Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and while most Americans have suffered from them their cause is generally not known. Also known as stress headaches, the 90% of people who have had one describe it as a dull pain that surrounds the head usually right above the eyes. Generally these headaches come on slowly and can increase with intensity – sometimes lasting days or even weeks. Talk about a pain! What can you do to relieve the pain? And, how can you ensure these headaches aren’t a common occurrence? Below we will outline how to address chronic tension headaches and tips and tricks to get rid of that pain.
Causes of Tension Headaches
Is widely believed that tension headaches actually originate in the neck. Unlike migraines that is more of a “brain ache”, tension headaches are caused by muscles in the neck and jaw that are too tight. The sensitive points in the muscles are tight and cause pain through tension – where these headaches get their name. In addition to tight muscles, anxiety, stress, physical exertion and poor posture can all lead to tension headaches. In most people symptoms present as a feeling of pressure across the forehead or scalp tenderness. More severe symptoms include muscle aches, inability to focus, and increased sensitivity to light and sound.
Cures
Many times tension headaches can be treated with over-the-counter medications. If tension headaches become chronic it is wise to visit your health care provider to determine if stronger medication is needed or see if there is an underlying condition causing the headaches.
Aside from medication, there are numerous natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can be employed to keep the headaches at bay. First, relax! Tension headaches had to get their name somewhere. Lay down in a cool, dark environment (and don’t look at your phone!) and just rest. If you can tell the headache is caused by muscles in the neck, apply a warm compress. The warm temperature should provide relief to the muscles which in turn should result in the headache going away. Ensure that physical exercise is part of your lifestyle. Building in strength training and stretching will ensure back and core muscles are fully supporting the weight of you body, and you are not overly relying on neck muscles. While it may be common to do strengthening exercises for your core – don’t forget about your neck! Also, remember to stretch. In addition to preventing tightness in the muscles, stretching can prove to be relaxing. our. Finally, check your posture. Being hunched over a computer all day can be detrimental to the muscles in your neck and back. The typical position with your head forward at your desk is a leading cause of tension headaches. While you are improving your posture, take the time to ensure all the ergonomics of your desk are favorable to neck and back health.
Chiropractic Adjustments
If the pain doesn’t go away with at-home remedies, visiting a chiropractor should be your next stop. If a spinal bone is out of place, it could press on a nerve and cause nerve interference. Then this occurs the communication between the brain and spine are disrupted, and the mis-fires between the two can cause tension headaches. Chiropractors are trained to look for this issue as well as other compounding issues such as sports injuries or underlying chronic conditions. One of the benefits of a spinal adjustment is that it has been proven to have the same outcome as pharmaceuticals, without the drug side-effects. This is an good option if you are looking for an all-natural solution to headache pain.
Tension headaches have the potential to sideline you from sports and work obligations. Ensuring you reduce stress and create a healthy lifestyle should help to ward off headaches. However, if they continue to plague you and disrupt normal activities, experts and Green Oak Spine and Sport can offer you treatment options to fully rid yourself of pain.
