Use of Physical Therapy To Treat Headaches

Use of physical therapy to treat headaches - women with an ice bag on her head

We usually think of physical therapy as a treatment for injuries or muscle pain, but did you know that it can also help get rid of headaches?

Each of us experiences headaches caused by stress or fatigue at some point, but when they become recurrent and interfere with your daily life, it could signal the need for a more intensive approach. Physical therapy can provide relief and a long-term solution for people suffering from chronic headaches.

Some people who come to the office for headaches report that this is the only symptom they experience. However, most patients have noted additional problems in connection with their headaches, such as the neck or shoulder pain. Headaches are often linked to other injuries that can be treated simultaneously, but the pain of the head can also be treated on its own.

Like any other injury, your first appointment will likely involve an assessment and interview so that the therapist can determine which type of a headache you suffer from (ie headache tension, migraines or headaches after another muscle pain or joint injury) and then design an individualized treatment plan for you. A physiotherapist can identify the roots of your headaches and find all connections, such as spasms of the facial muscles, poor posture, or the seal between the shoulder blades.

Depending on the structure and type of a headache you are suffering, treatments vary and can be combined. The application of heat / ice, stretching, spinal manipulation, and education of posture are often used.

The therapist may ask you to make changes or exercise at home, in addition to the work you do together in the office. For example, if she found out that your headaches are the result of neck fatigue or poor posture, it may be advisable to change your sleeping conditions or adjust your office chair to take the pressure off your muscles neck. Continue the exercises at home will maintain improvements and help you solve any pain that comes between sessions.

Treatment of headaches with physical therapy can provide benefits beyond getting rid of the pain or throbbing in its head. It can also improve joint mobility and strengthen muscles in the back and upper neck, which will effectively reduce the risk of chronic headaches returned. A headache is often different feel discomfort even worse, so treatment of headaches can have a chain reaction and give you a clear mind to treat other aches and pains.

Some patients see immediate improvements, while others do not feel significant results for several weeks. It all depends on the severity and the root of your head or neck pain. If different approaches and treatment exercises do not improve your symptoms, your therapist may refer you to a doctor to check if the headaches come from a more serious illness. Most headaches are relatively harmless, but if your headaches involve the rapid onset of severe pain, accompanied by vomiting, confusion or loss of consciousness, contact a health professional immediately.

When the headaches are frequent and ongoing, they can interfere with our jobs, relationships, sleep and quality of life. If you experience recurring headaches and have tried other remedies without success, physical therapy might be a good option for you.