Migraine vs Headache: When to See a Chiropractor
Nearly everyone experiences a headache at some point, but the severity and nature of these pains vary greatly. While some are just an infrequent, mild ache, others are recurring, severe and disrupt daily functions like work and sleep. Effective symptom management requires knowing the distinction between a common headache and a migraine, as well as recognising when professional treatment could be beneficial.
If you’re dealing with frequent or persistent head pain, identifying the type, triggers and treatment options can help you decide whether a chiropractor or headache clinic in Brisbane may be appropriate.
What distinguishes a migraine from a headache?
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, headaches and migraines are distinct conditions with different causes and symptom patterns. Common headaches, including tension-type and cervicogenic headaches, are often linked to physical and postural factors such as muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and jaw, poor posture, prolonged screen use, stress, fatigue, dehydration and eye strain. Pain is usually mild to moderate and commonly described as a tight band around the head or pressure at the temples or base of the skull.
Migraines, on the other hand, are a neurological condition and typically present with more intense and complex symptoms. These may include moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating pain, sensitivity to light, sound or smells, nausea, vomiting and visual disturbances such as aura. Migraines often last for hours or even days, worsen with movement and usually require a broader and more comprehensive management approach than common headache patterns.
Common triggers for headaches and migraines
Triggers vary from person to person, but many overlap between headaches and migraines.
Frequent triggers include:
Emotional stress or anxiety
Poor sleep or disrupted routines
Prolonged poor posture
Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
Hormonal changes
Dehydration or skipped meals
Neck and upper spine tension
An essential step in lessening how often and how severe symptoms are is to identify triggers and consistent patterns.
When headaches become a recurring problem
While occasional headaches are common, head pain that is recurring or worsening should not be ignored, particularly if it begins to impact your quality of life.
Signs you may benefit from professional assessment include:
Headaches occurring several times a week
Pain linked to neck stiffness or shoulder tension
Headaches triggered by posture or prolonged sitting
Pain that doesn’t fully respond to medication
Headaches accompanied by jaw, neck or upper back discomfort
These patterns often suggest a musculoskeletal component contributing to the pain.
How chiropractic adjustments can help with headaches
A migraine chiropractor in North Brisbane (like us!) may focus on:
By reducing physical stress on the nervous system and surrounding structures, chiropractic care may help decrease the frequency or intensity of tension-related headaches for some individuals.
See also: TMJ Specialist Brisbane
The role of a headache clinic and multi-disciplinary care
Persistent or complex head pain often benefits from a multidisciplinary approach, as symptoms can have overlapping neurological, musculoskeletal and lifestyle contributors. A headache clinic typically brings together different healthcare professionals such as chiropractors, GPs, physiotherapists, dentists and neurologists, allowing for comprehensive assessment, accurate diagnosis and coordinated care based on individual needs.
This type of collaborative model supports appropriate medical management, targeted musculoskeletal treatment, rehabilitation, jaw or dental assessment and stress and lifestyle support where needed. Chiropractic care can be integrated into this broader treatment pathway, particularly when neck dysfunction, posture or upper spine mechanics are contributing factors in the headache pattern.
When to see a chiropractor in Brisbane
You may consider seeing a chiropractor if:
Your headaches are linked to neck pain or stiffness
Symptoms worsen after desk work or physical strain
You notice jaw tension, clenching or grinding
Head pain improves with movement or posture changes
You want non-invasive, drug-free support alongside other care
If you experience sudden, severe headaches, neurological symptoms or changes in vision or speech, medical assessment should always be your first step.
Final thoughts
Understanding the difference between headaches and migraines helps guide the right care at the right time. While migraines often require medical management, many headaches have a strong physical and postural component that shouldn’t be overlooked.
If tension, posture or neck discomfort seem to play a role in your symptoms, at Tan Chiro, we can help you find relief through targeted, supportive care. Book an assessment today to better understand your headache pattern and explore your care options.