Headache

Headaches are often caused by disorders of the neck or physical and emotional tension. Physiotherapists can successfully treat most headaches and show you how to prevent the pain recurring.

Is Your Headache Really a Neck Ache?

For many people, feelings of pain and tension start at the top of the neck. As the pain worsens, it may spread to the back of the head, the temples, forehead or behind the eyes. Moving the neck or bending forward for a long time tends to make it worse. This happens because the nerves in the upper part of your neck are connected to the nerves in your head and face. A disorder of the upper neck joints or muscles can cause referred pain to your head.

Headache can be caused by a tense posture. You may be hunching your shoulders without realising it.

Any of the following points suggest that your neck may be causing the headache:

Headache associated with neck pain. Does the pain radiate from the back to the front of your head? Headache with dizziness or light-headedness. Headache brought on or worsened by neck movement or staying in the same position for a long time. Headache which always feels worse on the same side of your head. Headache eased by pressure to the base of the skull. Headache which persists after your doctor has checked for other causes.

A disorder of the upper neck muscles or joints can cause referred pain to your head

Headaches from Other Causes

Emotional tension and anxiety can cause the muscles at the base of the head and jaw to become very tight, irritating the nerves and restricting blood flow. This produces a headache.

If migraine, allergic reactions or other causes are suspected, your physiotherapist will recommend that you see a medical practitioner.

Preventing Headaches

Here is some useful advice to help you prevent headaches:

Posture

Think tall: chest lifted, shoulders relaxed, chin tucked in and head level. Your neck should feel strong, straight and relaxed.

Work

Avoid working with your head down for long periods.

Stretch and change position frequently.

Sleeping

A down pillow or urethane moulded pillow is best for most people. Talk to your physiotherapist.

Exercise

Keep your neck joints and muscles flexible and strong with correct neck exercises. Your physiotherapist can show you how.

Relaxation

Recognise when you are tense. You may be hunching your shoulders or clenching your teeth without realising it.

How Physiotherapists Can Help

Physiotherapists are experts in posture and human movement. They will be able to determine if your neck is causing the headaches. Physiotherapists may use: Mobilisation Manipulation Massage Remedial exercise Postural assessment, correction and advice Relaxation therapy Laser, ultrasound, electrotherapy and heat treatment

Physiotherapists use a range of techniques to treat neck headaches.

Your physiotherapist can also offer you self-help advice on ways to correct the cause of headaches, such as practical tips for work and in the home, adjusting furniture, relaxation and exercise.

Manipulation can be an effective treatment for headache caused by neck problems. In some situations, it may do more harm than good. Your physiotherapist will carefully check your neck before manipulating it to see if other methods, such as mobilisation would be preferable.