Headache Relief Starts Here—Feel Better Today

Leaders in Headache Relief – Our Physical Therapists Are Specialists in Headache Management and Treatment.

How Can a Physical Therapist Help with Headaches ?

Do you suffer from chronic, painful headaches?  Most headaches will resolve on their own, but some are persistent and reduce your quality of life.  Fortunately, relief is just around the corner with physical therapy.

With the appropriate treatment, a physical therapist can help decrease your headache signs and symptoms and improve your quality of life.  For more information or to make an appointment, please contact Orthopedic Physical Therapy at 804-285-0148.

Headache Relief Starts Here—Feel Better Today

What to Expect​

A physical therapist will conduct a thorough evaluation to include a musculoskeletal exam and patient history.
The exam will assess:

  • Range of motion of the neck, jaw and head
  • Joint mobility
  • Muscle tightness, myofascial restriction and trigger points throughout the body
  • Strength of the trunk and neck musculature
  • Posture
  • Appropriate tests and measures

After the evaluation, the physical therapist will create a personalized plan of care.

The plan of care may consist of:​

  • Manual therapy techniques to increase neck motion and decrease muscle tightness
  • Exercises to increase strength throughout the neck, shoulder and trunk
  • Education on posture and body mechanics
  • Trigger point dry needling
  • Modification of daily irritants such as workstation or home office
Leaders in Headache Relief

Success Stories

“I’ve had miserable debilitating migraines for 30 years. With treatment by a top notch neurologist using prescription medications and preventatives, the number and severity were reduced to 1–2 or 3 weekly. However since Tracey Adler has been treating me with dry needling, I have been thrilled to have no more than 2–3 per month—such a fantastic and unbelievable improvement! My life is so much better!
Cathy K.

-Richmond, VA
Orthopedic Physical Therapy has been amazing. I started because of Fibromyalgia and Migraines and found relief. I have been fortunate to see 3 therapists. They are all phenomenal and I am grateful for the help they have provided me. Thanks!
Noelle D.

-Richmond, VA

Headaches - Frequently Asked Questions

Can physical therapy help with my headaches?

Yes, physical therapy can be very effective for many types of headaches, especially those related to neck tension, poor posture, or musculoskeletal issues. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate the potential muscular, postural, and movement-related factors that may contribute to your headaches. Treatment approaches may include manual therapy, targeted exercises, posture correction, and lifestyle modifications to reduce headache frequency and intensity.

Physical therapy is particularly beneficial for:

  • Cervicogenic headaches (originating from neck issues)
  • Tension headaches
  • Post-traumatic headaches (following concussion or whiplash)
  • Headaches related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
  • Headaches associated with poor posture or desk work

While migraines can be more complex, physical therapy may help reduce their triggers and frequency for some patients. During your initial evaluation, your physical therapist will help determine if your headaches are likely to respond to physical therapy interventions.

In Virginia, you are able to see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral, thanks to Direct Access laws.

Ready to Feel Better? Experience Counts

Don’t let pain hold you back. If you have questions or want to know what treatments are right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Richmond, VA office. Let’s get you moving again!