Physical therapy for headache relief
Physical therapy isn’t typically the first thought when dealing with a headache—most people reach for pain-relieving medication. While these medications may offer short-term relief, they don't provide the long-term benefits that physical therapy can, especially for chronic headaches or migraines.
Many headaches are cervicogenic, meaning they originate from neck issues. Poor posture, stress, and other factors can cause strain and injury to the neck muscles and joints, leading to pain that radiates to the scalp, side of the head, and forehead.
If you are in New York, Midtown East & Penn Plaza, and suffer from headaches, you are not alone. Approximately 80-90% of people in the U.S. experience occasional or frequent tension headaches. They are the third most commonly reported source of pain worldwide. Whether acute and temporary or constant and chronic, headaches can be treated with physical therapy at Integrative Physio Approach. Request your appointment today!
How can physical therapy help my headache?
If you are suffering from headaches, contact our New York physical therapy office today. At Integrative Physio Approach, we are dedicated to providing the best treatments for your headaches.
At your initial appointment, one of our highly trained physical therapists will conduct a physical evaluation and ask about your health history and symptoms to determine the type of headache you are experiencing and where the pain is originating from. A treatment plan will then be designed specifically for you and your recovery.
What type of headache am I experiencing?
Many people don't realize that there are different types of headaches, each developing from various causes. The three main types of headaches include:
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Cervicogenic headaches are related to neck pain and involve the top three vertebrae of the neck. These headaches can develop from conditions like concussions or arthritis, but work-related strain can also trigger them. Professions that require a down-turned head or neck motion, such as hairdressers, long-haul drivers, chefs, nail artists, and jewelers, are prone to cervicogenic headaches.
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Musculoskeletal headaches occur due to significant tension in the neck, often from physical imbalances, weaknesses, or damage. Emotional tension, such as stress, can also contribute. Traumatic neck injuries, like whiplash, are common causes. These injuries can lead to torn or strained muscles and connective tissues in the neck, causing pain in the head, face, shoulders, or neck.
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Tension headaches are the most common form and result from repetitive motions or poor posture in the neck/head. They are caused by a strain on the “dura mater,” a sensitive membrane that envelops the brain. When the dura mater becomes strained, it causes small muscles at the base of the skull to spasm, sending pain signals to the brain and causing a headache.
At Integrative Physio Approach, our headache treatments focus on relieving pain, improving posture, and strengthening muscles in the neck and upper back. These treatments will help make your daily life more comfortable and bearable—without the pain of headaches! To schedule your appointment, contact us today to speak to one of our physical therapists.