Headaches / Migraines

Headaches / Migraines We Treat

  • Tension Headaches

  • Ocular Migraines

  • Vestibular Migraines

  • Hemiplegic Migraines

  • Cluster Migraines

Physical therapy can be an effective treatment approach for headaches and migraines, particularly those associated with musculoskeletal issues including cervical tension, TMJD, and postural related issues.

Headaches and migraines are not the same thing.

  • Headaches are usually associated with tension built up from the neck and jaw and may be associated with postural issues. They may also arise from sinus related issues and congestion. They generally create generalized ache pain that comes on all over the head.

  • Migraines are believed to involve abnormal brain activity and neuro-chemical imbalances, which lead to changes in blood flow. Migraines usually come on with nausea, light and noise sensitivity, overstimulation, and can cause dizziness. The pain is usually unilateral an only occurs on one side of the head.

Treatment Options

  • Physical therapists may use manual therapy techniques to address muscle tension, joint dysfunction, and soft tissue restrictions in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can contribute to headache symptoms.

  • Poor posture, especially related to forward head/rounded shoulders, can contribute to tension headaches and migraines. These postures are common in individuals that work at a desk and have to sit from prolonged periods of time. Physical therapists can provide education on proper posture and ergonomics, as well as exercises to strengthen the scapular and cervical stabilizers to promote neutral spine alignment and proper sitting/ standing posture.

  • Gentle stretching exercises targeting the neck, shoulders, and upper back can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate headache / migraines symptoms as soon as your first symptoms are felt.

  • Neubie may be a beneficial tool in your rehabilitation plan. Neubie can help strengthen your postural stabilizers, improve your ROM and functional mobility through the cervical spine, relax your muscles, and decrease your pain.

  • Physical therapists can provide education on headache triggers, lifestyle modifications, and self-management strategies to help individuals reduce the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines.

“Grit is the grain of character.”
— Edwin Percy Whipple