Headache Treatment in Barrie
Headaches that start at the base of your skull or come with a stiff neck? Our Physiotherapists can assess whether your neck, jaw, or posture is contributing to your headaches and build a plan to help.
- One-on-one assessment with a Registered Physiotherapist
- Advanced Manual Therapy (FCAMPT), IMS / dry needling, and TMJ care
- Direct billing to most insurance providers
- Downtown Barrie at 105 Collier Street
Prefer to talk first? Call or text (705) 279-2759
Does This Sound Familiar?
- Headaches that start at the back of your head and spread forward
- Headaches that are usually on the same side
- Headaches brought on by neck movement or long periods at a desk
- A stiff, sore neck alongside your headaches
- Jaw pain, clenching, or grinding
- A band of pressure around your head that builds with stress
Common Causes We Assess
- Cervicogenic headaches, which come from the joints and muscles of the upper neck
- Tension-type headaches linked to muscle tension and stress
- Jaw and TMJ problems
- Whiplash after a car accident
- Long hours at a desk or on screens (see ergonomics)
- Poor sleep and stress
Headaches often have more than one contributor, and the right plan depends on yours. That is why every visit starts with a thorough assessment.
Types of Headaches Physiotherapy Can Help With
- Cervicogenic headaches come from the neck. The joints, muscles, and nerves of the upper neck share pathways with the nerves of the head, so a problem in the neck can be felt as a headache. They usually start at the base of the skull and spread over one side of the head.
- Tension-type headaches feel like a band of pressure around the head and are often linked to stress and muscle tension.
- Migraines are a neurological condition managed mainly by your doctor. Many people with migraines also have neck pain and tension, and Physiotherapy can help with that part as part of a team approach.
How We Assess Headaches
Your Physiotherapist will ask about your headaches: where they start, how often they happen, what brings them on, and what eases them. We will check the joints and muscles of your neck and upper back, assess your jaw, and look at your posture and daily habits. We also screen for warning signs that mean you should see your doctor, and work alongside your doctor when needed.
Keeping a simple headache diary before your visit can help. Note when each headache starts, how long it lasts, and what you were doing.
Headache Treatment at Excite Physiotherapy
Your Physiotherapist will build a plan around your goals, whether that is getting through a work day without a headache or sleeping better. Depending on your assessment, treatment may include:
- Advanced Manual Therapy for the upper neck and upper back
- IMS / dry needling for tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and base of the skull
- Deep neck strengthening to help your neck handle long days
- TMJ treatment when your jaw is contributing
- Workstation and posture advice
- Self-management strategies so you know what to do when a headache starts
What Recovery Usually Looks Like
Many people with headaches linked to the neck notice changes in how often or how strongly their headaches come on over several weeks of treatment. Tracking your headaches helps you and your Physiotherapist see what is working and adjust your plan.
Not Sure Whether Physiotherapy Is Right for You?
Book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call with one of our Physiotherapists. It is a short online chat where you can ask questions before you book an assessment.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
- We listen. Your Physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, your work, your activity, and what you want to get back to.
- We assess. A hands-on assessment of your neck, upper back, shoulders, and jaw helps identify what is contributing to your pain, and screens for anything that needs a doctor’s attention.
- We make a plan together. You will leave with a clear explanation of what is going on, a treatment plan, and exercises you can start at home.
Please wear a top that lets us see and move your neck and shoulders, such as a tank top or t-shirt. Read more about your first Physiotherapy appointment.
When to Get Urgent Medical Care
Go to the emergency department or call 911 if your headache comes with any of these:
- A sudden, severe headache, especially the worst headache you have ever had
- A headache with a fever and a stiff neck
- Dizziness, double vision, trouble speaking or swallowing, or numbness in your face
- New weakness or numbness in your arms or legs, or trouble with balance or walking
- A headache after a blow to the head, or one that keeps getting worse
What Our Patients Say
From our Google reviews
★★★★★
“After struggling with headaches, neck pain, and imbalance for years, I finally found a diagnosis…”
C.P. · treated by Anthony and Christine
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No referral is needed to see a Physiotherapist in Ontario. Some insurance plans require one for reimbursement, so check your plan if you are unsure.
How do I know if my headache is coming from my neck?
Headaches from the neck often start at the base of the skull, are usually on one side, and come with neck stiffness or are brought on by neck movement or long periods in one position. An assessment can confirm whether your neck is involved.
Can Physiotherapy help migraines?
Migraines are managed mainly by your doctor, but many people with migraines also have neck pain and muscle tension. Physiotherapy can help with those parts as part of a team approach.
Can jaw problems cause headaches?
Yes. Clenching, grinding, and other jaw problems can contribute to headaches, especially around the temples. Our TMD Clinic assesses and treats jaw problems.
Is Physiotherapy covered by insurance?
Physiotherapy is covered by most extended health plans, and we direct bill to many insurers. See our FAQ page for the full list.
Where are you located?
Excite Physiotherapy is at 105 Collier Street in downtown Barrie, Ontario.
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Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book online in a few minutes and choose a time that works for you.
Or call or text (705) 279-2759
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info@excitephysio.com
Hours:
Mon: 8:30 am to 7 pm
Tue and Wed: 7:30 am to 7 pm
Thu: 8:30 am to 7 pm
Fri: 7:30 am to 3:30 pm
Sat and Sun: Closed
Experience. Exceptional Skills. Results.
Whether you are experiencing back pain for the first or have been suffering with pain for years, we have the experience and the skills necessary to help you get relief quickly. Located downtown Barrie, Ontario.
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of Anishinaabeg people, which include the Odawa, Ojibwe, and Pottawatomi Nations collectively known as the Three Fires Confederacy. We are dedicated to moving forward in the spirit of respect and reconciliation by honoring the history and culture of Indigenous people.
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