Are your headaches and migraines coming from your neck?
Have you ever wondered how intricately connected our body systems are? It's fascinating to think that something as seemingly unrelated as your neck could be the culprit behind your persistent headaches and migraines. Yes, you heard that right — your neck! So, before you blame your poor head for everything, let's explore the possibility that the origin of your discomfort might be hiding just a little lower down.
You may be experiencing throbbing headaches or debilitating migraines, often focusing on the temples or forehead. It's frustrating when medication only provides temporary relief, leaving you searching for a more sustainable solution. The truth is, the area where you feel the pain may not be the actual source. In fact, it's surprisingly common for headaches and migraines to originate from the neck — a condition known as cervicogenic headaches.
Now, don't let the term "cervicogenic" intimidate you. In simple terms, it refers to headaches that stem from issues in the neck region. The intricate network of muscles, joints, and nerves in your neck can contribute to these headaches when they become tense, inflamed, or overly active. Understanding this connection between your neck and your head can be the key to finding lasting relief.
With this article, we hope to equip you with a simple 3-step self-assessment, empowering you to take control of your own well-being!
Step 1: Neck Range of Motion (A.K.A. MOVE IT!)
Start by standing or sitting in a comfortable position. Take your neck through it's full range of motion from side to side, up and down and lastly, bringing each ear to your shoulder. Pay attention to any restrictions or discomfort. Can you move your head smoothly, or, do you feel stiffness or pain? Do you feel any increase in tension within your forehead or behind your eyes?
Step 2: Palpation and Tenderness Testing (A.K.A. TOUCH IT!)
Using your fingertips, gently press and feel along the muscles and bony structures in your neck. Pay attention to any areas that feel tender or sensitive to touch. These tender spots may indicate muscle tension or irritation in your neck that could contribute to your headaches or migraines.
Step 3: Observational Awareness of Temporal Signs (A.K.A. TIME IT!)
Pay close attention to the relationship between the onset of your neck pain and the occurrence of your headaches or migraines. If you notice a consistent pattern where the headaches or migraines occur within the same time frame as, or even before or after, the presence of neck pain, there's a good chance that your neck is contributing to your symptoms.
Pro tip: By keeping a headache diary and tracking the timing and duration of both your neck pain and headaches or migraines, you can gather important information that can help identify the underlying connection.
*Remember, these methods are not meant to replace professional evaluation but can serve as valuable indicators for further investigation.*
If the expert detective in you found any positive findings in your self-assessment, first of all solid work, but more importantly, it's time to take actionable steps to recovery!
There Is Hope With (THE RIGHT) Physical Therapy!
By combining interventions like manual therapy, dry needling, therapeutic exercise, and ergonomic education, physical therapists can provide comprehensive care tailored to each individual's needs. These interventions aim to alleviate pain, improve neck function, and enhance quality of life.
If you're experiencing chronic headaches or migraines, consider consulting with a physical therapist who can assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Through their expertise and the use of evidence-based interventions, physical therapists can help you find relief and manage your symptoms effectively for long-term relief.
Now take the necessary steps to determine if your neck is contributing to your symptoms, and consider incorporating physical therapy into your treatment plan. With the right treatment and guidance you can regain control from stubborn headaches and migraines!