Physical therapy may not be the first thing that comes to mind when dealing with a headache. Most people tend to reach for pain-relieving medication for immediate relief. However, if you are frequently experiencing migraines, relying solely on pain relief drugs won't provide you with the long-term effects that physical therapy can offer.

A significant number of headaches, known as cervicogenic headaches, are connected to the neck in some way. Factors like poor posture and stress can lead to weakness, strain, and injury in the neck muscles and joints. This pain can extend to the scalp, side of the head, and even the forehead, depending on which area of the neck is affected.

If you're located in Plano, TX and suffer from headaches, know that you're not alone. Around 80-90% of people in the U.S. experience occasional or frequent tension headaches, which are also the third most reported source of pain worldwide. Fit to Move Physical Therapy and Wellness is here to help treat all types of headaches, whether they are acute and temporary or constant and chronic, such as migraines. Request your appointment today and start your journey towards relief!

Would you like to discover how physical therapy can aid in relieving headaches?

During your initial visit to Fit to Move Physical Therapy and Wellness, our highly trained team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, delving into your health history and symptoms to identify the type and origin of your headaches. Based on this assessment, a personalized treatment plan will be crafted to target your specific needs and facilitate your recovery.

Are you curious about the type of headache you're currently experiencing? Let's delve into it together and find out!

Musculoskeletal headaches occur when there is excessive tension in the neck. This is commonly caused by physical imbalances, weaknesses, or injuries. Emotional tension, such as stress, can also be a contributing factor. An example of a common cause is a traumatic injury like whiplash, which can tear or strain the muscles and connective tissues in the neck. As a result, this can lead to excruciating pain in the head, face, shoulders, or neck.

Cervicogenic headaches are commonly associated with neck pain, specifically involving the top three vertebrae of the neck. While these headaches can arise from various conditions like concussion or arthritis, it's worth noting that work-related strain can also be a trigger for cervicogenic headaches. Professions that involve frequent downward motion of the head or neck, such as hairdressers, long-haul drivers, chefs, nail artists, jewelers, and more, are particularly susceptible to experiencing these types of headaches. Understanding the potential causes and risk factors can help individuals in these professions better manage and prevent cervicogenic headaches.

Tension headaches are one of the most prevalent types of headaches. These can be triggered by repetitive motions or poor posture in the neck and head. The root cause of tension headaches is strain on the "dura mater," a sensitive membrane that envelops the brain. This strain can lead to muscle spasms in the small muscles located at the base of the skull. As a result, these spasms send pain signals to the brain, causing your headache.

How can you start relieving your headaches?

At Fit to Move Physical Therapy and Wellness, our headache treatments focus on alleviating pain, improving posture, and strengthening the muscles in the neck and upper back. These solutions will significantly enhance your daily comfort and help you bear life without headaches. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment today with one of our dedicated physical therapists in Plano, TX.