Headaches can be so debilitating, draining you of your energy and making it hard to concentrate. Did you know that headache pain is the third most common pain complaint worldwide? Many people do not realize that physical therapy for headaches is one of the best, most effective treatments available today.
Physical therapy can treat headaches that are caused by musculoskeletal issues including muscle tension and tightness, disc pathology, lack of neck motion, poor posture, and even tightness in the back between the shoulder blades. Not only does PT reduce pain for these patients, but it also may prevent their attacks.
When someone comes to the clinic with reports of frequent headaches, an evaluation will be performed to determine where the problem may be and what to do about it. Once determined that the headaches are most likely originating from musculoskeletal problems in the neck or surrounding areas, several treatment methods may be used. Treatment may include use of heat or ice, soft tissue mobilization, cervical traction, muscular releases and muscle energy techniques, shoulder blade, mid back, rib, and neck mobilizations, neck stretches, neck and mid back strengthening, pec stretches, McKenzie based diagnosis and therapy of the spine, and posture education. Each patient is treated differently, as each headache may be caused by something unique to each individual. If it is determined that the headaches are not being caused by a musculoskeletal issue then our physical therapists can assist in referring patients to the appropriate physician for their issue.
How does this work?
One of our physical therapists, Julia Sketo-Harrison, DPT, explains, “In some patients, headaches may be triggered by musculoskeletal problems stemming from the muscles and joints in the neck, causing pain to be “referred” to the head. While other patients’ neck joint or jaw problems may also trigger headaches. By treating the neck and jaw musculoskeletal problems with PT and individual’s headaches may be reduced by relieving stress and tension on soft tissue and joints.” Physical therapy treatment for headaches can be extremely effective and work pretty quickly. Some patients may come into the clinic with a headache on their first visit and leave without one. Some patients may require a few weeks of therapy to address more severe motion and strength issues.
If you currently suffer from headaches, answer these questions to determine if physical therapy for your headache is appropriate.
How often do you:
- Wake with a headache?
- Get a headache after sitting for prolonged periods of time at your computer
- Note neck pain, stiffness or soreness along with your headache?
- Grind or brux your teeth at night?
- Feel tender or sore “knots” in the muscles of the neck, upper back and shoulders?
- Note that your jaw/shoulders “clench” when under stress or with prolonged work?
- Sit most of the day?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then physical therapy for headaches may be a good choice for your relief. According to Julia, “Persistent headaches that are musculoskeletal in nature and have been occurring for a long time may not go away completely until they are addressed with therapy. Physical therapy is definitely worth trying when headaches are part of your everyday life!”
As always, we are happy to see you for a screening to discuss if your headaches may respond well to therapy!
Contact us at 318-443-3311 so that we can help you get relief from your headache pain – your head and brain will thank you!!!
