Headaches and Migraines

Almost 20% of headaches are of the cervicogenic variety, meaning they are caused directly by the cervical spine (neck). The pain of a cervicogenic headache is usually on one side of the head, originating in the neck, and then spreading towards the front of the head. Pain may be triggered or exacerbated by neck movements or a particular neck position.  It can also be replicated by applying pressure over certain parts of the neck. One of the main causes of a cervicogenic headache is poor posture. The pain that is felt may be a dull ache or a throbbing pain.  It can range from mild and intermittent to intense and constant. The headaches typically start as intermittent episodes and then progress to an almost continuous pain.

Most headaches are impacted by stress. When we are stressed, our neck muscles tense on a chronic basis and become irritated. Along with other triggers, this can start a headache or migraine. It is why many headache sufferers have symptoms later on in the day. 

How our physiotherapists can help

Our skilled physiotherapists will examine for many different factors that may be contributing to the causes of your headache or migraine. They will assess your alignment, posture, joint movement in the neck, as well as the muscle strength in your neck, upper back and shoulders.

If there are limitations in movement or strength in the neck or upper back, this will be addressed in your treatment plan. Acupuncture can also be an effective tool in the treatment of headaches.  In addition, our therapists will teach you exercises and techniques that you can use to prevent future occurrences.  Book an appointment today so that we can help ease your headaches!