How Functional Neurology Addresses the Real Causes of Headaches

Headaches, a common yet often debilitating condition, can arise from various causes and affect individuals in diverse ways. We  take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating headaches by focusing on the underlying neurological and musculoskeletal factors that contribute to this condition. Through a thorough assessment that includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and specialized neurological tests, functional neurologists identify imbalances and dysfunctions within the nervous system that may be causing or exacerbating headaches.

Treatment is highly personalized and may incorporate a range of interventions designed to address both neurological and musculoskeletal components. These may include targeted rehabilitation exercises to improve posture and muscle function, manual therapy techniques to relieve tension and correct joint dysfunction, and sensory stimulation to enhance neurological function. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, nutritional support, and stress management strategies are often integrated into the treatment plan to promote overall health and prevent future headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Daily headaches can happen due to stress, poor sleep, dehydration, eye strain, caffeine habits, or skipped meals. They can also be linked to sinus issues, anxiety, hormonal changes, or medication overuse. If headaches are persistent or getting worse, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying medical causes.

We work with patients experiencing a wide range of headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and headaches related to posture or neurological dysfunction. Our approach focuses on identifying and correcting the underlying causes rather than simply managing symptoms.

While all migraines are headaches, not all headaches are migraines. The key differences come down to symptoms, cause, and severity:

Headaches

  • Typically involve pain or pressure on both sides of the head
  • Can be mild to moderate in intensity
  • Often caused by tension, stress, dehydration, posture issues, or muscle tightness
  • Usually do not include neurological symptoms

Migraines

  • A neurological condition that causes moderate to severe head pain, often on one side
  • Commonly accompanied by additional symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, visual disturbances (aura), dizziness, or tingling sensations
  • Can last from a few hours to several days
  • Often triggered by factors like hormonal changes, certain foods, stress, sensory overload, or neurological dysfunction

Many patients notice changes within a few sessions, while others may require more time depending on the severity and duration of their symptoms. Your functional neurologist will regularly reassess your progress and adjust your plan to ensure you are moving toward long-term relief.

Instead of relying solely on medication, we take a holistic approach that addresses both neurological and musculoskeletal components. Treatment plans are highly individualized and designed to improve nervous system function, support posture, reduce tension, and promote long-term relief.

Areas We Serve

We proudly serve individuals in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and the surrounding Inland Northwest communities, including:

  • Post Falls, ID
  • Hayden, ID
  • Rathdrum, ID
  • Silver Valley, ID
  • Spokane Valley, WA
  • Liberty Lake, WA
  • Spokane, WA
  • Athol & Bayview, ID
  • Dalton Gardens, ID

If you’re located in or near Kootenai County or the greater Coeur d’Alene area, we’re here to help you find lasting relief from chronic headaches.

Ready to Get to the Root of Your Headaches?

You don’t have to live with constant discomfort. Our functional neurology approach targets the underlying neurological and musculoskeletal causes of headaches to create real, lasting change.

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