Did you know June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month? If you suffer from frequent migraines or headaches, consider consulting with a physical therapist.
Headache pain is the third most common pain complaint worldwide. Both headaches and migraines can be caused by a variety of conditions including but not limited to sinus problems, vascular complications, or tumors. However, a large majority are caused by muscular and joint issues, such as muscle tension and tightness, disc pathology, lack of neck motion, poor posture, or tightness in the back between the shoulder blades.
So how can physical therapy help those suffering from headaches or migraines? …And is it actually effective?
First off, a licensed physical therapist will assess the patient to determine the type of headache: tension, migraine, or secondary pain stemming from an underlying condition. This will allow them to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. Second, dependent upon the type the pain, the physical therapist can manually address the issue using a number of techniques: heat or ice, soft tissue mobilization/massage, cervical traction, stretching, strengthening exercises, dry needling, and/or posture education. This will allow them to alleviate a headache or migraine quickly and effectively. From there, the physical therapist may be able to provide the patient with specific, custom exercises to address any future flare-ups on their own. In some cases, a physical therapist can address and relieve headache and migraine pain as quickly as one visit, but results may vary based on the severity of each individual case.
If you suffer from headaches or migraines, give Elite Integrated Therapy Centers a call! With 7 offices across the Upstate, our licensed physical therapists are available to see you within 24-48 hours, no referral required. We are here to address any aches or pains, from your head to your toes!
