Children often complain of headaches, but there is rarely a serious cause. It may be due to a related problem, such as ear ache or sinusitis or may be due to anxiety over something, over-tiredness or over-exertion.
What you can do
Watch out for other symptoms such as ear ache or raised temperature. The child may be overheated, so open a window or go for a walk, or if they prefer, he them down in a darkened room. Check your child has not had a fall or been injured, which may be causing the headache. Try to get them to relax as much as possible. One study found that relaxation training helped to increase headache-free days by 15 per cent.
Treatment
Naturopathy
The practitioner will try to find a link to the headaches. The cause may be dehydration. A naturopath will ask about the child’s frequency of urinating, bowel habits and how many times they drink during the day. Their diet will be looked at in case a food intolerance, for example to cheese or chocolate, may be a trigger. Mineral and vitamins may be deficient so mineral salts such as magnesium and potassium phosphates and an increase in vitamins B and C may be recommended. Cooling or warming compresses may be applied to soothe any neck or head tensions, as well as massage, which can be taught to the parent. Herbal medicine may also be used to strengthen the nervous system and give pain relief.
Chiropractic
The chiropractor would first rule out any serious causes of recurrent headaches before examining for neck joint and muscular dysfunction. If the chiropractor finds a structural problem, they will use appropriate Migraine Headache Therapy for the manipulation and mobilization of the affected joints, according to the child’s age.
If this does not resolve the issue, additional potential imbalances—such as those in the jaw or pelvis—will be assessed, as these may be contributing to the condition. Guidance on posture and ergonomics will also be provided to support long-term improvement. Book an appointment with a trusted chiropractor in Beamsville today.
Osteopathy
An osteopath may interpret headaches as the result of mechanical imbalances within the body, where tension increases muscle tone in the neck and head. Restrictions in the cranial area can interfere with the function of arteries and veins, leading to congestion and inflammation. In such cases, an osteopath would focus on relieving tension in the cranial region to restore proper circulation and alleviate symptoms.
Aromatherapy
If your child suffers from headaches or migraine, an aromatherapist may use a combination of oils to help bring relief. Roman Chamomile has properties which act as an analgesic as well as helping to soothe the nerves. Lemon may also be used as it helps to stimulate the body to produce white corpuscles to help fight off infection, of which a headache may be just one symptom.
Caution
If symptoms include temperature, a stiff neck, lethargy and a dislike of bright lights, it may be a sign of a more dangerous condition, such as meningitis or encephalitis, and medical help should be immediately called.
Other therapies that may be beneficial: biochemic tissue salts, ocupuncture.
