How to reduce tension headaches with physical therapy in Las Cruces, NM

Headache Treatment

When it comes to treating a tension headache, physical therapy is probably not on the first treatments you think of. Physical therapists specialize in treating the musculoskeletal system, which includes your muscles, bones, joints, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. So, where does pain in your head fit in?

It turns out that tension headaches are often related to pain and stiffness in your neck. The tension in your neck muscles puts pressure on the spine, which, in turn, puts pressure on the nerves running through it. This pressure can cause pain and inflammation that creates headaches. 

Treating tension headaches with physical therapy

Physical therapists can help reduce and prevent tension headaches by focusing on treatments for the muscles and soft tissue in your neck using techniques that include: 

  • Strength and flexibility exercises — At the core of many physical therapy treatments for tension headaches are strength and flexibility exercises. Improving the strength and flexibility of your neck muscles helps reduce pressure off the spine, which can reduce tension headaches.
  • Manual therapy — Physical therapists can use hands-on mobilization techniques to reduce tension in the soft tissue of your neck and the joints of your spine. These techniques can help take some pressure off the nerves running through the spine to your brain.
  • Posture correction — Hunching forward when sitting or standing puts additional strain on your neck that can contribute to tension headaches. Physical therapists can study your posture and make recommendations on how to correct it to reduce strain off the neck.
  • Education — Poor habits like smoking, not drinking enough water and not eating a healthy diet can contribute to the development of neck and head pain. Physical therapists can talk to you about negative habits that are contributing to your tension headaches and help you find a solution.

Visit Border Therapy Services in Las Cruces, NM, for tension headache physical therapy

Are you tired of headaches interrupting your daily life? Our physical therapists at Border Therapy Services in Las Cruces, New Mexico, can help. Contact us today to talk to our team about tension headache physical therapy or to schedule an initial appointment.