Help Managing Headaches and Migraines
What Causes a Headache or a Migraine?
Headaches or migraines may have several different causes. In figuring out a treatment plan, it is important to identify the cause of the pain, and whether it is a headache or a migraine.
80-90 percent of people suffer from Tension headaches at least one time in their life
What Causes a Headache or a Migraine?
Typically, most headaches fall into three main categories and include some of the following symptoms:
Migraine
- of moderate or severe intensity
- one-sided
- pulsating in quality
- aggravated by routine physical activity
- with duration of hours to 2-3 days
- nausea (the most characteristic associated feature);
Tension Headache
Neck Related
Headache
Medication Related Headaches
Treatment for Migraines or Headaches
According to the World Health Organization, headaches have been underestimated, under-recognized and under-treated throughout the world. Our physiotherapists are trained in assessing many different neurological issues, including the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of headaches and migraines.
Physio Treatments For a Migraine or Tension Headaches
Headaches and migraines may be caused by an underlying issue, such as a neck disc herniation, vascular problem or muscle tension. Therefore, a proper diagnosis is extremely important in order to figure out how we can manage your condition and propose an appropriate action plan.
When to Seek Help for Migraines and Headaches
Anytime you have a sudden change in your health, or experience symptoms affecting the quality of your life or well-being, you should consult a professional.
Very often one symptom may appear that can be related to other underlying issues. One of the specialties of physiotherapists is to consult and gain an understanding of the issues, and help you come up with solutions to your pain. Many people successfully fight headache and migraine pain with the help of specialized assessments provided by our physiotherapy consultations and private sessions.
Warning Signs of a Dangerous Headache or a Migraine
We urge you to consult a physiotherapist or your doctor immediately for any of the following symptoms:
- Abnormal or new type of headache to ones you normally experience
- “Thunderclap” type headache.
- Memory loss, motor weakness or other neurological complications.
- New type of headache first occuring when you’re over 50
- Headache associated with a systemic issue, such as a fever or weight loss.