What Does a Concussion Headache Feel Like? And How to Get Rid of Them
Post-concussion headaches are complicated, and there is still much work to be done in understanding why and how they happen. As a Concussion Physical Therapist and owner of Happy Brain Physical Therapy I treat post traumatic headaches (and many other symptoms people experience after concussion) both in person and through my online treatment course for people who are unable to come to Park City, UT. While medication can be helpful for some, it does not treat the underlying cause which can lead to dependence on medication. At Happy Brain Physical Therapy, I address the source of the headache, rather than just alleviating their severity. Post-traumatic headaches will not go away on their own, but they WILL go away by treating the root of the problem.
Common things I felt after my own concussion and things I hear from clients are “I feel like there is a band around my head.” “I feel like there is pressure in my eyes.” “I feel pain and pressure at the base of my head and up one side of my head.” If this sounds like you check out my online course or schedule an appointment for in-person treatment.
Headaches resulting from concussion or other types of traumatic brain injury are often referred to as post traumatic headaches. 47-95% of people with concussion aka mild TBI and 20-38% of people with moderate to severe TBI report headaches.
What does a concussion headache feel like?
Concussion headaches can have a feeling of tension, tightness, and/or pressure. People describe these headaches as though there is a clamp tightening around their head or as though their head is a balloon that is being blown up. Often, the tension starts in the neck and spreads through the back of the head and up to the top of the head.
With headaches caused by eye strain, the pressure might start behind or between the eyes and spread to the back of the head. A sharp, stabbing pain might be indicative of a migrainous headache. These often feel similar to a normal migraine, but increase in frequency and intensity after a concussion. Since there isn’t just one type of post-traumatic headache and the headaches vary from person to person, concussion headaches are frequently mistreated or medication is prescribed to mask the pain.
For people who were advised to rest until their symptoms disappear or that they “are just going to get headaches” their lives have been extremely impacted. Many people have seen multiple doctors and been prescribed various medications. Others feel like their concerns have been dismissed and they have stopped looking for a solution or didn’t know there is one. No matter the scenario, this can feel extremely frustrating and debilitating. I hear you.
At Happy Brain Physical Therapy, I address the source of headaches and focus on treating the underlying cause. If you’re experiencing post-concussion symptoms (such as headaches) that won’t resolve, you’re not alone. Talk to me about in-person and online treatment options.
I work with people whose concussion-related physical and cognitive impairments did not resolve with time. Treating the underlying issue is paramount to successful headache and other concussion related symptom treatment.
Understanding the Symptoms and Treatment for Concussion-Induced Headaches
Vision problems- Symptoms related to vision problems include blurred vision, double vision (diplopia), and eye pain. The strain created by trying to overcompensate for any new vision issues leads to tough, pulsing headaches. These headaches generally involve the area around the eyes; your eyes may feel like they are inflamed or pained. Learn more about vision therapy
Vestibular issues- Your vestibular system helps your brain to understand your position in space. Your body, vision, vestibular system, and brain all work together to help you move without feeling dizzy. If a concussion affects your vestibular system, you might experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, balance issues, or spatial disorientation. Learn more about the vestibular system
Autonomic Nervous System- The autonomic nervous system controls heart rate, breathing, temperature regulation, pupil dilation (think light sensitivity), and many of the other bodily functions we don’t think about that are necessary to keeping us alive. Headaches caused by autonomic nervous system dysfunction are often described as starting in the back of the neck and spreading up around the back of the head to the temples like a crown. This sensation is caused by gradual blood flow buildup and muscle tension from neck muscles. Jaw tension or increased teeth grinding is common. Pain or pressure around the nose and cheekbones (where the sinuses are related) are also common. Congestion may or may not be present.
Learn more about the autonomic nervous system here.
Headaches from post-concussion syndrome do not resolve unless treated. Want our help in understanding your headaches? Sign up for a 15 min phone consultation
Post-traumatic headaches after a concussion can be challenging, but understanding their causes and symptoms is the first step toward effective management. With proper concussion physical therapy you can find relief.
To learn more about what is a concussion, concussion management strategies, and the specific physical therapy exercises you should be doing to heal your brain and body, visit The Concussion Solution: Master Program. This online program provides a systematic approach to help people recover from post concussion symptoms. You can also visit our clinic in Park City, Utah for in-person physical therapy.
If you would like to learn more about treating your concussion symptoms, please call us: 203 822 2098 or email us at annie@happybrainpt.com
