Physiotherapy for Headaches

Headaches

Overview

A headache is pain experienced in any part of your head. Headaches can be caused by a number of things, ranging from stress to underlying health issues. According to the International Headache Society there are more than 200 different types of headaches.

The two most common types of headache are migraines and tension-type headaches. A migraine is characterised by a moderate to severe headache, the pain is usually throbbing in nature and is often worse on one side of the head than the other. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and seeing bright lights are all symptoms that may be experienced with a migraine. A tension type headache is usually pain on both sides of your head, with mild to moderate pain.

Other symptoms can include; sensation of tightness or pressure across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head, dull aching head pain and tenderness in the scalp, neck and shoulder muscles.

Headaches are classified into two categories, a primary headache is defined as occurring on their own and not as a result of another health issue, a secondary headache results from another health problem. Primary headaches can be triggered by lifestyle factors such as caffeine, certain foods such as processed meats containing nitrates, bad posture, changes in sleep patterns or lack of sleep, alcohol particularly red wine, poor work conditions, stress and hormonal changes (in women).

Secondary headaches can stem from other health problems such as sinuses – acute or chronic sinus infections, teeth – including dental problems, blood vessels – high blood pressure, medicines and their side effects, eyes – eye strain or glaucoma as well as from nerves – such as shingles. Head injuries and dehydration are also very common causes of secondary headaches. Symptoms of headaches may include throbbing, pain in your head, an aching sensation pain behind the eye, blurred vision, pins and needles or numbness.

Regent Street Physiotherapy can help with headaches, neck pain and other conditions relating to the musculoskeletal system. We can provide effective treatment for headaches that are caused by musculoskeletal issues such as tension in the neck and shoulders, poor postures or jaw problems.

Factors that our physio’s will consider when diagnosing your headache will include the degree of pain experienced, the location of pain (such as around one eye or over the scalp), how often the headache recurs, the duration of the headache, other symptoms such as a sore neck or visual disturbances, factors that improve the headache such as massage and factors that worsen the headache such as certain foods.

Physiotherapy can provide a variety of treatments including massage, joint mobilisation, stretching and strengthening exercises, dry needling and postural correction to alleviate headache symptoms and prevent their recurrence. Your physiotherapist may also assess your home and work ergonomics and recommend appropriate changes to assist with your recovery.