Headache Physio

Headache Physio

By Aaron Woolley, Physiotherapist.

Robina Physio are expert physiotherapists that have specialised training in the assessment and treatment of severe and chronic headaches on the Gold Coast. If you are struggling with persistent headaches or migraines please read on for some helpful information or BOOK NOW to visit some of the best headache Physio ’s the Gold Coast has to offer.

Headaches rank among the most widespread disorders affecting the nervous system. Their prevalence is so significant that it is estimated over half of the adult population will experience a headache at some point in their lives. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these numbers likely underestimate the true extent of the problem. Headache disorders have been consistently undervalued, inadequately recognised, and insufficiently treated on a global scale.

A headache can present in many different ways including, a constant aching or throbbing pain in various regions of the head, behind the eyes and/or the jaw. In some more severe cases (e.g. migraine or cluster headaches) blurred vision, dizziness, feeling faint and aura may be present.

Although headaches, particularly tension-type headaches, pose a significant burden on society worldwide, their underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood and warrant further investigation. Fortunately, one area of certainty is the efficacy of physiotherapy treatment for individuals dealing with chronic headaches or migraines. Extensive research has demonstrated that headache physiotherapy can surpass the effectiveness of medication, providing a highly beneficial therapeutic option for those afflicted by these conditions.

 Headaches are classified as a Primary (migraine, tension, trigeminal), Secondary (attributed to trauma, vascular or infection) or Painful Cranial Neuropathies (lesions of cranial nerves). There are many mechanisms that can cause headaches and migraines including blood flow, hormones, brain neurotransmitters, sinuses and medications. Although most importantly it has been shown that up to 80% of all headaches originate from the neck.

Of all the types, Tension-type headaches are the most common. These headaches are often described as a severe pressure and/or tightness around the head, often spreading into or from the neck. These headaches are predominantly caused from stiff joints in the upper cervical region as well as tight muscles around the neck and shoulders. Another structure that can cause tension-type headaches is the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). When people have chronic tightness in their jaw muscles (related to clenching or grinding) it often refers pain and tension into the head producing tension like symptoms.

At Robina Physio on the Gold Coast, our skilled physiotherapists employ a diverse range of treatment modalities to address chronic and severe headaches effectively. These modalities encompass massage, trigger point release, gentle joint mobilisations of the upper cervical spine, dry needling/acupuncture, as well as providing postural advice and personalised exercise routines, incorporating both stretching and strengthening exercises. We firmly believe in tailoring our approach to each individual’s unique needs, steering away from the one-size-fits-all approach commonly seen in other practices. When you visit Robina Physio, you can expect a thorough and individualised assessment, followed by a hands-on treatment plan designed to align perfectly with your personal treatment objectives.

Please don’t hesitate to Contact us on (07) 5578 7233 or BOOK ONLINE.