Headache

Tension headache and osteopathy

Q: How do I recognise a tension headache?

A tension headache is typically a mild or moderate, pressing or tight pain on both sides of the head. Unlike migraine, it usually does not throb or get worse with ordinary activity, and it does not come with nausea.

Q: Can my neck cause headaches?

Yes. Tension in the muscles of the neck and the base of the skull and problems in the neck joints can cause or worsen headaches. That is why the neck is always examined when treating headaches.

Q: Does osteopathy help with tension headaches?

Many people get relief when tension in the neck, shoulders and jaw muscles is treated and everyday strain is addressed. The best results come when treatment is combined with exercises and regular physical activity.

Q: What can I do myself?

Take breaks from screen work, change position and move your neck and shoulders. Regular exercise, enough sleep and calm diaphragmatic breathing reduce tension. If you need painkillers for headaches on more than ten days a month, talk to a doctor.

Q: Can jaw muscle tension cause headaches?

Yes. Clenching and grinding your teeth strain the jaw muscles, and the pain can be felt in the temples and face. Read more about TMJ and jaw problems.

Tension headache is the most common type of headache. It typically feels like a pressing or tight pain on both sides of the head – on the forehead, temples or back of the head – and often comes with stiffness in the neck and shoulders.

It is often linked to long hours of screen work, stress, poor sleep or tension in the jaw muscles. Osteopathic treatment eases tension in the neck, shoulders and jaw muscles, and exercises help to prevent the symptoms from returning.

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Osteopath Jerry Ketola placing his hand on a client's shoulder during treatment

Help for headaches from osteopathy

Treatment releases tension in the neck, shoulders, the base of the skull and, when needed, the jaw muscles with gentle techniques, and improves the mobility of the neck and upper back.

Many people find that their headaches ease when the neck and shoulders relax. We also go through everyday factors such as working posture, breaks, sleep and breathing, which affect how tension builds up.

You leave with a few easy exercises that you can do during the working day.

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Treatment

How treatment works

First we look at the nature of your headache: where and when you feel it, how long it lasts and what triggers it. A headache diary helps to identify the triggers.

I examine how your neck, upper back, shoulders and jaw joint work. Besides treatment and exercises, it pays to look after regular exercise and enough sleep.

Also tell me if you take painkillers often. Taking painkillers too often can itself keep headaches going.

Safety

When to see a doctor

Call 112 or go to the emergency department straight away if a headache starts suddenly and is exceptionally severe, or if it comes with fever and a stiff neck, confusion, problems with speech or vision, or weakness in your arms or legs. You should also see a doctor if:

the headache started after a head injury
the headache is new and starts after the age of 50
the headache changes in character or gets worse over weeks
the headache wakes you at night or comes with vomiting

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about tension headache

Answers to the most common questions about tension headaches.

How do I recognise a tension headache?

Can my neck cause headaches?

Does osteopathy help with tension headaches?

What can I do myself?

Can jaw muscle tension cause headaches?

Osteopathy in Helsinki – services and prices

Osteopathy

60 min

€94 / hour

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Personal trainer

PT / programming

€99 / hour

You can also pay with ePassi and Edenred sports benefits.

Booking

Book an appointment online

Choose a suitable time from the calendar. If you can’t find a time that suits you, you can ask about other available times, for example evening appointments, by calling or texting +358 40 557 3874.

You can also pay with ePassi and Edenred sports benefits.

You’re warmly welcome to my clinic at Läkkisepäntie 11 A in Metsälä, Helsinki!

Clinic

How to find us

Osteopath Jerry Ketola
Läkkisepäntie 11 A
00620 Helsinki

The clinic is conveniently located near major junctions in Metsälä, alongside Tuusulantie and close to Käpylä station. It’s about a 15–20 minute drive from both Tikkurila and Leppävaara. My osteopathy practice is situated inside the R5 Athletics & Health gym and wellness facilities. Follow the R5 signs to find the entrance and head to the second floor.

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