Are you someone that experiences a  headache monthly, weekly, or even daily?

You could benefit from physical therapy treatment! Headaches can be caused by a large range of conditions such as vascular problems, sinus issues, muscular issues, and joint related issues. Physical therapists treat headaches that originate from the musculoskeletal system. These are commonly caused by muscle tightness, decreased joint range of motion, spinal disc pathologies, poor posture, TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) dysfunctions, and many more.

Living with chronic headaches can affect many aspects of our everyday lives. Studies note, at the age of 40, 70-80% of females and 60% of males report experiencing headaches in the US (Scher et al. 1999). A lifetime prevalence is noted between 83-93% (Boardman et al. 2003). These reports show that the majority of the population will experience headaches at some point in their lives.

Persistent headaches that are musculoskeletal in nature may not go away completely without the cause being addressed in physical therapy. In order for a physical therapist to diagnose you with a musculoskeletal issue they would do a thorough, hands-on evaluation. Next they would address your cause through a variety of treatment methods.

Possible treatment methods include:

• Soft tissue mobilization
• Trigger point dry needling
• Joint mobilization
• Ergonomic training
• Postural education

Physical Therapy treatment for headaches can be very effective and could work quickly with proper intervention and education. If you are experiencing frequent headaches contact me for an evaluation and see how I can help you become “headache free.”

Courtney Andrews, DPT
Andrews Physical Therapy
803-530-2816
CourtneyAndrewsDPT@gmail.com