Headache and Neck-Related Headache Physiotherapy
Some headaches are linked to neck joints and muscles, and movement, posture and strengthening work may help. A physiotherapist can assess whether your neck is part of the picture. InHealth Physiotherapy in Etobicoke offers assessment for neck-related headaches.
What are neck-related headaches?
Neck-related, or cervicogenic, headaches are felt in the head but come from the joints, muscles or nerves of the upper neck. They often start at the base of the skull and may spread to the forehead or behind an eye. They can follow desk work, a whiplash injury or long periods in one position. Tension-type headaches can also involve tight neck and shoulder muscles.
Signs your neck may be involved
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Headache that starts at the back of the head or the neck
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Pain that changes with neck movement or a held posture
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Neck stiffness or reduced turning
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Tight, tender muscles at the base of the skull and shoulders
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Headaches after a whiplash injury or long hours at a screen
What physiotherapy may include
Our team will check your neck movement, posture, muscle strength and the way your upper back and shoulders work. Care may include:
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Education about triggers such as posture, screens and sleep
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Neck and shoulder strengthening and mobility exercises
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Desk and workstation advice
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A home plan you can follow
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When to seek urgent medical care
Call 911 or go to emergency for a sudden, severe headache that feels like the worst of your life, or a headache with fever and stiff neck, confusion, fainting, weakness, face drooping, trouble speaking, vision loss or a seizure. Seek care too for a new headache after a blow to the head, or a new pattern of headaches if you are over 50. See your doctor if headaches are frequent, getting worse, or wake you from sleep.
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