Headaches & Migraines
Physical therapy helps most with cervicogenic headaches, which come from the neck, and tension-type headaches, which are tied to posture and tight neck and shoulder muscles. For migraines, it works alongside your doctor and does not replace a neurologist. PAR Physical Therapy treats headaches in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Request an Appointment Call Myrtle Beach Call Murrells Inlet
Which headaches physical therapy treats
Cervicogenic headache
A headache from the neck. A headache from neck joints and muscles, often felt as a headache at base of skull, may ease when the neck is treated.
- One-sided, often starts in the neck
- Worse with certain neck positions
Tension headache
A band-like ache that tends to build over the day. Daily headaches often have a posture and muscle-tension part.
- Tight neck and shoulders
- Often worse after screen work
Migraines
Physical therapy is part of care alongside a doctor, and can help reduce how often they happen and how bad they get.
- Treated with your doctor
- Not a replacement for a neurologist
How your neck, jaw and posture add to a headache
Joints and muscles in the upper neck share nerve pathways with the head, so trouble there can show up as a headache behind the eyes or around the temples. Slouched posture, long hours at a screen and clenched jaw muscles all add load. If your jaw clicks, aches or locks, read about TMJ and jaw pain. For neck stiffness, see Neck Pain.
Headaches that began after a bump to the head belong with concussion care.
What PT can and cannot do for migraines
If you came searching for physical therapy for migraines, here is the honest answer.
What it can do
Treat the neck and upper back, which often add to the pattern. Teach posture, relaxation and breathing. Build an exercise plan so you feel in charge.
What it cannot do
Diagnose or medicate a migraine. Your doctor or neurologist leads that care, and we coordinate with them.
What sessions involve
A session combines hands-on work with movement you can repeat at home.
- Hands-on manual therapy for the neck and upper back
- Trigger point release, and Dry Needling when it fits
- Deep neck flexor strengthening
- Postural correction for work and driving
- Relaxation and breathing techniques you can use during a bad day
Go to the ER if a headache comes with
- A sudden "worst headache of my life"
- Weakness, or slurred speech
- Confusion or vision loss
- A recent head injury
For any headache that feels different from your usual pattern, call your doctor first.
Headache care in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet
Call either clinic or request an appointment. Same-day appointments are possible, and we accept most insurance plans.
We see patients in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Request an Appointment Call Myrtle Beach Call Murrells Inlet