Headaches After Concussion: Types and Treatment Approaches

A concussion happens when the brain shakes inside the head, usually after a hit or fall. One common problem after a concussion is headaches. These headaches can be mild or severe and may last a short time or become recurrent.

If you or a loved one has headaches after a concussion, getting the right help is very important. At FYZICAL Cinco Ranch East in Katy, TX, we offer physical therapy to help ease headaches and support your recovery after a concussion.

Types of Headaches After a Concussion

Headaches after a concussion can feel different for everyone. Knowing what type you have helps us choose the best treatment. 

Here are some common ones:

1.  Tension-Type Headaches

These headaches feel like a tight band squeezing your head. They often come from stress or tight muscles in the neck and shoulders. The pain is usually dull and lasts for a long time.

2. Migraine Headaches

Migraines are intense headaches that may come with feeling sick, throwing up, or being sensitive to light and sound. Sometimes, people get migraines after a concussion (post-concussion migraines) even if they never had them before.

3. Cluster Headaches

These are less common but very painful. The pain is sharp and felt around one eye and can last a few minutes to a few hours.

4. Cervicogenic Headaches

Sometimes headaches start because of neck problems like tight muscles or the spine being out of place. This can happen after a concussion and cause pain that radiates from the neck to the head.

Why Headaches Happen After a Concussion

Several things can cause headaches after a concussion:

1. Brain Chemical Changes: A concussion can cause changes in brain chemicals, leading to headaches.

1. Neck and Spine Strain: Your neck might get tight or out of place, which can cause tension headaches or the types that start in the neck and radiate to the head.

1. Increased Sensitivity: The brain can become extra sensitive to light, sound, or movement, which can cause migraine headaches.

1. Reduced Blood Flow: Sometimes, blood does not flow well to the brain after a concussion, which can cause headaches.

1. Sleep Problems: Many people have trouble sleeping after a concussion. Poor sleep can lead to headaches.

Treatment Approaches for Headaches After a Concussion

Headaches after a concussion can be challenging to manage, but there are many ways to help you feel better and heal. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving how you move, and making daily life easier.

At FYZICAL Cinco Ranch East, our physical therapists in Katy, TX, first listen carefully to your symptoms and understand your type of headache. Then, our therapists create a safe and simple plan made just for you. Common treatments include:

Physical Therapy for Headaches

Many headaches come from tight or sore neck muscles after a concussion. Physical therapy helps by using gentle exercises and hands-on techniques to relax muscles, improve neck alignment, and ease pain.

Vestibular Therapy

If your headaches come with dizziness or balance problems, vestibular therapy can help. These exercises train your brain and body to work together better, reducing dizziness and making headaches less frequent.

Postural Exercises

Poor posture can put extra strain on your neck and shoulders, making headaches worse. Strengthening exercises for your neck and back help you stand and sit correctly, reducing tension.

Migraine-Specific Treatments

If you have migraines after a concussion, treatments may include special exercises, stress relief techniques, and lifestyle advice. Your therapist might also work with other doctors to find the best plan for you.

Patient Education

Learning about your headaches and how to avoid triggers is very important. Your therapist will teach you how to manage your symptoms, what activities to avoid, and ways to relax and reduce stress.

When to Seek Help

If your headaches persist for a long time or worsen, seeing a therapist is crucial. Getting help early can prevent chronic headaches and make your recovery faster

At FYZICAL Cinco Ranch East in Katy, TX, we focus on helping people with concussions and headaches. We provide exceptional care to support your recovery and help you feel better.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is dealing with headaches after a concussion, getting the proper concussion management and physical therapy is important. Early treatment can help reduce headaches, improve dizziness, and support faster healing.

At FYZICAL Cinco Ranch East in Katy, TX, our experienced therapists help you through safe and effective dizziness treatment and headache relief. You're just a call away. Contact us today!