Tension Headache Relief: Techniques for Soothing Pain

Find Lasting Tension Headache Relief With A Comprehensive Physical Therapy Program

Many of us have experienced a headache at some point in our lives with varying levels of pain and intensity. Usually, when a headache strikes, we reach for a bottle of over-the-counter pain relief that can offer temporary tension headache relief. But what if your headaches become frequent? What if pain medicine isn’t enough to manage them? Enter physical therapy for

Want to learn more about the relationship between manual therapy and headaches? Keep reading!

A Good Foundation For True Tension Headache Relief

The first step in finding lasting tension headache relief is by first understanding the pain itself. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, often described as a dull, aching sensation that wraps around the head like a tight band. The pain may be mild to moderate and is usually felt on both sides of the head. For many, tension headaches originate in the neck, radiating upwards.

Effective tension headache relief begins with identifying the underlying cause. While the exact cause of tension headaches isn’t always clear, several factors can contribute to their onset and severity.

Common Factors Contributing to Tension Headaches

Muscle Tension

• Stress, poor posture, and repetitive movements can lead to muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp, triggering tension headaches.

Stress

• Emotional and physical stress can be a significant trigger for tension headaches.

Fatigue

• Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can contribute to tension headaches.

Other Factors

• Eyestrain, hunger, and certain medications may also play a role.

Anyone can experience a tension headache, but some individuals may be more prone to them due to certain risk factors.

Risk Factors

Gender

• Women are more likely to experience tension headaches than men.

Age

• Tension headaches are most common in adults, although they can occur at any age.

History of Headaches

• If you have a family history of headaches or have experienced them in the past, you may be at higher risk.

Personalized Tension Headache Relief

An accountant in her 30s came TOP Physical Therapy seeking tension headache relief that would last longer than an over-the-counter medication. She reported experiencing frequent, moderate headaches, often accompanied by neck pain and stiffness. The headaches were significantly impacting her work and quality of life.

During her initial evaluation, our physical therapist conducted a comprehensive assessment. She described her headaches as a dull, persistent ache radiating from the base of her skull to her forehead. She also reported experiencing tightness and tenderness in her neck and shoulder muscles. Based on Sarah’s history and assessment findings, her therapist developed a personalized treatment plan to address her tension headache relief goals. The plan included a combination of manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education.

Manual Therapy

• Techniques, such as soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release, were utilized to address muscle tightness and trigger points in her neck and shoulders. These techniques aimed to improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate pain.

Therapeutic Exercises

• Strengthening and mobility exercises to build the neck and shoulder muscles and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, to help manage stress and reduce muscle tension.

She diligently attended her physical therapy sessions and practiced her home exercise program. With consistency, she began to notice a significant decrease in the frequency and intensity of her tension headaches. She reported feeling less neck pain and stiffness, and her overall well-being improved.

Tension Headache Relief With TOP Physical Therapy

Don’t let your headaches get in the way of living your best life. Contact us today for an appointment and start your personalized tension headache relief program with our natural, lasting, and comprehensive physical therapy techniques.

Call today!