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Headaches & Migraines

Headaches and migraines are a few of the most common complaints we see in the clinic, ranging from occasional tension headaches to debilitating episodes that interfere with daily life. Headaches describe pain or discomfort anywhere in the head, face or neck. Whereas a migraine is a condition that often involves moderate-to-severe headaches, along with symptoms like nausea or light sensitivity. While both can arise from many causes, a lot is linked to the muscles, joints, and nerves of the neck and upper back. Physiotherapy plays an important role in assessing these underlying causes for headaches and addressing them to help improve symptoms.

About this condition

There are many different causes for headaches, including neck dysfunction, muscle tension, stress, poor posture, and migraines. Current research shows up to 70% of all headache sufferers report neck pain with neck pain also being the most common trigger for headaches (44% of headaches) (Peris et al., 2016) Here are common types of headache conditions you may see and their causes:

Cervicogenic headaches – headaches are usually felt on one side of the head. It presents with neck pain and is aggravated by certain neck movements or posture. This pain stems from the joints, muscles, or nerves of the neck, with pain referred up into the head.
Tension-type headaches (most common) – a headache that wraps around the forehead like a tight band, commonly associated with tension in the neck and shoulder muscles that is often brought on by stress or prolonged poor posture.
Migraines – headaches are usually felt on one side of the head (which side can change). It may be triggered by a variety of factors including stress, sleep disturbances, dehydration, hormonal changes, or certain environmental triggers.

A thorough assessment can help determine the type of headache you are experiencing and whether physiotherapy is an appropriate part of your treatment.

What you may be feeling

Frequent headaches that interfere with day-to-day activities.
A dull, painful discomfort in the back of the head, behind the eyes, in the temples, around the forehead.
Stiffness or pain in the neck that comes with the headache
Tightness or tenderness in the neck, shoulders, or back.
Headaches that are aggravated by prolonged sitting, certain neck movements or certain positions.
Throbbing or pulsating sensations in the head
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells (commonly associated with migraines).
Nausea, dizziness, or visual disturbances.
Inability to focus or complete daily duties.

How we can help you

Comprehensive Assessment

We identify the contributing factors for your headaches, whether it be related to the neck, muscle tension, posture, or other musculoskeletal factors and determine whether physiotherapy is appropriate.

Manual Therapy

Hands on techniques such as joint mobilisations and soft tissue massage to help improve neck mobility, reduce muscle tension, and relieve headache symptoms.

Exercise Therapy

Targeted exercises to improve neck strength/endurance, posture, and movement control to help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

Education on Triggers and Management

Advice on identifying potential headache triggers and activity modification along with strategies to help manage or minimise flare-ups.

Postural & Ergonomic Advice

Education on workstation setup, posture, and movement habits to minimise unnecessary neck and shoulder strain that can contribute to headaches.

So, what's next?

Being faced with an injury or being told by a health practitioner to undergo a particular treatment can be quite daunting. That’s why we are here to help you. You can book a 15-minute video consult to ask your trusted health practitioners any questions you may have on your mind. No judgement, no strings attached and most importantly, no fees!