Common Headache Symptoms

• Pain at the base of the skull

• Tension across the forehead

• Pain behind the eyes

• Headaches that begin in the neck

• Headaches associated with jaw tension

• Frequent headaches while working at a computer

• Headaches accompanied by neck stiffness

• Stress-related headaches

• Morning headaches

• Headaches associated with teeth grinding

Types of Headaches We Commonly Treat

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are often associated with tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, jaw, and upper back.

These headaches commonly feel like:

• Pressure around the head

• Tightness at the base of the skull

• Aching behind the eyes

• Neck stiffness

Cervicogenic Headaches

These headaches originate from dysfunction in the neck and surrounding structures.

Common symptoms include:

• One-sided headaches

• Pain that starts in the neck

• Reduced neck mobility

• Pain that worsens with certain neck movements

TMJ-Related Headaches

Jaw tension and teeth grinding frequently contribute to headaches.

Many patients are surprised to learn that the muscles used for chewing can refer pain into the temples, forehead, face, and even behind the eyes.

Migraine Support

While migraines are complex and may involve multiple contributing factors, many patients find that reducing muscular tension, improving movement, and addressing triggers can help decrease frequency and severity.

Why Am I Getting Headaches?

Headaches can develop for many reasons, including:

• Neck tension

• Poor posture

• Stress

• Teeth grinding

• TMJ dysfunction

• Muscle trigger points

• Long hours at a computer

• Poor sleep

• Previous injuries

• Repetitive strain

The key is determining which factors are contributing to your symptoms.

Our Approach to Headache Treatment

Dry Needling

Dry needling is one of our most effective treatments for headaches related to muscle tension.

Common treatment areas include:

• Upper trapezius

• Levator scapulae

• Suboccipitals

• Temporalis

• Masseter

• Scalenes

Many patients experience significant relief when these trigger points are addressed.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help manage headaches and migraines.

Treatment may help reduce pain, improve circulation, calm the nervous system, and decrease stress-related tension.

Chiropractic Care

When appropriate, chiropractic treatment may be used to improve movement throughout the neck, upper back, and rib cage.

Many patients are surprised to learn that improving mobility in the upper back often reduces stress on the neck and helps decrease headache frequency.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Muscle tension throughout the neck, shoulders, jaw, and upper back frequently contributes to headaches.

Targeted soft tissue treatment can help relieve these restrictions.

Corrective Exercise and Postural Education

Many headaches are aggravated by prolonged sitting, computer work, and poor posture.

We'll provide simple strategies to help reduce strain and prevent recurrence.

Why Patients Choose OC Well Studio

We don't believe every headache is the same.

Our goal is to understand why you're experiencing headaches and create a treatment plan that addresses the contributing factors rather than simply masking symptoms.

Many patients come to us after trying medications, massage, stretching, or other therapies without lasting relief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dry needling help headaches?

Yes. Dry needling is often highly effective for headaches caused by muscle tension, trigger points, and neck dysfunction.

Can acupuncture help migraines?

Many migraine sufferers report improvements in headache frequency, intensity, and overall quality of life with acupuncture treatment.

Do I need to have my neck adjusted?

No. Many patients achieve excellent results through dry needling, acupuncture, soft tissue treatment, and movement-based care without cervical manipulation.

How many visits will I need?

The answer depends on the type of headache, how long you've been experiencing symptoms, and the contributing factors involved.

Many patients notice improvement within the first few visits.

Related Conditions We Treat

• Neck pain

• TMJ dysfunction

• Teeth grinding

• Stress and anxiety

• Shoulder tension

• Upper back pain

• Postural strain

Schedule Your Consultation

If headaches are affecting your quality of life, we'd love to help.

Whether you're dealing with tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, TMJ-related headaches, or chronic head and neck tension, our team can help identify the source of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.

Serving Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Huntington Beach, and Orange County.