Headaches are often caused by disorders of the neck or physical and emotional tension. Physiotherapists can successfully treat headaches originating from the Neck and show you how to prevent the headache from re-occurring.

Is Your Headache Actually a Neck Ache?

Headaches often start as a pain or tension at the top of the neck. As the pain persists, it will spread to the forehead, temples and behind the eyes. This happens because the nerves in the upper part of your neck are connected to the nerves in your head and face. These points may suggest that your neck is causing you the headache:

• Does the pain radiate from the back to the front of your head?
• Does your headache give you dizziness or light-headedness
• Do you stay in the same position for a long time?
• Does the headache feel worse on the same side of your head every time?

Prevention?

• Posture – Think tall and chest lifted. Your neck should feel strong and straight.
• Work – Avoid working in uncomfortable neck positions for long periods. If unavoidable, you need to regularly stretch and change position.
• Sleeping – Awkward sleeping positions will add load and strain to the neck. See your physiotherapist for a pillow that will suit you.
• Exercise – Flexibility in the neck joints is important. Your physiotherapist can help you with exercises.
• Relaxation – Recognize when you are tense. You may be hunching without realizing it.

How the Physiotherapist Can Help?

Physiotherapists are trained in posture and human movement. Your physiotherapist will be able to effectively identify your headache and treat the problem along with offering advice on prevention techniques suitable for you as an individual.