Headaches are one of the most common complaints of patients and can have a disabling effect on its sufferers. Some people struggle to get through their day without having a handful of pills and medication.
What are the types of Headaches?
There are two broad categories of headaches, namely:
- Vascular Headaches, which include: Migraine, Cluster and Tension-type Headaches
- Non-Vascular Headaches, which include: Cervicogenic, exercise related and post-traumatic headaches.
The Tension-type headache and Cervicogenic type (including exercise related and post-traumatic e.g., whiplash injury) headaches can be treated by Physiotherapy.
| Cervicogenic Headache | Tension Type Headache |
| Originates from the cervical spine | Tight band around the head and forehead (connected to muscle tension in the forehead, face and neck) |
| Bilateral or Unilateral headaches that don’t shift side | Bilateral, band like pain |
| Associated with unilateral neck, shoulder, or arm pain | Mild photo/phono-sensitivity |
| Aggravated by stiff muscles, active trigger points or bad posture | Prevalent in young adults |
| Restricted neck movement | Tension or spasm of the surrounding neck and shoulder muscles |
How can Physiotherapy help?
A Physiotherapist will start by asking about the history and onset of the headaches, previous trauma and factors that might contribute to the headache. The physiotherapist will then do an evaluation of the jaw and neck to look out for any stiffness and dysfunction in the joints, muscles, and nerves. Treatment will focus on the mobilization of the cervical joints and jaw, myofascial release of stiff muscles and trigger points and neural mobilization of the cervical nerves. Treatment also includes posture correction, exercises to strengthen the neck and shoulders and stress management techniques. Physiotherapy helps reduce the intensity and frequency that one experiences headaches. It is important to understand that it is not a quick fix, and your physiotherapist will guide you on managing your headaches. Every patient is different and will be treated according to the specific needs of each patient in a holistic manner.
