Head Pain at Alliance Orthopedics
Head injuries can range from a mild bump to the head to a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Therefore, if you experience head pain, it is essential your medical team knows its exact cause before beginning treatment. Although determining the source of head pain can sometimes pose a challenge, the team at Alliance Orthopedics are experts in diagnosing, treating, and assisting our patients in recovering from head pain.
Common Causes of Head Pain
Head pain can have many different sources. However, some of the most common causes are migraines, sinus pressure or infection, inflammation of the meninges (the membrane that covers the brain), nerve irritation, and head injuries like concussions.
Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common causes of head pain and can come from stress, lack of sleep, hunger, sinus issues, and other infections and ailments.
There are five common types of headaches, which include:
1. Cluster Headaches
This type of headache is typically single-sided and can present pain in varying degrees from mild to severe. The pain is usually pulsating and tends to refer behind the eyes. Cluster headaches usually last about an hour and are often recurring throughout the day.
2. Tension Headaches
A tension headache comes from tightening the neck, head, and upper back muscles. They are typically mild to moderate with centralized pain in either the top, front, or sides of your head.
Tension headaches can be chronic (occurring more than 15 days a month) or episodic (occurring less than 15 days a month). They may stem from underlying stress, depression, or head injuries.
3. Ice-pick Headaches
Ice-pick headaches, also referred to as flash headaches, present sharp, stabbing pain and typically lasts from a few seconds to a minute. However, these short bursts of pain can come and go for a few days.
4. Sinus Headaches
A sinus headache may come as a result of an allergy and can cause deep pain near the forehead. Sinus headaches are usually focused around the bridge of the nose.
5. Migraines
Migraine headaches are some of the most intense headaches and can have various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, and the inability to focus. In addition, migraines often present a throbbing or stabbing pain and affect the entire head.
Concussions
A concussion is a head injury that occurs due to a direct hit to the head. These injuries can be severe and may require immediate medical attention.
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty focusing
- Problems with memory and concentration
Accidents
Sports injuries and auto collisions are common causes of head injuries such as whiplash and concussions. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the neck is suddenly and quickly extended then released. This can happen as a result of an accident or other trauma.
Whether you have been in an auto accident or suffered a sports injury, NJ Spine and Wellness will diagnose the cause of your head pain and help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
Treatments for Head Pain
At Alliance Orthopedics, we provide a variety of treatments for those suffering from head pain, including:
Physical Therapy
Whether you are suffering from chronic headaches or have suffered an injury to the head, our physical therapists are highly trained to help manage your pain.
Chiropractic Care
Another effective way to treat head pain is through chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is a non-invasive solution for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of chronic head pain.
Dry Needling
Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique used to target muscular pain and tension. Unlike traditional acupuncture, which originated in ancient China, dry needling focuses specifically on releasing myofascial trigger points, commonly known as muscle knots, to alleviate pain and improve range of motion.
