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​WHAT CAUSES IT?
  • Dysfunction of cervical and thoracic joints

  • Tight muscles (sub occipital muscles, upper trapezius, SCM, splenius capitis and cervicis)

  • Poor posture (especially at the computer, or with prolonged sitting)

  • Physical and emotional stress

  • Inadequate rest

  • Anxiety

  • Fatigue

  • Nerve compression

  • Trigger point referral

  • Weak deep cervical flexors

WHAT IS IT? CERVICAL/TENSION HEADACHES

A headache which is brought on due to stress, and often posturally caused muscular tightness and joint stiffness of the neck and thoracic spine.
 

Signs and symptoms

A headache which:

  • Has a gradual onset

  • Presents as a dull ache

  • Tends to be one sided, but can be both

  • Has associated symptoms such as neck pain or reduced neck range of movement

  • Is common following a trauma such as whiplash

  • If often posturally related (forward head posture, rounded shoulders, upper cervical extension)

  • Typically one sided, but may be both

  • Causes discomfort, but does not prevent daily function like a migraine can.

HOW TO SELF MANAGE

 

  • Use of a heat bag or hot water bottle - warning

  • Stress reduction

  • Neck stretches

  • Postural awareness

     

 

 

PROGNOSIS

General anterior ankle impingement should improve with conservative physiotherapy management. 

If pain persists, a cortisone injection to the area is an option. 

If there is a bone spur, x-ray can confirm it.

Arthroscopic removal is an option. Crutches may be required post-surgery for 1-2 weeks.  Return to sport should be possible within 4-6 weeks.

HOW PHYSIO HELPS?

Your physiotherapist will be able to take an accurate subjective history and assess your neck for contributing factors.

They can provide manual therapy including:

  • Joint mobilisation or manipulation

  • Massage

  • Muscle and neural stretches

  • Acupuncture or dry needling

  • Pilates exercises and deep cervical flexor education

  • Posture awareness and advice

  • Ergonomic advice (e.g. - workstation setup; correct pillow height)

 

 

OR for an online consultation click here

OPENING HOURS

Monday-Friday: 8:00am - 8:00pm

​Saturday: 8:00am - 12:00pm

Sunday: By Appointment​

 

ADDRESS

SMARTPHYSIO - Sammy Margo Physiotherapy
444 Finchley Road
London
NW2 2HY
Email: info@smartphysio.co.uk
Tel: ​020 7435 4910​​​
Fax: 020 7435 0461

Web: smartphysio.co.uk

FIND​ US

Disclaimer: Information made available by AskPhysio (SMARTPHYSIO) is provided for guidance only and should not be considered as medical recommendations or advice.  AskPhysio is not responsible for errors or omissions in the information. Please consider what the best options for your healthcare are, based on the urgency of your condition and nature of your condition. Please consult a GP or Healthcare Specialist to discuss any specific concerns that exist prior to using the information provided.

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