Tension Headaches: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Care

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, often described as a feeling of tightness around the head, similar to wearing a tight band. These headaches can vary in severity and duration, affecting daily life. There are two types of tension headaches: episodic and chronic.

Types of Tension Headaches

• Episodic Tension Headaches: These last anywhere from half an hour to a week and can recur up to two weeks each month.
• Chronic Tension Headaches: These are continuous, often lasting for hours, and if you experience this band-like sensation for more than 15 days a month for at least three consecutive months, you may suffer from chronic tension headaches.

Causes of Tension Headaches

Tension headaches can stem from various causes, both emotional and physical. They often correlate with depression, anxiety, and emotional stress. On the physical side, they can be triggered by muscle strain, such as a neck injury or abnormalities in the cervical vertebrae. In some cases, eye strain in children can also lead to these headaches.

Symptoms of Tension Headaches

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent dull ache in the head
• Tenderness in shoulder and neck muscles
• Sensitive scalp
• Tightness around the forehead, sides, and back of the head
• Worsening pain as the day goes on

Treatment Options for Tension Headaches

Treatment typically focuses on both preventing and alleviating the pain of tension headaches. Options include:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription-strength pain relievers
• Temperature therapy: Applying a heating pad or ice pack can help provide relief.
• Acupuncture or massage for muscle relaxation
• Preventive medications, including antidepressants, muscle relaxants, and anticonvulsants, though these come with potential side effects.

For those with anxiety or stress-related tension headaches, calming activities such as yoga, meditation, and spending time in nature may offer relief. Regular aerobic exercise can ease depression and may also reduce headache pain.

Chiropractic Care for Tension Headaches

Chiropractic care is a drug-free alternative for managing tension headaches. Improving posture and addressing muscle tension in the neck can help alleviate the pain. Chiropractors can evaluate your spinal alignment and provide manual adjustments to improve posture, reduce muscle strain, and target the cervical vertebrae, which are often implicated in tension headaches.

Chiropractors may also recommend ergonomics, relaxation techniques, and specific exercises that help relieve the tension in the neck and shoulders that often trigger headaches. Chiropractic care offers pain relief without the side effects commonly associated with medications.

If you suffer from tension headaches, consider chiropractic care as part of your treatment plan. Call our clinic today, and let us help you find relief and improve your quality of life.