Almost everyone experiences headaches, medically known as cephalalgia, at some point in life. We may even say, “I get headaches a few times a week; that is normal.” Yet headaches have many possible causes, some more dangerous than others. Some can be treated with physiotherapy, osteopathy or massage therapy, while others require lifestyle changes.
Here are some possible causes of your headaches:
More Serious Headaches
A stroke, intracranial bleeding (a medical emergency: call 911) or a tumour can cause headaches. They may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
- Confusion
- Blurred vision or loss of vision
- Loss of balance
- Loss of consciousness
- Dizziness
A concussion (after a blow to the head) can cause headaches immediately or up to several months after the injury. Pain may worsen with stress, sustained concentration or physical effort. You may also experience fatigue, dizziness, nausea, memory loss, difficulty learning and confusion. If you have these symptoms, see your doctor, who can refer you for treatment if needed, such as vestibular physiotherapy, concussion care or psychotherapy.
Headaches that can be treated with physiotherapy, osteopathy and massage therapy:
Tension Headaches and Cervicogenic Headaches
These headaches are caused by tension in the neck and shoulders or dysfunction in the cervical region. Between 30% and 78% of people experience them at least once in their lives. The tension can result from poor posture or a stiff, twisted neck. It can also occur after a car accident or fall. Whiplash occurs when the head is rapidly forced to the extremes of its range of motion, straining the neck muscles and spraining the cervical joints. These problems can be readily treated with muscle release techniques, joint mobilization or manipulation, and specific exercises.
Migraine Headaches
Migraines affect approximately 15% of the world’s population. They are often throbbing and recurrent, affect one half of the head and/or face, and last about four to 72 hours. A person with migraine may be sensitive to light, sound or certain smells and may experience nausea and vomiting. Some people experience an aura at the start of an episode.
Migraines often have genetic or hormonal origins, but can also be triggered by environmental factors such as certain foods, caffeine, changes in temperature, stress or medication.
Migraines are often treated with medication. If you can identify your triggers, try eliminating them or adjusting your lifestyle.
Other Causes and Solutions:
| Vision problems, such as nearsightedness or presbyopia | See your optometrist or ophthalmologist. |
| Hunger or low blood sugar | Keep a snack or emergency food nearby. |
| Skipping your morning coffee | Try tea instead. Reduce coffee gradually, by 25% per week. |
| Sinusitis or an ear infection | Allow time for symptoms to pass. Consult your doctor. |
| Drinking too much alcohol: a hangover | Alcohol disrupts sleep and causes dehydration. Drink water or a sports drink. |
| Eating something cold: brain freeze | Eat more slowly. |
| Overuse of pain medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen | Consult your doctor or pharmacist. |
| Intense exercise or sex | These headaches normally resolve on their own, but if you experience a new, unusual headache or are concerned, speak with your doctor. |
| An unsuitable pillow | Your head should stay aligned with your body while you sleep, recreating your standing posture. We recommend a lower pillow if you sleep on your back and a slightly higher one if you sleep on your side. |
Consult your physiotherapist for more information!
For a headache assessment, contact us at 514-524-9883 or book an appointment online!
