Almost every one experiences one form of headache from time to time, most simply take a painkiller for quick relief.
But what if your headaches are persistent and almost daily occurrences – how do you manage then?
Download April 2012 Newsletter here: Headaches
The most common types of headaches are:
Tension headaches are often stress-related and occur as a result of excessive muscle tension in the shoulders, neck or facial muscles.
Eyestrain headaches are most commonly associated with tightness and pain referred from the base of the skull to the eye and temple areas. These headaches often occur due to poor sitting posture and long hours looking at a computer screen.
Sinus congestion is common to allergy sufferers, colds and virus infections. Sinus congestion creates an increase in internal pressure across the face leading to headaches
Jaw Tension headaches. With so many neck muscles attached to the jaw and its close proximity to upper neck joints, it is not surprising that teeth grinding, jaw clenching and temporomadibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can cause headaches.
Some of the physio treatment techniques that may be used are:
• Mobilisation of stiff joints
• Soft tissue release of tight muscles
• Stretching exercises
• Strengthening for weak muscles
• Heat treatment
• Acupuncture or dry needling
• Relaxation methods to help with stress management
Your Physiotherapist will also provide postural and ergonomic advice if this is outlined to be a contributing factor. Discussion of correct pillow and workstation setup may also be provided as well as other preventative measures.
Headaches do not have to be something that you live with on a day to day basis, so consult your physiotherapist to discuss how you can prevent these from occurring.
TIP OF THE MONTH
Tend your thoughts well. Think happy thoughts. Have an attitude of gratitude. When something goes wrong, think about what you can learn from the experience.
TOWARDS WELLNESS
Put limits on work hours. You can’t work all the time-fun and relaxation have to be part of your routine as well. Limit the times when you will work to give yourself time to sleep and rest up so you won’t get sick.
