What is chiropractic treatment?

Chiropractic is a regulated healthcare profession focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those involving the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques — including spinal adjustments, mobilisations, and soft tissue work — to restore normal function, relieve pain, and support the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

Chiropractic treatment is generally very safe when performed by a registered practitioner. All chiropractors at Kingston Chiropractic are registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), which regulates the profession in the UK. We conduct a thorough health assessment before any treatment begins to ensure it is appropriate for you.

What conditions can a chiropractor treat?

Chiropractic treatment is effective for a wide range of conditions including back pain, neck pain, headaches and migraines, sciatica, shoulder pain, hip pain, sports injuries, and postural problems. We also offer nervous system assessment and posture correction as part of our holistic approach to wellness.

Headache & Migraine Treatment Kingston upon Thames

Up to 70% of headaches are tension-type or cervicogenic — meaning they originate from the neck, skull-base muscles, and upper cervical joints. These headaches are highly responsive to chiropractic treatment, which addresses the mechanical dysfunction driving them rather than simply masking the pain.

Dr Kelly performing a cervical assessment for headache treatment at Kingston Chiropractic

Types of Headache We Treat

Cervicogenic headaches

Highly responsive to chiropractic

Originate from the upper cervical spine (C1–C3 joints). Pain typically starts at the base of the skull and spreads forward to the forehead, temple, or eye. Often on one side. Worsened by neck movement or sustained postures.

Tension-type headaches

Responds well to chiropractic

Dull, pressing, or band-like pain around the head. Often bilateral. Associated with stress, poor posture, and upper trapezius/suboccipital muscle tension. The most common headache type.

Migraines

Chiropractic may reduce frequency

Moderate to severe unilateral throbbing pain, often with nausea and sensitivity to light/sound. Evidence suggests chiropractic reduces migraine frequency and intensity, particularly when cervical dysfunction is a trigger.

Post-traumatic headaches

Assessment required

Following whiplash or head injury. Assessment of the cervical spine often reveals treatable dysfunction contributing to ongoing headaches.

Is Your Headache Coming From Your Neck?

Cervicogenic headaches are frequently misdiagnosed as migraine or tension headache. Signs that your headache may be cervicogenic:

✓ Headache triggered or worsened by neck movement

✓ Pain starts at the base of skull and spreads forward

✓ Reduced neck mobility alongside headaches

✓ Neck pain or stiffness present alongside headaches

✓ Headaches worsened by sustained desk/screen posture

✓ One-sided headache that doesn't shift sides

The Evidence for Chiropractic and Headaches

Multiple high-quality randomised controlled trials support chiropractic for headache management:

→ A Cochrane systematic review found spinal manipulation effective for cervicogenic headache
→ Studies show chiropractic produces results comparable to medication for tension headache — without the side effects
→ Migraine frequency reduced by up to 50% in some chiropractic RCTs
→ The European Headache Federation recommends manual therapy as a preventative approach

How We Treat Headaches at Kingston Chiropractic

✓ Full history of headache type, frequency, triggers, and previous treatments

✓ Cervical spine assessment — mobility, joint tenderness, postural analysis

✓ Targeted upper cervical chiropractic adjustments (C0–C3)

✓ Suboccipital and upper trapezius soft tissue release

✓ Advice on headache triggers and lifestyle factors

✓ Referral for neurological review if red flags are present

⚠️ Seek urgent medical attention if your headache:

•Comes on suddenly and is the worst headache of your life ("thunderclap headache") — call 999
•Is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light (possible meningitis)
•Follows a head injury
•Is progressive and worsening over weeks
•Is accompanied by confusion, weakness, or speech problems

Stop managing headaches — treat the cause

Book your £37 initial consultation today.

Book Online — £37 Call 020 8549 5409

Headache & Migraine Treatment in Kingston upon Thames