Did you know that physiotherapists can help with headaches? Due to our training, Physios have insights which help to figure out where the head
ache is coming from. Once we figure it out, we can provide the right advice and treatment plan geared towards getting you answers and feeling better!
We’re the ones on the sidelines,
In work or play…
We’ve got your back, (or your neck!),
Literally.
What is a cervicogenic headache?
· Cervico: from the neck region or Cervical spine
· Genic: genesis or beginning from or arising from
· Headache: pain, heaviness, pressure, ache at or around the back, side, top of the head, base of the skull, forehead, temple, or eyes.
Often misdiagnosed, this is a common cause of chronic headache and pain because it has similar symptoms to migraine or tension headaches.
Cervicogenic headache symptoms:
· Head pain that is steady and does not throb
· One sided pain on the head or face
· Pain when coughing, sneezing, or taking a deep breath
· Stiffness – reduction in the range of movement in the neck in one or more directions
· Bouts of Pain “attacks” which last for hours or days
· Location of pain either a spot, patch, or region in the back, front or side of the head or eye
Can match the symptoms of a Migraine even though they are not the same:
· Nausea and/or vomiting
· Feeling sick to the stomach
· Sensitivity to bright light or loud noises
· Arm pain, shoulder pain
· Dizziness or ringing in your ear (tinnitus)
What can make figuring it out more difficult is that Migraine and Cervicogenic Headache can occur at the same time! Ouch!
How can we help? Diagnosis!
Figuring out the location of your pain and the cause first, then creating an action plan and treating it!
Non-surgical Treatment is the First Intervention
· Manual therapy, stretches, custom exercises tailored to your specific pain and region, joint movement or mobilisation, healthy spinal movements, and releases to the tightness.
· Dry Needling (medically directed sterile and safe needling, without medication focused on releasing muscle tension).
· Interferential or TENs, heat therapy, cryotherapy (cold)
· Lifestyle changes or advice
· Relaxation, meditation, stress reduction
· Ergonomics – optimisation of your work environment
Don’t hesitate to contact us with any queries at all.
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