Osteopaths at Bedford Integrative Health Centre are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Migraine

The most common kind of debilitating headache is the migraine which inflict a very intense pain for a period varying from minutes to many hours. In the UK it is understood that almost eight million people have suffered from migraine attacks. Some only rarely but for a minority it can be a regular cause of disabling pain substantially impacting work and family life. Whilst the cause is not well understood doctors note the correlation between attacks and an imbalance of the hormone serotonin. As serotonin can constrict veins and arteries the imbalance can cause the vessels to be become engorged which is the source of the pain. Triggers can again vary but include stress, bright lights, hormonal imbalances (often caused by the menstrual cycle) and even various food types. Cranial osteopaths frequently treat migraine sufferers by working gently to promote improved level of drainage from the veins of the head and neck as well as working to reduce muscle tension at the base of the skull.

Colic

Colic is the name given to babies who suffer intense episodes of uncontrollable crying which may persist for hours at time. Colic affects very young babies is typically by the time the baby is 6 months old. There is no single recognised cause for colic.Theories include gastro-intestinal immaturity, wind, and food intolerance. Whilst it is not a dangerous illness it is nevertheless a cause of great discomfort for both the baby and parents who will find it as difficult to sleep as their off-spring. The symptoms vary but tend to include an inability to sleep partcularly on the back, stomach pain, and vomiting. Many parents have found cranial osteopathy to be an effective treatment providing relief to babies who often benefits from even the first treatment, leaving much calmer and more relaxed.