Headaches and Migraines
It is likely that all of us have suffered with a headache or migraine at some point in our lives. Some headaches may come and go very quickly whilst others may be much more severe and pro-longed.
Headaches and migraines affect approximately two-thirds of the population and are often seen in those with poor posture, office workers and people under stress. This kind of headache is called a ‘cervical headache.’
What causes Headaches and Migraines?
Cervical headaches are caused by the stiffness and tightness of the joints, muscles, fascia and nerves in the neck. People often report a steady, dull ache on the forehead, temples or back of the head.
This can occur following direct trauma, such as a ‘whiplash’ injury, during sporting activities or when working for long periods at a desk with a poor posture. This can lead to tight muscles and joints in the neck, shoulders and upper back which in turn manifest themselves as a headache.
People with arthritis in the neck (spondylosis) can also develop cervical headaches. The onset is usually gradual and may be present for days, weeks or even months.
What are the symptoms/effects of a Headache or Migraine?
Common symptoms of a headache include:
- Pain at the back and base of the skull and neck
- Pain behind the eyebrows and forehead
- Stiffness in the neck
- Nausea and or vomiting
- Pins and needles/paraesthesia
- Increased sensitive to light and sound
Physiotherapy treatment for Headaches and Migraines
At Cleethorpes Physio Clinic we regularly assess and treat people suffering from headaches and migraines and are only too aware of the overwhelming disruption this can cause to your every day life, not to mention sleep deprivation and increased anxiety. We can help you to overcome these problems.
Our physiotherapists will initially look at your current symptoms including pain, range of movement, strength and function, in order to develop a specialised treatment program suited to you.
Physiotherapy treatment may include:
- Mobilisation of the joints in the neck
- Acupuncture
- Stretching and strengthening of the neck muscles
- Soft tissue massage to release tight muscles
- Trigger point release
- Postural retraining.
- Ergonomic workstation assessment and lifestyle advice
Your physiotherapist at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic will guide and support you through your rehabilitation program in order to rectify the current problem and help to prevent further recurrence of headaches and migraines.
