Headaches: not only are they painful, but they can also be disabling.
Did you know that headaches are among the most common disorders of the nervous system?
There are many types of headaches, some of the most common types being migraines, cervicogenic, and tension-type headaches:
Typical Migraines:
The cause of migraines is still unknown, but there seems to be a relationship between individual genetics and the environment. Migraines are commonly associated with triggers. These can include hormonal changes, food and additives, stress, and certain medications.
Symptoms include intense throbbing or pulsing sensation on one or both sides of the head frequently accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. Migraines can be preceded by an “aura” that can present as a flash of light, blind spots or tingling.
Cervicogenic headaches:
Cervicogenic headaches stem from the structures of neck. Pain can be triggered or worsened by neck movement and usually presents on one side of the head. The pain can start at the base of the skull and spread to the front of the head.
Tension-type headaches (TTH):
TTH is the most common primary headache disorder. It occurs due to tension in the muscles of the neck which produces pain. Pain most commonly presents at the end of the day in a headband pattern, along your forehead. Factors associated can include stress, anxiety, eyestrain, poor posture, injuries and others.
How to treat your headaches?
Physiotherapists can assess, diagnose and manage headaches; however, in some cases referral and co-management may be the most appropriate course of treatment. Evidence has demonstrated that physiotherapy, including manual therapy, can be an effective treatment for cervicogenic and tension-type headaches. More so, studies have demonstrated that care offered by physiotherapists can also decrease the intensity and frequency of migraines. Depending on the findings of the history and patient examination, the physiotherapist may recommend patient reassurance, soft tissue therapy, spinal mobilization, modalities such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and lifestyle recommendations. However, the plan of management will be individualized to the patient’s needs and examination findings.
If this resonates with you, you should consider booking in with our team today for a multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to treating your headaches. Let’s get you pain free and back to living again!
