Headaches Affect Everyone

Headaches are the third most common pain complaint in the world. In addition to being a common cause of pain, they can be very debilitating, preventing individuals from participating in school, work, and many other activities.

There are many causes of headaches including muscle tension, chronic migraines, TMJ, whiplash after a car accident, after fall or concussion, nerve impingement, and sometimes the cause is unknown.

Symptoms of Headaches caused by Musculoskeletal issues may include:

• Muscle tension and tightness
• Decreased neck range of motion
• Tightness between the shoulder blades
• Episodes of dizziness or vertigo
• Teeth grinding or bruxing

The two most common types of headaches seen in physical therapy are cervicogenic headaches and tension type headaches:

Cervicogenic Headaches are headaches caused by a problem that starts in the neck, but the pain is referred upward into the head. Typical symptoms include pain on one side of the head and is typically felt at the base of the skull, behind the eye, or radiating in a line between the two.

Tension Headaches are typically related to stress and described as a dull, aching pain that is felt along the forehead and can radiate to the sides and back of the head. In addition, soreness in the neck and shoulder muscles may also be felt.

How Physical Therapy Helps Manage Headaches & Migraines

Many are unaware that in addition to medication, physical therapy is a great option to treat headache and migraines. Physical therapy is effective for several types of headaches including cervicogenic headaches and tension type headaches. At Phoenix Physical Therapy & Wellness, a physical therapist will complete a comprehensive evaluation aimed at determining the musculoskeletal causes of your headaches and will create a customized program to address your needs.

Treatment for headaches may include:

• Manual Theraphy
• Flexibility Exercises
• Strenghthening Exercises
• Postural Correction Exercises
• Pain Management Modalities (Heat, Ice, Electrical Stimulation, etc.)
• Therapeutic Massage
• Soft Tissue Mobilization
• Cervical Traction
• Home TENS

Neck Pain

Neck Pain

Physical Therapy can provide relief to neck pain resulting in decreased headaches, neck, and shoulder pain.

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Pain Management

Pain Management

During your first visit with the physical therapist, know that our therapists are not only interested in your pain as a condition, but we are concerned about how this pain affects your overall life. We create your plan of care with your whole self in mind.

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Performing Arts / Dance Injury

Performing Arts / Dance Injury

We created the Performing Arts Rehab & Training Center to allow dancers to feel welcome in a space that understand the unique physical therapy and training needs of the performing artist.

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Sports Injuries

Sports Injuries

We offer same and next day appointments to address sports injuries before they progress. Contact our office ASAP if you need to be seen following a sports related injury.

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Work Injuries

Workers Compensation

We work with many workers compensation companies to make sure that you are not only able to return to work, but the lifestyle you enjoyed before your injury.

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