Can massage help with headaches?
Yes. Many headaches start with tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Gliding cupping massage is a great way to ease that tension and the head and neck discomfort it can cause.
Do I need imaging like an MRI before my first visit?
No. You do not need imaging before your first visit. If imaging would be helpful to clarify your diagnosis, your nurse practitioner can order it as part of your care.
How long will it take to see results?
Some patients notice meaningful improvement within the first few weeks of consistent care. Chronic and complex cases take longer. At your first visit, your care team will give you a realistic estimate based on your specific situation and history.
What kinds of headaches do you not treat?
We do not manage primary migraine as a neurological condition, sudden severe headaches that need urgent evaluation, headaches caused by other underlying medical conditions, or post-concussion headaches as a primary diagnosis. If your headaches do not fit our scope, we will tell you honestly at your first visit and help point you in the right […]
I am already on medication for migraines. Should I keep taking it?
That is a conversation to have with the provider who prescribed it. Wellspring does not manage migraine medication. Many patients continue their existing migraine care while also working with us on the musculoskeletal side. The two approaches often complement each other.
I have been diagnosed with migraines. Are you saying it is actually my neck?
Not necessarily. Migraine is a real neurological condition. What we are saying is that for many people diagnosed with migraines, there is a musculoskeletal contributor (neck tension, posture, jaw or shoulder tension) that makes the migraines worse and more frequent. Addressing that contributor often makes a meaningful difference even when the underlying migraine condition stays […]
Can physical therapy actually help with headaches?
Yes, for many patients. Tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches (headaches that start in the neck) often respond very well to combined PT and therapeutic massage. We treat the headaches by treating the muscular and postural patterns that keep triggering them. Many patients see fewer and less severe headaches within a few weeks of consistent care.