Spinal manipulation has real but limited support for cervicogenic headache, the type that starts in the joints and muscles of the upper neck. Manipulation aimed at the neck gives a small short-term edge over other hands-on treatment, manipulation of the mid-back alone doesn’t ease the headache itself, and neither holds up without exercise behind it....
Spinal manipulation dates back to Hippocrates and ancient Egyptian medicine, but the explanation for why it helps has changed more recently than the treatment itself. Patients often describe it the same way: “my spine was out of place, and the manipulation put it back.” Research has disproven that theory. Imaging taken before and after a...
The muscles of the neck are responsible for movements of the head and shoulder blade, as well as, stabilization of the head on the neck during daily activities. These muscles must be capable of both low repetition, high force contractions as well as high repetition, low force contractions to accomplish these tasks. Patient’s with neck...
Headaches are one of the most common reasons patients seek care by a Physical Therapist. In our Boulder Physical Therapy and Lafayette Physical Therapy practices we have found optimal outcomes and fewer visits for treating many headaches types including cervicogenic headaches. These headaches are driven from the neck (cervical spine) and cause pain referral to...
Spinal manipulation, dating at least to Hippocrates’ writings, is one of the oldest known medical treatments. Currently, these treatments are commonly performed by Physical Therapists, chiropractors, and physicians to treat a variety of musculoskeletal pains. Evidence supporting spinal manipulation is primarily found in three areas: headache, neck pain, and low back pain. This data supports...
Half of all individuals experience at least one headache a year and 15% of the population reports a headache on any given day. Headache causes are multifactorial but can be divided into groups such as cervicogenic (driven from the neck), migraine, and tension. Tension headaches remain the most commonly diagnosed headache sub group associated primarily...
Headaches are a universal experience, affecting millions worldwide. They come in various forms, from the dull ache of a tension headache to the debilitating throbs of a migraine. Sadly, these painful episodes significantly disrupt daily life, causing missed work, reduced productivity, and emotional distress. While medication delivers temporary relief, many seek long-term solutions. Fortunately, physical...
By: Ian Nay, PT, DPT, OCS If you suffer from frequent headaches, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience tension headaches, migraines, or cervicogenic headaches (those that originate from neck problems). While many reach for over-the-counter painkillers for temporary relief, few realize that physical therapy can offer a lasting, drug-free solution. Here’s how working with...
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain or Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) is a painful condition limiting a patient’s ability to utilize the joint moving the lower jaw on the skull. When painful this joint limits an individual’s ability to eat, speak, and yawn. Pain is often felt in front of the ear over the joint surfaces. In addition...
