Those who get headaches and migraines know that they can stop you in your tracks. They range anywhere from dull and annoying, to feeling like your whole head is being squeezed. This article will help you learn how to treat headaches and migraines.
Symptoms
Headaches are considered an “unpleasant sensation” in the head or upper neck area. They may feel sharp, throbbing, or like a dull ache. They can last anywhere from less than an hour up to a few days at a time.
There are different types of headaches. They can be caused by sinus infections, tension, and other illnesses. In fact, many people say they feel pain in their head when the pain actually comes from the tissues that surround the brain.
On the other hand, migraines are a complex disorder that causes headaches. They can disrupt your day and usually present with a combination of the following symptoms:
- Heightened sensitivity to light or sounds
- Vision problems
- Throbbing pain in the head or on one side of the head.
- Stomach issues, including nausea or loss of appetite
Causes
There are many factors that can cause headaches. Fortunately, experiencing a headache doesn’t necessarily mean you have an underlying medical condition. For example, eating certain foods, stress, changes in sleep, poor posture and even tight ponytails can cause headaches.
When it comes to the cause of migraines, there is a lot of gray area. While some can be genetic, the actual cause of most migraines is still unknown. Scientists believe there is a relation between the part of your body responsible for the nerves and blood vessels and migraines.
Treat Headaches And Migraines
To ease headaches, you can make a few simple lifestyle changes. Staying hydrated, having a balanced diet, and avoiding caffeine can help greatly. Additionally, getting plenty of rest, and taking breaks from screens help too.
As with headaches, lifestyle changes can help ease migraines. However, many have found relief by being active. Specifically, combining a stretching and exercise regimen that targets the muscles and surrounding tissue in the head, neck, and shoulders.
For many, it’s more than simply treating migraines as they happen. It’s about working to prevent migraines before they appear, or at the very minimum, reduce the strength, duration, and frequency migraines occur.
Physical therapists can identify what triggers your migraine symptoms and help treat your condition. They will focus on specific postural modifications, correct muscle imbalances, using gentle soft tissue mobilization, and more. Their goal is to empower their patients to self-manage their pain symptoms and improve overall function.
Understanding the difference between migraines and headaches and determining their root causes can make it easier to find the relief you’re searching for. Call our office at (586) 884-4565 to see how physical therapy can treat your migraines so you can get back to enjoying life.
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