Headaches are a common type of pain affecting the head, face, or neck, often described as a pressure that’s throbbing, constant, sharp or dull. Headaches can differ greatly in regard to pain type, severity, location and frequency. They can be caused by various factors, including stress, muscle tension, and even underlying medical conditions. They can also be impacted by lack of sleep, an incorrect eyeglass prescription, stress, loud noise exposure, or tight headwear. There are several types of headaches, including tension headaches, cluster, and sinus headaches, each with its own distinct symptoms and potential triggers.

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Migraines, but not all, may be preceded by an aura/visual disturbances that may or may not develop into a headache that is one sided. Other associated symptoms may include light and sound sensitivity, nausea and or vomiting. For a smaller percentage of sufferers they may also find their balance, speech, control of movement and sensation can also be affected. Aura symptoms may last up to an hour prior to the onset of headache. The headache symptoms may last typically from 4 hours to 24 and are usually followed by what is often referred to as a migraine ‘hangover’ where mood, cognition and energy levels can all be affected.

 

In both cases the primary goal of physical therapy is to relieve pain and improve a patient's quality of life.
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Most Common Conditions:

• blurred vision

• dizziness

• eye pain

• face pain

• fatigue

• head pain

• light sensitivity (phonophobia)

• nausea

• neck pain

• sound sensitivity (photophobia)

• vision changes (like flashes or blind spots)

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Treatment Options:

• over-the-counter pain relievers

• cold compress to the head or neck 

• rest and relaxation, including quiet, dark rooms

• staying hydrated and consuming a balanced diet

• stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing 

• treating the underlying medical condition/cause

• Botox injections

• physical therapy, cranial sacral massage, and acupuncture