Many people suffer from recurrent headaches, which have a significant impact on their quality of life. Drug treatment is often unsuccessful, and chronic use of drugs can lead to unwanted side effects. As an alternative, manual therapy can be used to treat migraines and tension headaches.
What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy is a physiotherapeutic method that involves manually influencing a patient’s body tissues to relieve pain and improve function. The specialist performs gentle manipulations that can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation and increase range of motion. Manual therapy can be an effective tool in treating a variety of ailments, including migraines and tension headaches.
How does manual therapy help migraines and tension headaches?
Migraine is an unpleasant headache that is often accompanied by photophobia, nausea or vomiting. A tension headache, on the other hand, manifests as a constant, pressing sensation around the head, often associated with muscle tension. Researchers believe that one of the triggers of migraines and tension headaches may be neck muscle tension. Therefore, manual therapy , by affecting the muscles of the neck, can help alleviate symptoms.
Research confirms effectiveness of manual therapy in treating headaches
Many researchers are focusing on the topic of manual therapy in the context of headache treatment. Their results are promising. For example, a review of the scientific literature conducted by Haas et al. (2019) showed that manual therapy can produce significant improvements in migraine patients. Other studies suggest that manual therapy may be as effective as medication in treating tension headaches.
When to opt for manual therapy?
Manual therapy can be considered when traditional treatments are not working, pain is intense and quality of life is affected, and when the patient is looking for a safe alternative to medication. However, it is always crucial to consult such a solution with a doctor or specialist.
What does manual therapy look like?
Manual therapy is an individually tailored process, the frequency, intensity and techniques used of which are decided by the specialist depending on the patient’s needs and condition. These can include relaxation, mobilization or manipulation techniques. It is important that the therapy is carried out by an experienced, qualified specialist.
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