FAQs

Causes of Cervicogenic Headaches

Musculoskeletal and neurovascular structures in the neck play a significant role in causing cervicogenic headaches. Here are some key factors that actively contribute to the development of these headaches:

Upper Neck Joint Dysfunction

The dysfunction of the upper three neck joints, which include the atlantooccipital joint (O-C1), atlantoaxial joint (C1/2), and C2/3 cervical spine joints, actively causes cervicogenic headaches. When these joints become too stiff, excessively mobile, or locked in an abnormal position, they actively generate pain signals. These signals are then actively transmitted to the brainstem's trigeminocervical nucleus (TCN). As a result, the brain actively interprets these signals as a headache.

Neck Muscle Involvement

Active overworking, knots, spasms, and weakness in the neck and shoulder blade muscles actively contribute to cervicogenic headaches. In certain cases, overworked muscles actively attempt to protect injured neck joints. Conversely, weak muscles actively contribute to muscle fatigue-related symptoms. It is crucial to actively maintain proper resting tension, length, strength, power, and endurance in the neck muscles to actively prevent cervicogenic headaches.

Cervical and Occipital Nerve Irritation

Arthritis, disc bulges, or swelling actively cause pinching of the nerves in the upper neck. These conditions actively occur. As a result, this irritation actively leads to abnormal neural motion, known as neuromechanosensitivity or abnormal neurodynamics. Consequently, pain signals actively get transmitted along the nerves, causing headaches. To illustrate, envision the neck as the "switch," the nerves as the "power cords," and the headache as the "light" that actively comes on.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Consulting with a skilled physiotherapist or headache specialist actively plays a crucial role in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and receiving appropriate treatment for cervicogenic headaches. They actively possess the ability to assess and address the dysfunction in the neck joints, muscles, and nerves that actively contribute to the occurrence of headaches.

The treatment for cervicogenic headaches may actively involve a combination of manual therapy techniques, targeted exercises to improve muscle imbalances, correction of posture, implementation of pain management strategies, and recommendations for lifestyle modifications aimed at reducing triggers and promoting overall neck health. Furthermore, by actively addressing the underlying causes and optimising the function of the neck structures, individuals can actively experience significant relief from cervicogenic headaches and considerably enhance their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Dysfunctions in the musculoskeletal and neurovascular structures of the neck actively result in cervicogenic headaches. These dysfunctions actively involve the upper neck joints, neck muscles, and cervical and occipital nerves. It is actively essential to understand the causes of cervicogenic headaches for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Actively seeking the advice of a qualified physiotherapist with a particular interest in headaches is crucial for actively assessing and managing cervicogenic headaches. Through a comprehensive evaluation, they can actively identify specific dysfunctions and actively develop a personalised treatment plan to address them.

The treatment plan for cervicogenic headaches may actively involve employing manual therapy, implementing targeted exercises, correcting posture, and implementing pain management strategies. By actively addressing the underlying causes of these headaches and actively improving the function of the neck structures, individuals can actively find relief.. Additionally, it is actively crucial to prioritise neck health and actively adopt appropriate lifestyle modifications to effectively reduce triggers and actively prevent future occurrences of cervicogenic headaches.

Remember, if you actively experience persistent or severe headaches, we actively recommend you consult a healthcare professional to actively ensure an accurate diagnosis and actively receive appropriate treatment.

More info:

• Headache & Migraine
• Neck Headache
• Jaw Headache

How Do You Get Rid Of A Neck Headache?

Quality neck physiotherapy can have a speedy and effective result in relieving your neck headache. The key to better treatment response is confirming your diagnosis. After your assessment, your physiotherapist will start you with treatment techniques that address your problems. Or, they will refer you on towards the most suitable clinician.

Your neck headache treatment may include all or some of the following techniques:

• Stiff neck joints may need to be loosened or unlocked via joint mobilisation (gentle gliding techniques), joint traction or, in specific cases, gentle and localised joint manipulation techniques.
• Hypermobile (or dynamically unstable) joints may require specific deep neck muscle strengthening exercises to stabilise, control and limit the joint movement.
• Tight or overactive muscles may require muscle stretching, neck massage, acupuncture, dry needling, trigger point release or other relaxation techniques.
• Weak muscles may require specific strengthening exercises. This weakness may include your postural shoulder blade and neck muscles.
• Nerve dysfunction identified by your physiotherapist will depend upon your specific examination findings. Neurosensitivity is a common finding that needs addressing with attentive, professional care.
• Posture correction via specific posture exercises, posture awareness techniques, posture taping, or a brace.
• Provide helpful advice on preventing neck dysfunction in the future, e.g. workstation setup, ergonomics, awkward neck positions and postures to avoid.

Who Treats Cervicogenic Headaches?

Chronic headache sufferers typically resolve their neck headaches within days or weeks.

In addition to relieving your neck headaches, your physiotherapist aims to address why you are experiencing neck headaches. After all, helping you to avoid future neck headaches is a crucial component of your rehabilitation.

Relief of your neck headache is quite often immediate! If a neck headache solely causes your trouble, it is common to experience instant relief as you walk out of the clinic.

Depending on the severity and the specific underlying causes of your neck headaches, most sufferers will experience a reduced headache after your initial consultation.

For more information, please consult your neck headache physiotherapist.

More info:

• Headache & Migraine
• Neck Headache
• Jaw Headache

What are Primary and Secondary Headaches?

The International Headache Society classifies headaches into two categories: Primary and Secondary.

Primary headaches are independent of any other issues and encompass migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches.

Secondary headaches are triggered by an underlying problem. They can include post-whiplash headaches, neck headaches, jaw headaches, and drug withdrawal headaches. An example of a secondary headache is the "ice cream headache," resulting from extreme cold within your mouth. In essence, a secondary headache is a symptom of an underlying issue rather than the root cause. Treating a secondary headache involves addressing the source. For instance, you might need to loosen stiff upper neck joints or refrain from eating ice cream!

Mixed Headache-Migraine Types

It's possible to experience one, two, or even more types of headaches or migraines concurrently.

One type of headache may lead to another or overlap with another. For instance, a painful neck could cause increased muscular tension, subsequently elevating your blood pressure. In this scenario, you could be dealing with a neck headache, a tension headache, and a migraine all at once!

In our experience, pinpointing the primary source of your headache or migraine is crucial for effective management.

Other Potential Causes of Your Headaches or Migraines

Your physiotherapist and doctor can assist in diagnosing the source of your headaches. Sometimes, specific tests can confirm your diagnosis, while other times, it might involve a process of elimination.

Regrettably, a small percentage of patients may experience severe underlying causes of their head pain that require investigation. These causes might include brain tumours, aneurysms, meningitis, and other systemic illnesses. See Headache Red Flags.

Your physiotherapist or doctor may suggest completing a headache or migraine questionnaire to aid in classification, diagnosis, and treatment. After completing these questionnaires, share the results with your healthcare provider to facilitate accurate diagnosis and treatment.

At PhysioWorks, we evaluate, diagnose, and treat neck, whiplash, stress, and jaw headaches.

For an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, it's recommended to consult your healthcare practitioner.

More info: Headaches & Migraines

How Can You Tell The Difference Between Heel Spurs And Plantar Fasciitis?

Well, unless you have X-ray vision, you can’t! First, let’s look at what heel spurs and plantar fasciitis are.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that extend from the heel bone called the calcaneum. They occur in response to an overload of tissue. The plantar fasciitis, the connective tissue that runs through the foot's arch, pulls at its attachment point at the heel. Excessive pulling may overload this attachment point. The body’s response to this excessive loading is to lay down more bony tissue to strengthen the area. The problem may be that this harder bony structure can further irritate the softer tissue around it.

It is not uncommon to have heel spurs without any pain. However, a heel spur's presence makes plantar fasciitis more likely.

More info: Heel Spurs.

Plantar Fasciitis

To describe this condition briefly, the connective tissue helping to provide stability to the foot's arch (plantar fascia) can become irritated (inflamed) and /or change the fascia fibre shape. Your plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band of connective tissue originating on the heel's bottom surface and extending along the sole towards the toes. Your plantar fascia passively limits the over-flattening of your arch. It is known as plantar fasciitis when your plantar fascia develops micro tears or becomes inflamed.

More info: Plantar Fasciitis

How Do We Tell The Difference?

We use imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI to determine the presence of a heel spur. We can also use ultrasound or MRI to diagnose plantar fasciitis. We can also use some clinical tests and look for key symptoms, such as first-step pain, to diagnose plantar fasciitis without needing expensive imaging.

Remember that the two can occur together, or you can have a heel spur with or without plantar fasciitis.

Heel Pain FAQs & Products

Acute Injury Signs

Acute Injury Management.

To correctly manage an acute injury, awareness of the following warning signs is essential. While specific injuries may be immediately noticeable, others can gradually worsen. Failing to address both types of injuries can lead to chronic problems. Please refer to the injury by body part section for comprehensive information on specific injuries.

Injury Warning Signs

Do not overlook these warning signs of injury:

Joint Pain

Never dismiss joint pain, especially in the knee, ankle, elbow, and wrist joints. Since these joints lack muscle coverage, the pain is unlikely to originate from muscles. If joint pain persists for more than 48 hours, seek a professional diagnosis.

Tenderness

If pressing your finger on a specific bone, muscle, or joint point elicits pain, it may indicate a significant injury. Suppose the same spot on the opposite side of your body does not cause similar pain. In that case, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Swelling

Virtually all sports or musculoskeletal injuries result in swelling. Swelling accompanies pain, redness, and heat in many cases. Swelling is typically visible but can occasionally give a sensation of fullness despite looking normal.

Reduced Range of Motion

If swelling is not apparent, check for a reduced range of motion in a joint. Significant swelling within a joint can limit your range of motion. Compare one side of your body to the other to identify significant differences, which may indicate an injury requiring attention.

Weakness

Assess for weakness by performing the same task on both sides of your body. For instance, lifting the same weight with your right and left sides can reveal discrepancies. Similarly, try placing body weight on one leg and then the other to detect variations in your ability to support weight. Noticeable differences suggest an injury that necessitates attention.

Immediate Injury Treatment: Step-by-Step Guidelines

Take immediate action to treat your injury with the following step-by-step guidelines:

1. Stop the activity immediately to prevent further damage.
2. Wrap the injured part with a compression bandage to provide support and limit swelling.
3. Apply ice to the injured area using a bag of crushed ice or a frozen vegetable bag. Ice helps reduce pain and swelling.
4. Elevate the injured part above heart level to minimise swelling further.
5. Consult your health practitioner for a proper diagnosis, especially if you suspect a severe injury.
6. Under professional guidance, engage in a rehabilitation program tailored to your injury for optimal recovery.
7. If you're not experiencing improvement, seek a second opinion to ensure thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Remember, taking immediate steps and seeking professional help can significantly contribute to your injury recovery. Act promptly and prioritise your well-being.

Sports Injury? What to Do? When?

A Physiotherapist’s Guide to Sports Injury Recovery

Experiencing a sports injury can be a significant setback, not just for your athletic performance but also for your daily life. With the evolving landscape of sports medicine, knowing the best practices for injury management is crucial. This guide, based on the latest research and a physiotherapist’s perspective, explains how to effectively manage sports injuries.

What is a Sports Injury?

A sports injury involves damage to your body that occurs during physical activity. These injuries can range from mild sprains to severe muscle tears and can impact any part of the body. The key to successful recovery is not just treating the injury but also understanding the mechanics behind it. Physiotherapists focus on identifying the root cause of your injury to help prevent future occurrences.

Why Do Sports Injuries appen?

They typically occur due to a combination of overuse, improper technique, or inadequate conditioning. External factors like poor equipment or hazardous playing conditions can also contribute. Understanding the cause of your injury is vital to developing an effective treatment plan.

How to Manage a Sports Injury?

1. Immediate Steps Post-Injury
   • Rest: Cease any activity that exacerbates your pain. The first 48 hours are critical – avoid movements that might worsen the injury.
   • Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the injured area for 20 minutes every two hours to reduce pain and swelling. This method is particularly beneficial for acute injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises.
   • Compression: Use a compressive bandage or support. It helps minimise swelling and supports the injured area, aiding in the formation of new scar tissue.
   • Elevation: Elevate the injured part above the level of your heart to reduce swelling, especially for limb injuries.
2. When to Apply Heat? After the initial 48-hour period, if the acute swelling has reduced, gentle heat application can be beneficial. Heat therapy enhances blood flow and can help in relaxing tight muscles and easing pain.
3. Why is Early Intervention Important? Research highlights the importance of early physiotherapy intervention. Beginning treatment within a few days post-injury can accelerate healing and reduce pain more effectively.
4. What is a Tailored Treatment Plan? Physiotherapy offers a range of treatments, including joint mobilisation, massage, and electrotherapy, each tailored to your specific needs. A personalised exercise program is designed not just for rehabilitation but also to prevent re-injury.
5. Managing Pain and Medication Consult a healthcare professional for advice on pain management. Over-the-counter painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective but should be taken under guidance, considering your overall health and potential side effects.
6. Role of Nutrition in Healing Nutrition plays a vital role in recovery. A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals can significantly enhance your body’s ability to repair itself.
7. Returning to Activity: The Safe Way Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts under guidance. Pay attention to your body’s signals – any discomfort or pain is a sign to slow down.

FAQs on Sports Injury

1. What are common sports injuries? Common sports injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, dislocations, and tendinopathies.
2. How long does it take to recover from a sports injury? Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury. Minor injuries might heal in a few weeks, while severe injuries could take months.
3. Can I treat a sports injury at home? Minor injuries can often be managed at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). However, consulting a physiotherapist is recommended.
4. When should I see a doctor or physio for a sports injury? If you experience severe pain, swelling, or loss of function, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.
5. What is the best way to prevent sports injuries? Regular exercise, proper warm-ups, and using the correct equipment are key to preventing sports injuries.
6. What are the benefits of physiotherapy for sports injuries? Physiotherapy aids in faster recovery, pain management, and prevention of future injuries through tailored treatment plans.
7. Can nutrition affect my recovery from a sports injury? Yes, a balanced diet with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals supports tissue repair and recovery.
8. How does heat therapy help in sports injury recovery? Heat therapy improves blood circulation, helps relax muscles, and alleviates pain, especially after the initial 48 hours post-injury.
9. Is it safe to exercise with a sports injury? Exercise should be resumed gradually under the supervision of a physiotherapist to avoid aggravating the injury.
10. What should I avoid doing after a sports injury? Avoid returning to high-intensity activities too soon, which can worsen the injury and prolong recovery.

Conclusion

Dealing with a sports injury requires patience and proper care. By following these guidelines and consulting a physiotherapist or sports doctor, you can ensure a safe and effective recovery. Remember, each injury is unique, so it’s essential to tailor the recovery process to your specific needs.

What to Do?

If you’re unsure about any aspect of your injury or recovery, consult a physiotherapist. Early guidance is the key to a swift and effective recovery.

Read More:

• Why Physiotherapy is Crucial in Sports Injury Recovery?
• How to Prevent Sports Injuries Through Proper Conditioning?
• The Importance of Early Physiotherapy Intervention

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Severe Back Pain?

Severe Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Back pain affects many Australians at some point in their lives. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that significantly impacts daily activities. Knowing the causes and symptoms of severe back pain is crucial for timely and effective treatment. This article explores the various aspects of severe back pain from a physiotherapist’s viewpoint. We will discuss the latest research and provide practical advice for those suffering from this common ailment.

What Causes Severe Low Back Pain?

Acute low back pain often stems from sudden injuries, primarily affecting the muscles and ligaments supporting the back. Causes include disc injuries, muscle spasms, strains, or tears. However, sometimes the underlying issue is more complex, and it’s essential to recognise these instances.

Recognising Serious Back Injuries

Severe back pain can sometimes signal a serious injury or condition. Urgent attention is required if you experience neurological symptoms such as:

• Pins and needles (paraesthesia)
• Numbness (anaesthesia)
• Weakness in leg muscles
• Altered reflexes
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

These symptoms can indicate a significant problem requiring immediate medical consultation.

Non-Musculoskeletal Causes of Back Pain

While muscle and ligament issues commonly cause low back pain, various health conditions can also be culprits, including:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Spinal infections (osteomyelitis, discitis)
• Kidney infections or stones
• Spondyloarthropathies like rheumatoid arthritis
• Gynaecological issues, such as complications in pregnancy, ovarian conditions, and endometriosis

The Latest Research in Back Pain

Recent studies highlight the importance of early intervention in managing back pain. A holistic approach, combining physiotherapy with lifestyle modifications, shows promising results in pain management and recovery. Advances in physiotherapy techniques, such as targeted exercises and manual therapies, play a critical role in treating severe back pain. Research supports that early physiotherapy intervention can prevent the progression of acute pain to chronic pain, improving overall outcomes .

What is the Best Way to Treat Back Pain?

When to Seek Professional Advice

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional, like a physiotherapist or doctor, for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan if you experience severe back pain. Physiotherapists assess musculoskeletal issues and can develop a customised treatment plan to address your specific needs.

Back Pain Management Strategies

Effective management of back pain involves a combination of physiotherapy, exercises, and, if necessary, medical interventions. Physiotherapists may recommend:

• Tailored exercise programs to strengthen back muscles
• Manual therapy techniques
• Pain management strategies, heat or cold therapy
• Dry needling or acupuncture
• Back massage
• Postural advice
• Ergonomic assessments

What to Do?

If you’re experiencing severe back pain, it’s important to take the following steps:

1. Avoid activities that worsen your pain.
2. Apply heat or cold packs for temporary relief.
3. Consult a physiotherapist or doctor for a professional assessment and treatment plan.
4. Follow a tailored exercise regimen as advised by your physiotherapist.
5. Monitor your symptoms and seek urgent medical help if you experience any neurological signs.

Conclusion

Severe back pain can be a debilitating condition, but with the right knowledge and professional guidance, it is manageable. Understanding the causes, recognising warning signs, and seeking timely treatment from a physiotherapist can significantly improve your quality of life. Early intervention is key to effective management and recovery from severe back pain.

Further Reading and Resources

For more detailed information on back pain causes, symptoms, and management, visit our Back Pain section, a comprehensive resource with a wealth of information provided by experienced physiotherapists.