Headache suffers would agree their condition is a pain in the neck, but researchers now know that this type of headache can be relieved.
Associate Professor Gwen Jull of The University of Queensland’s Physiotherapy Department has been in demand internationally since a research project trialling treatments for neck related headaches provided the answer.
The project focused on headaches caused by joint strain or arthritis of the neck. According to Assoc Prof Jull, this type of headache is one of the top three most frequent recurrent headaches. The trial showed that while both neck manipulation and a specific gentle exercise program significantly decreased headaches, a combination of these treatments provided an even higher frequency of relief.
‘The relief from headache lasts and most importantly the exercises are easily taught, not time consuming and can be incorporated into everyday life,” Assoc Prof Jull said.
“The exercise method is unique. It concentrates on the deep neck and shoulder girdle muscles, restoring muscle control rather than strength and general fitness.”
The method is attracting widespread interest among physiotherapists and Assoc Prof Jull has been kept busy with invitations to teach the new approach at international seminars.
Assoc Prof Jull said she had been involved in many years of research to define the muscle dysfunction associated with cervicogenic headaches. She found the answers in the deep muscles of the neck and developed a specific exercise program in response.
The new treatment has been incorporated into the undergraduate physiotherapy program at UQ and is available to practising physiotherapists through professional development courses.
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