At least ¾ of headaches involve the musculoskeletal system.  The most common types of headaches are cervicogenic, tension and migraine.  Headaches can also be caused by more serious pathology such as a tumor, aneurysm or meningitis, but these more serious causes account for 1% of all reported headaches. 

Cervicogenic headaches are purely of musculoskeletal origin, which can include trigger points in muscles that refer pain to different areas of the head and face, spinal joint dysfunction and increased sensitivity of the nerves that supply the face and head with sensation.

Migraine headaches are more neurological in nature and are caused by changes in the levels of blood flow in the brain.  These are often due to certain food triggers.

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and are usually a combination of neurological and musculoskeletal origins.  There is usually muscle tension combined with increased sensitivity of the nerves.

Muscle tension leading to headaches can be caused by poor posture and biomechanics, muscle imbalances, repetitive motion and stress.

Treatment

It is important to first determine the type of headache and the triggers.  Once these triggers are determined, they will be addressed appropriately.  If nutritional or external triggers are a factor, they should be removed.  A program of stress management and relief should be implemented.  Treatment for headaches usually includes trigger point therapy, functional soft tissue techniques (A.R.T. and/or Graston), joint manipulation, functional rehabilitation and nutritional counseling.  Restoration of normal movement patterns, postural correction and stress management are essential in the treatment of headaches.