Dealing With Headaches & Migraines?
Watch this video to learn how headache pain forms.
Headache Pain Is Very Common
Headaches are extremely unpleasant and impact over half of the population.
Cervicogenic headaches are caused by abnormalities in the neck and affect a large percentage of patients who suffer from headaches. The most common cause of a cervicogenic headache is restricted movement of the upper cervical spine's joints. Each joint in your neck normally moves freely and independently.
There may be constraints in the upper cervical spine that cause a painful cycle of stiffness, muscular tightness, and joint inflammation in some people. The nerves that run from your neck to the back of your head may become irritated and sensitive as a result of this.
Do you have one of these headaches?
Many people may not know this, but there are actually different types of headaches that all develop from different causes. The three main types of headaches include:
Tension headaches
The most common form of headaches is known as tension headaches. These can occur due to repetitive motions or poor posture in the neck/head. Tension headaches are caused by a strain on the “dura mater,” which is a sensitive membrane that envelops the brain. The dura mater lies in close proximity to small muscles at the base of the skull that goes into spasm when the dura mater becomes strained, thus sending pain signals to the brain and causing your headache.
Musculoskeletal headaches
Musculoskeletal headaches occur when there are significant amounts of tension in the neck. This is typically a result of physical imbalances, weaknesses, or damage, although emotional tension (such as stress) can also be a contributing factor. A traumatic injury to the neck, such as whiplash, is a common cause of musculoskeletal headaches. With neck injuries such as whiplash, the muscles and connective tissues in the neck can become torn or strained. This can lead to agonizing pain felt in the head, as well as in the face, shoulders, or neck.
Cervicogenic headaches
Cervicogenic headaches are related to neck pain, involving the top three vertebrae of the neck. These headaches can develop as a result of certain conditions, such as a concussion or arthritis, but work-related strain can also trigger a cervicogenic headache. Professions that require a down-turned motion of the head or neck are the most prone to developing cervicogenic headaches. This may include hairdressers, long-haul drivers, chefs, nail artists, jewelers, etc.
How will I benefit from physiotherapy and chiropractic?
If you are suffering from headaches, contact our Toronto Physiotherapy office today. At Heal Physiotherapy & Chiropractic North York, we are dedicated to providing you with the best treatments for your headaches.
At your initial appointment, one of our Ontario, highly trained physiotherapists and chiropractorsors will conduct a physical evaluation and ask you questions about your health history and symptoms, in order to determine what type of headache you are experiencing and where the pain is stemming from.
A treatment plan will then be designed specifically for you and your recovery.
Ready to find relief?
To book your appointment, contact us today to speak to one of our Toronto physiotherapists and chiropractors.
At Heal Physiotherapy & Chiropractic North York, our treatments for headaches focus on relieving pain, improving posture, and strengthening muscles in the neck and upper back.
These will all help in making your daily life much more comfortable and bearable – without the pain of headaches!
