Headache Physiotherapy in Geelong
Isabel Maurer- May 21
- 4 min read
Headaches are a common yet often misunderstood health complaint, with various types and triggers contributing to this complex condition. Whether your headaches are tension-related, hormonal, vascular, or mechanical, physiotherapy can offer effective, long-lasting solutions tailored to your needs.
At Move Sports Physiotherapy in Geelong, we specialise in identifying the root causes of headaches and implementing evidence-based treatment strategies to reduce their frequency and intensity.
Let’s explore the different types of headaches, their contributing factors, and how physiotherapy can help.
The Different Types of Headaches
Headaches are broadly classified into primary headaches (which occur on their own) and secondary headaches (which are a symptom of another condition). Understanding the type of headache you’re experiencing is key to effective treatment.
#1 Tension-Type Headaches (TTH)
Description: The most common type of headache, often described as a dull ache or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head.
Causes: Stress, muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, and poor movement patterns.
Symptoms:
Mild to moderate pain.
Bilateral (both sides of the head).
Not worsened by physical activity.
#2 Migraines
Description: A severe neurological condition that causes throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. Migraines can be debilitating and interfere with daily life.
Causes: Triggers include hormonal changes, certain foods, stress, lack of sleep, and sensory overstimulation.
Symptoms:
Intense, throbbing pain.
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells.
Nausea, vomiting, and sometimes aura (visual disturbances).
#3 Cervicogenic Headaches (CGH)
Description: These headaches originate from dysfunction in the neck (cervical spine) and are often referred pain from neck structures.
Causes: Joint stiffness, muscle imbalances, or poor posture.
Symptoms:
Pain on one side of the head or face, often starting at the base of the skull.
Pain aggravated by neck movements or sustained postures.
#4 Cluster Headaches
Description: A rare and extremely painful headache type that occurs in cyclical patterns or “clusters.”
Causes: Likely linked to the hypothalamus, though the exact cause is unclear.
Symptoms:
Intense, burning pain around one eye or one side of the head.
Redness, tearing, or nasal congestion on the affected side.
Occurs in bouts lasting weeks or months, followed by remission periods.
#5 Hormonal Headaches
Description: Headaches related to hormonal changes, often seen in women during their menstrual cycle, ovulating or menstruating or menopause.
Causes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels.
Symptoms: Similar to migraines, but closely linked to hormonal changes.
#6 Secondary Headaches
Description: These headaches result from an underlying issue, such as dehydration, vascular conditions, or chemical imbalances.
Causes: Medical conditions, lifestyle factors, or injuries.
Symptoms: Vary based on the underlying cause but often mimic primary headaches
Contributing Factors: What’s Behind Your Headache?
Several factors can contribute to or exacerbate headaches:
1. Vascular Factors
Changes in blood flow or vascular pressure often trigger migraines or cluster headaches.
Triggers: Dehydration, stress, and certain foods or beverages.
2. Mechanical Factors
Muscle tension, poor movement patterns, and joint stiffness in the neck and upper back can lead to tension-type or cervicogenic headaches.
Triggers: Prolonged sitting, repetitive motions, or lack of movement variability.
3. Chemical Factors
Imbalances in brain chemicals, dehydration, and dietary factors can play a role in triggering headaches.
Triggers: Alcohol, caffeine, skipped meals, or certain medications.
4. Hormonal Factors
Fluctuations in hormones, particularly estrogen, are linked to hormonal headaches and migraines.
Triggers: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or contraceptives.
How Physiotherapy Can Help with Headaches?
At Move Sports Physiotherapy Geelong, we use a comprehensive approach to treat headaches, combining hands-on care, movement-based strategies, and education to help you manage pain effectively.
1. Identifying Triggers
At Move in Geelong, our physios specialise in headache management. We work with you to hunt for triggers, whether hormonal, mechanical, vascular, or chemical.
By identifying patterns, habits, or underlying issues contributing to your headaches, we can create a tailored treatment plan.
2. Hands-On Treatment
Soft Tissue Release: Relieves muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
Joint Mobilisation: Improves mobility in the cervical spine, reducing tension and stiffness. Headache physio in Geelong at Move can do this in session.
3. Movement Variability and Strengthening
Increasing Movement Variability: We guide you through exercises that promote movement in different planes and directions, helping to alleviate mechanical strain.
Building Strength and Endurance: Strengthening the deep neck flexors, upper back, and shoulder stabilizers supports the cervical spine and prevents muscle fatigue.
4. Stress and Mindfulness Strategies
Stress is a common headache trigger. We incorporate relaxation techniques and mindfulness strategies to help you down-regulate stress responses.
5. Collaborative Care
Some headaches require input from other healthcare professionals. We collaborate with your GP or neurologist to explore options such as medication, hormonal treatments, or advanced diagnostics if needed.
💡Self-Management Tips!
Here are some practical strategies you can implement to reduce headache frequency and severity:
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration is a common headache trigger, so drink plenty of water daily.
Move Regularly: Incorporate regular breaks to move and stretch throughout the day.
Track Triggers: Keep a headache diary to identify and avoid specific triggers like foods, stress, or poor sleep habits.
Practice Mindfulness: Relaxation techniques can help manage stress-related headaches.
Check Your Environment: Use supportive pillows and adjust your workspace ergonomics to reduce mechanical strain.
Get Curious : Can you change your headache when you start to notice those early symptoms?
Why Choose Move Sports Physiotherapy Geelong for Headache Relief?
At Move Sports Physiotherapy Geelong, we take a holistic approach to headache management. Whether your pain stems from muscle tension, hormonal changes, or vascular issues, we aim to provide a personalized and effective treatment plan.
Don’t let headaches control your life.
Book an appointment today to start your journey to a headache-free future with Move Sports Physiotherapy Geelong.
