some people also take preventative measures. However, there are numerous non-pharmaceutical and holistic treatments available for migraines, including acupuncture, meditation/relaxation techniques, herbal or homeopathic remedies, and Bowen Therapy.
Bowen moves can help reduce the amount and severity of migraines by influencing the deep fascia layers. Working around the coccyx (tailbone) is commonly used to support migraines, especially those with a hormonal link.
TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Headache –
This is a type of headache that can indicate the onset of a migraine or tension headache. It is characterized by pain on one side of the face and tenderness in the jaw joint. The pain may worsen during yawning, chewing, or even talking in extreme cases. Additionally, there may be a clicking or popping sound when opening and closing the mouth, accompanied by stiffness and a feeling of being stuck. These TMJ headaches can be severe and have been known to trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.
To alleviate these types of headaches, it is essential to address jaw issues and realign the jaw. This can be achieved through regular dental treatments or gentle approaches such as Bowen Therapy.
Sinus Headache –
There is a deep and constant pain in your forehead and cheeks, you head feels like it wants to explode every time you move and when you put you head down it can feel worse. Watery and itchy eyes and a swollen and tender face, you may also present with a fever (from the infection in your sinuses). Your sinuses feel blocked and it feels as if there is a build up of mucus.
Sinuses can become inflamed and often infected, this can cause pain and often fever. It is stated that true sinus headaches are not that common, and that most people actually have a tension headache or migraine, however those that suffer congested sinuses often present with this type of headache.
While antibiotics are often needed to treat the infection, Bowen Therapy can also help sinuses. Specific moves for the upper respiratory system and sinuses help ease congestion, allowing the sinuses to begin to clear – often very quickly.
If you suffer headaches frequently and would like to look at a holistic way of treating them, reach out for a chat.
Leanne
Meet Leanne Jones
Hello!
I am a Perth hills girl. I love the outdoors, nature and camping. My passion is learning ways to assist the body, mind and spirit to heal. I assist you on your journey to true health and healing and support you to overcome your challenges, to look outside the box and to find your inner doctor.
Enjoy the benefits of Bowen at my tranquil home clinic in Lesmurdie, Perth Hills.
Talk soon,
Leanne Jones