Research shows that almost 2/3 of the population suffer from headaches. The majority of these headaches are caused by the neck, resulting in a cervicogenic or ‘tension’ headache. Neck problems can cause pain to refer into various parts of the head, which is often due to stiffness in the joints of neck and / or irritation of the nerves in the neck. Headaches can range from being constant, throbbing intense pain to a dull, intermittent pain.
Some common symptoms of a tension headache may include:
- history of trauma to the neck (i.e. whiplash, repetitive work or sporting activity).
- often appears as a slow, gradual onset.
- described as a constant, steady, dull ache.
- maybe present for days / weeks / months.
- stiffness and restricted range of movement of the neck.
- the headache can travel from the back to the front of the head and
may be worse on one side. - headache is brought on by particular neck movements or sustained postures eg. sleeping face down with the head turned to one side, using a pillow that does not provide good support or sitting at a desk for long periods of time.
- headache appears to ease when pressure is applied to the neck or the
base of the skull. May include light-headedness and nausea.
Physiotherapy is a very effective treatment for relieving these types of headaches. Your physiotherapist will need to complete a thorough assessment to determine the cause of your headache, which will then help to determine an individualised treatment plan so that the best results can be obtained for you. Some of the treatment techniques that may be used to provide relief include:
- Joint mobilisation
- Soft tissue mobilisation
- Traction
- Muscle energy technique
- Electrotherapy
- Dry needling
- Postural assessment and advice
- Exercises
A referral to you GP may be made if further investigation is warranted or your headache is of a non-neck related cause, ensuring you are receiving the optimal management for your headaches.
If you are suffering from headaches and would like long term relief using the most up to date techniques, then call our practice on 03 9716 2250 and organise to see one of our experienced physiotherapists today!