There are many different types of headaches the most common being migraines, tension headaches and cluster headaches. In physical therapy we tend to address tension headaches, which usually start at the base of the skull and wrap around to the side of the temples. Tight neck muscles, poor neck mobility, and bad posture can lead to tension type headaches.  Forward head posture puts increased tension on the neck muscles and adds to stress on the spine that can lead to headaches. Sitting at the computer, reading or driving for long periods of time can lead to forward head posture. Daily stress is also a contributing factor because it can cause increased tension throughout the neck muscles. 

Our sense of balance comes from three different systems working together:

1.  The vestibular system (inner ear) gives us feedback on our head position and movements.

2.  The visual system allows us to see where we are in relation to our environment.

3.  The proprioceptors, which are located in our muscles, tendons, and joints, give us feedback on where our body is in space.