Understanding Headaches: Causes, Treatment, and When to See a Physiotherapist

By Revamp Physiotherapy, Carina Brisbane

Headaches are incredibly common, but when they start interfering with your work, sleep, or quality of life, it's time to take a closer look. While many people reach for painkillers, physiotherapy offers an effective and long-term solution for many types of headaches, particularly those related to the neck, posture, or tension.

Common Types and Causes of Headaches

Not all headaches are the same. Some of the most common types we treat in physiotherapy include:

• Tension-type headaches – These feel like a constant, dull ache or tightness around the head and are often linked to stress, poor posture, or jaw tension.

• Cervicogenic headaches – These start in the neck and are often felt on one side of the head. They may worsen with neck movement or poor posture.

• Migraine headaches – Often more severe, migraines may cause throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound. While migraines have multiple triggers, neck tension and musculoskeletal issues can contribute.

  
  

Common triggers include:

• Poor posture, especially during long hours at a desk or screen

• Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw

• Stress and fatigue

• Previous neck injury or whiplash

• Grinding or clenching the jaw (bruxism)

  
  

Early Management Tips for Headache Relief

If you experience occasional headaches, try these early conservative strategies:

• Posture awareness – Check your desk ergonomics and avoid slouching or prolonged looking down at screens.

• Heat therapy – Applying a warm pack to the neck or shoulders can help relax tight muscles.

• Stretching and movement – Gentle neck stretches and shoulder rolls can reduce tension.

• Hydration and rest – Dehydration, fatigue, and poor sleep are often overlooked contributors to headaches.

• Stress reduction – Breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and regular breaks can help prevent stress-related headaches.

  
  

When to See a Physiotherapist for Headaches

Physiotherapy can help if:

• You have recurring or persistent headaches

• Pain starts in the neck or worsens with movement

• Over-the-counter medications are not effective or you rely on them regularly

• You experience tension in the shoulders or jaw

• You want to address the root cause rather than just treat the symptoms

  
  

At Revamp Physiotherapy, we assess your posture, neck and shoulder movement, muscle tension, and headache patterns. Treatment may include manual therapy, dry needling, postural correction, exercise, and advice on lifestyle or workstation setup.

You Don’t Have to Put Up with Headaches

Headaches may be common, but they’re not “normal”—and you don’t need to suffer through them. Addressing the musculoskeletal causes with physiotherapy can help reduce the frequency and intensity of your headaches and improve your overall wellbeing.

Struggling with frequent headaches? Our team at Revamp Physiotherapy in Carina, Brisbane, is trained in treating headaches, including tension-type and cervicogenic headaches. We can help you feel better—naturally and effectively.

Book an appointment today to get started on your headache-free path.