Physical therapy can be quite effective in managing certain types of headaches, particularly cervicogenic and tension headaches. These are headaches that originate from problems in the neck and upper spine.

We will start with a thorough assessment to determine the cause of the headaches. We’ll examine your neck mobility, the alignment of your spine, your posture, and muscle tension in the neck and upper back.

Based on our findings, we will create a customized treatment plan that may include the following approaches…

• Manual Therapy – Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization/manipulation can help to decrease muscle tension and improve mobility in the neck and upper back. These treatments can help alleviate the underlying causes of headaches.
• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises – We teach you exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of the neck and upper back muscles. Strong and flexible muscles can help maintain proper posture, which can prevent headaches.
• Posture Education – Poor posture is a common contributor to headaches. Your physical therapist can teach you techniques to improve your posture while standing, sitting, or even sleeping. This may involve ergonomics assessments to help adjust your workspace or home setup to reduce strain on your neck.
• Relaxation Techniques and Stress Management – Stress and tension can contribute to headaches. A physical therapist may teach you relaxation exercises or breathing techniques to help manage stress and reduce muscle tension.
• Heat/Ice – Application of heat or cold can help alleviate pain during a headache episode. Your therapist can provide guidance on what would work best for you.

Always remember that while physical therapy can be extremely beneficial for some headache sufferers, it’s good to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider to ensure appropriate treatment. This is particularly important as headaches can sometimes be symptoms of other or more serious health conditions.