Migraine & Headache
Migraine is among the top 10 leading causes of years lived with a disability worldwide. Many individuals with migraine also suffer neck pain, which increases the burden of headache. Headaches are so incredibly common and as a result many of us think they are a normal part of life. On the contrary, recurring headaches are a warning that something is wrong.
Types of Headache
There a many different types and causes for headache, but tension headaches and migraines are the most commonly seen forms of headache.
Causes of Headaches & Migraine
Headaches can be triggered by a range of factors, including stress, poor posture, accidents, medications, or environmental factors such as strong odours & pollution, and dietary irregularities.
Certainly one of the most overlooked factors that cause migraine and tension headache is referral from the upper neck due to improperly functioning spinal joints – Vertebral dysfunction. Since the nerves of the upper neck serve sections of the scalp and face, irritation to these nerves may bring on headaches.
Assessment
Your physiotherapist will rigorously assess likely headache triggers and conduct a detailed history, orthopaedic, neurological and spinal assessment to identify the source of your headache. Further diagnostic testing such as x-ray or MRI may also be called for. Upon the identification of a specific diagnosis, your treatment plan can get started.