Why do headaches seem more common in winter?
Many people notice they experience more tension headaches during the colder months. While headaches can have many different causes, winter often brings together a combination of factors that may contribute to increased muscle tension around the neck and shoulders.
As the weather cools, people often spend more time indoors, sit for longer periods and move less throughout the day. Commuting in cold weather, working at a desk for extended periods and spending more time looking at screens can all contribute to increased tension in the muscles of the neck and upper back.
For some people, this tension may be associated with headaches that begin at the base of the skull and spread towards the forehead or behind the eyes.
Why can winter contribute to tension headaches?
Several factors commonly experienced during winter may play a role, including:
- prolonged sitting and reduced movement
- muscle tension caused by colder temperatures
- extended computer or screen use
- poor workstation setup
- reduced mobility through the neck and upper back
- lower fluid intake during cooler weather.
These factors can build gradually over time, making headaches more frequent for some people.
How might an osteopath help?
Osteopaths are trained to assess how the body’s muscles, joints and movement patterns may be contributing to a person’s symptoms.
During an assessment, an osteopath may consider:
- how well the neck and upper back are moving
- muscle tension around the neck, shoulders and jaw
- posture and workstation setup
- daily activities and movement habits that may be contributing to symptoms.
Osteopaths may also provide education about posture, ergonomic setup and strategies to help manage muscle tension.
If your headache is severe, sudden, persistent, worsening, follows a head injury or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, weakness, numbness or changes to vision or speech, seek urgent medical assessment.
What can you do at home?
There are several simple strategies that may help reduce muscle tension during winter:
Move regularly
Avoid sitting in the same position for long periods. Standing, stretching or taking a short walk every 30 to 60 minutes can help keep the neck and upper back moving.
Check your workstation
Position your screen so the top is approximately at eye level and keep your keyboard and mouse within comfortable reach to encourage a more neutral posture.
Gentle neck exercises
Simple exercises, such as gently drawing your chin backwards while keeping your head level, may help improve posture. Your osteopath can recommend exercises that are appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Stay hydrated
People sometimes drink less water during winter. Maintaining adequate hydration is an important part of overall health and may assist normal muscle function.
When should you seek advice?
Occasional headaches are common, but if your headaches become more frequent, are interfering with your daily activities, or you are unsure of the cause, it is important to seek advice from a qualified health professional.
An osteopath can assess whether musculoskeletal factors may be contributing to your symptoms and, where appropriate, work with you as part of your overall healthcare.
If you are experiencing frequent or persistent headaches, or think muscle tension may be contributing to your symptoms, consider seeking advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
If appropriate, you can find an Osteopathy Australia osteopath near you using the Find an osteo directory.
This article has been adapted by Osteopathy Australia for What is Osteo. It was originally published by Osteopathy Australia member Melbourne Osteopathy Sports Injury Clinic.