Headaches

Headaches can be due to a number of reasons. Our physiotherapists can classify your headache and make a treatment plan based on their findings. We also are trained in identifying ‘red flags’, or symptoms associated with the headache that may be cause for concern. In these situations, you will promptly be referred for the correct medical assistance.

Common Headache Presentations:

Tension headache
“Swim cap” pressure around the head, less specific and often related to stress, lack of sleep, fatigue or lack of exercise. These factors always need to be addressed along with the physical symptoms.
Cervicogenic headache
Headaches occurring secondary to an issue in the neck, often associated with neck, shoulder or upper back pain. These are often one sided, travel up the back of the head and sometimes behind one eye.
Migraines
Migraines are more complicated and often have triggers such a food groups, alcohol, stress and lack of sleep. They have an associated aura, and often light and/or sound sensitivity. There is less direct benefit from physiotherapy for migraines, and they usually require rest, sleep, darkness and often medication.

What Can We Do?

Hands On Physiotherapy:

This involves treating the structures that may be contributing to the headache.

Soft tissue massage of the neck, upper back, and shoulders
Mobilisation of the neck and thoracic spine
Dry needling
TMJ treatment where indicated
Taping

Exercise Based Physiotherapy:

Postural assessment and exercises to assist with correcting posture.
Stretches and exercises to improve range of movement around the neck.
Strengthening of the upper back and shoulders to assist in reducing the load on the structures around the cervical spine.

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