Should I have physical therapy for my headaches? 

If you’ve experienced a painful headache or migraine at some point in your life, then you are aware of how debilitating this can be. Even mild and moderate headaches can significantly limit function. When these headaches become frequent and persistent, it can really impact your life. So how do you know if physical therapy is something that can help with your headaches? 

First of all, it helps to classify the different types of headaches to determine the cause. The two main classifications are Musculoskeletal Headaches and Non-Musculoskeletal Headaches. Both of these categories can be divided even further into subcategories. Musculoskeletal Headaches can include tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches. Basically, the tension headaches are caused by muscle spasms in the head, neck or face. They generally feel tight or throbbing, but don’t completely prevent normal daily function. Cervicogenic headaches are caused by joint dysfunction in the cervical spine which can cause nerve irritation. These headaches are generally more moderate to severe lasting longer than two hours and are made worse by neck movements and poor posture.  

Non-Musculoskeletal Headaches

Non-Musculoskeletal Headaches can have various causes, but generally fall into 3 categories with the exception of illness or medical emergency head pain such as flu, stroke, or aneurism. Migraines are not just severe headaches. They are classified by having at least one of the following: Nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, or sound sensitivity. They must also have at least two of the following: Present on one side, pulsating, moderate to severe intensity, and causes the person to avoid their normal daily activities. They also last from 4-72 hours. Migraines may be caused by vascular reasons, but they will often have warning signs that can include musculoskeletal headaches that can trigger them. 

Cluster Headaches

Cluster Headaches often occur at night with sharp pain in the back of the eye. They can last from 15 minutes to 3 hours and are often associated with sinus symptoms. These are more common in men and sufferers will often avoid laying down with this type of headache. Secondary headaches can have a variety of causes including dehydration, caffeine withdrawal, and medication changes. 

At Pacific Physical Therapy, we typically treat musculoskeletal headaches, but these treatments can often be beneficial for migraine sufferers who have a tension headache trigger. Initial treatment will typically focus on improved joint mobility and reduced muscle spasms. The key to lasting relief, however is to address the underlying reason for the restrictions. Postural stabilization exercises and activity modification are two methods for reducing symptoms long term. So, if you are ready to say goodbye to your headaches, or if you want to know more about if physical therapy is right for you, talk to your doctor and schedule an appointment. 

If you are experiencing headaches and need an evaluation, our clinics in Port Orchard and Silverdale do an injury screen to help you know what is the best way to address your injury.

Click here to request an appointment and one of our staff will reach out to you. 

Or give us a call at 360-329-7052 to reach our Port Orchard Office or 360-625-9161 to reach our Silverdale Office, both located in Kitsap County

Alicia Gilfoy PT, MPT is a physical therapist who has been treating in the outpatient orthopedic setting since 2007.