Headaches: The Role of Physical Therapy

Headaches Neck Physical Therapy
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Written By Dr. Deb Dunn
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist

Are headaches making your days difficult? You’re not alone. Nearly half of the global population suffers from headaches, and a specific type called cervicogenic headaches (CGHs) is a major cause of chronic pain. These headaches often come from issues in the neck, caused by things like whiplash injuries, desk jobs, and stress. CGHs can be stubborn and affect many adults, especially women.

Cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches, which means the pain starts in the neck but is felt in the head or face. These headaches can vary in location and severity, often affecting areas like the back of the head or forehead. They may also bring dizziness, nausea, and vision problems.

Experts believe CGHs are caused by problems in the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the neck. Poor posture or injuries can make movement in the neck difficult and painful, leading to headaches.

At Trailblaze PT & Performance in Hendersonville, NC, we offer physical therapy as an effective way to treat these headaches without the need for invasive procedures. Studies show that physical therapy treatments, like neck exercises, gentle joint movements, and other hands-on techniques, can greatly reduce headache pain and frequency.

Some studies have found that combining exercises with hands-on techniques, like joint mobilization, can provide even better results. Physical therapy helps by addressing the root causes of the pain in the neck, allowing people to manage their headaches better and improve their overall well-being.

If headaches are interfering with your life, Trailblaze PT & Performance in Hendersonville, NC, is here to help. Our physical therapists can create a personalized plan to reduce your headaches and help you feel better. Explore how physical therapy can offer relief and get you back to doing the things you love.