Can Physiotherapy East Sheen assist with tension headaches?

Physiotherapy East Sheen assist with tension headaches

Tension headaches can be very debilitating and impact the quality of life. It’s important to get them diagnosed by a professional in order to prevent long-term symptoms. In addition to the pain, reoccurring tension headaches can also lead to fatigue, depression, and anxiety which can contribute to more severe and persistent problems. Thankfully, a physical therapist can help to relieve these aches and pains, allowing the person to experience a better quality of life.

The International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) of 2018 categorizes headache into three types: infrequent episodic tension-type headache, frequent episodic tension-type headache and chronic tension-type headache. A tension headache is characterized by a tight, squeezing band of pressure around the forehead or the temples. It can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few days and often affects both sides of the head. Symptoms can also include nausea and light sensitivity.

There is an enormous cost associated with recurrent tension headaches, both at the individual level and at society-wide levels. These costs are the result of the consumption of medication, societal productivity loss and medical expenses. In addition, it is estimated that these headaches are responsible for over 80% of all lost workdays in Europe.

Luckily, there are natural and drug-free ways to relieve tension headaches. Physiotherapy can be one of the most effective and safest treatments for these aches and pains. In fact, a number of studies have shown that physiotherapy significantly improves the intensity, frequency and duration of tension headaches in the short and medium term.

Can Physiotherapy East Sheen assist with tension headaches?

The physiotherapist will perform a comprehensive assessment to determine the origin of your tension headache. They will use hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization and manipulation to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. In addition, they will assess and correct your posture. Poor posture can cause neck and shoulder strain that can contribute to tension headaches. Finally, the therapist will instruct you in specific exercises that will strengthen two key muscles of your neck that are known to relieve tension headaches – the longus colli and the capitis.

These stretches and strengthening exercises can help to reduce the severity and frequency of your tension headaches as well as improving overall body strength and flexibility. The physiotherapist may also suggest certain lifestyle and environmental changes that can also assist with reducing stress which can be a significant contributor to tension headaches.

We know that many patients are too busy to make it into our clinics, and for those people we offer home visits. Using our mobile physiotherapy service, Physit, we can bring the expertise of our physiotherapist to your doorstep. Contact us today to learn more about how our physiotherapists can help with your headaches.

Many physiotherapists at Physiotherapy East Sheen pursue further specialization through postgraduate studies, certifications, or advanced training programs. This additional training enables them to develop expertise in specific areas such as sports rehabilitation, neurological physiotherapy, orthopedics, pediatric care, or geriatric rehabilitation.

Prior to joining Physiotherapy East Sheen, physiotherapists typically accumulate significant clinical experience through internships, residencies, and employment in various healthcare settings. This hands-on experience equips them with the practical skills and clinical judgment necessary to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions effectively.