How to Relieve Chronic Headaches
Chronic headaches can be a frustrating and debilitating condition for many individuals, impacting their quality of life and daily functioning. Although pain relievers and other medications can provide temporary relief, they don't address the root cause of the headaches. In many cases, physical therapy can provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing headache pain and preventing its recurrence. In this article, we'll explore how physical therapy can help alleviate some of the most common types of headaches. We'll also discuss how to recognize the symptoms of chronic headaches and when to consider physical therapy as a treatment option.
Types of Chronic Headaches
There are several types of chronic headaches, each with their own unique symptoms and causes. Some common types of headaches include:
1. Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, accounting for up to 90% of all headaches. They are characterized by a dull, achy pain that typically starts at the base of the skull and radiates to the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes. Tension headaches are often triggered by stress, poor posture, and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, though the exact cause is relatively unknown.
2. Cervicogenic Headaches
This is often referred to as neck pain with headaches. These are headaches that are caused by dysfunctions in the muscles and joints in the neck. Most of the time, the dysfunction is coming from the upper part of the person’s neck. People will usually, but not always, complain of neck pain along with their headaches, and they may also experience TMJ pain or a feeling of fullness in their ear.
3. Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are a type of headache that occur in cycles, with periods of intense pain followed by periods of remission. They are characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain that is usually localized to one side of the head, typically around the eye. Cluster headaches are relatively rare, affecting less than 1% of the population.
4. Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches are a type of headache that occur when the sinuses become inflamed or infected. They are typically characterized by a deep, constant pain in the forehead, cheeks, and bridge of the nose, and are often accompanied by nasal congestion and a fever.
5. Migraines
Migraines are a type of headache that is typically characterized by a throbbing pain on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines are believed to be caused by changes in brain chemistry, and they often have triggers such as certain foods, hormonal changes, and stress.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Chronic Headaches
If you experience headaches frequently, it's important to recognize the symptoms of chronic headaches so that you can seek appropriate treatment. Some common symptoms of chronic headaches include:
- Headaches that occur more than 15 days per month
- Headaches that last for more than 4 hours
- Headaches that interfere with daily activities
- Headaches that are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light or sound
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your headaches and to explore treatment options.
Physical Therapy for Chronic Headaches
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for many types of chronic headaches, particularly those caused by muscle tension, poor posture, or joint dysfunction. Here are some of the ways that physical therapy can help alleviate headache pain:
1. Manual Therapy
Manual therapy techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation can help to reduce muscle tension and improve joint mobility, both of which can contribute to chronic headaches. These techniques are typically performed by a trained physical therapist and can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
2. Exercise
Specific exercises can help to strengthen and/or stretch the muscles of the neck and upper back, which can improve posture and reduce muscle tension. Physical therapists can create a customized exercise program that targets the specific areas that are causing headaches.
3. Education
Physical therapists can educate patients on proper posture and body mechanics, as well as strategies to reduce stress and tension. Patients can also learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation to help manage stress and reduce headache pain.
4. Trigger Point Release
Trigger points are tight, tender areas in muscles that can contribute to headache pain. Physical therapists can use techniques such as dry needling or trigger point release to relieve these areas of tension.
At Home Management of Chronic Headaches
Certain types of headaches can respond well to at-home treatments. Headaches that stem from muscle or joint dysfunctions will often be alleviated through stretching and movements. Here are some stretches for headache relief that you can try:
1. Upper trapezius Stretch: Tilt your head to one side, bringing your ear to your shoulder. Hold for 10 seconds, then repeat on the other side. You should feel a gentle stretch on the side you are bending away from.
2. Shoulder Shrugs: Shrug your shoulders up towards your ears, hold for 3 seconds, then fully relax downward. Repeat 10 times.
3. Chest Stretches: Stand in a doorway and place your hands and lower arms on the door frame at face level on each side of you. Gently lean your body forward until a stretch is felt across your chest. Hold for 10 seconds, then release.
4. Massage: Use your fingertips to gently massage your scalp, moving in circular motions. You can also apply deep pressure to the muscles in the back of your neck, just below the base of your skull holding 20-30 seconds.
When to Consider Physical Therapy for Chronic Headaches
If you have chronic headaches that are not responding to pain medications or other treatments, physical therapy may be a good option to consider. During your initial physical therapy consultation, your therapist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify the underlying cause of your headaches. They will then develop a customized treatment plan that may include manual therapy, exercise, education, trigger point release, and lifestyle modification.
Chronic headaches can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for many individuals. If you suffer from headaches and are tired of relying on medication to get through your day, don't hesitate to contact us at Adherence Therapy and Wellness. Our experienced physical therapist can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your headaches and provides lasting relief. Whether it's through manual therapy, dry needling, or other techniques, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a life free from headache pain.