Did you know that headaches can be treated with physiotherapy?
According to Kisner* 15 to 20 percent of headaches are diagnosed as “cervical headaches” and
are caused by musculoskeletal impairments: injuries, anxieties and emotional stress, poor
posture, tension in the soft tissue surrounding the back of the cervical spine and pain on the
attachment of the muscles.
Most of us have jobs that require us to stay in one position for long periods of times. Many
times we have to work with things that are placed in front of us (like when we look at a monitor
and use a keyboard) for several hours. Such positions can increase the tension in the soft tissue
surrounding the neck and shoulders. Over time, the muscles attached to the upper part of the
cervical spine can become overloaded and short. Tight and overloaded muscles don’t receive
enough oxygen and nutrition and will end up in pain. The pain can radiate into the scalp, eyes,
shoulders and upper back and if remains untreated, it can potentially lead to long term
dysfunctions.
“Therapists can effectively treat headaches if they were caused by trauma or stress or if
function triggers the onset and/or pain begins in the neck and becomes a headache”. At
PhysioD, (Physiotherapy clinic, Toronto, ON), you and your physiotherapist will go through the
history of your injury and pain. Manual soft tissue releasing techniques as well as some gentle
exercises will be used to elongate the tight muscles and relieve the tension in the upper cervical
spine. You will most probably be asked to bring in a photo of your work station, or describe
what your job includes to receive tips on how to manage the tension on a daily basis. Finally
you will receive a home exercise program for maintenance and prevention.
If this is the first time you are experiencing headaches or if you are not sure about the reason
for your pain, contact PhysioD today for a free consultation. You may reach our clinic by phone
(416.224.8484) or by email ([email protected]).
- Therapeutic Exercise – Foundations and Techniques – 7th Edition
