A tension headache basically refers to pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck that is generally associated with muscle tension in these areas. It is the type that occurs in relation to constant or periodic emotional conflicts. This condition is very prevalent and can be disabling. Published estimates of the prevalence of tension headaches vary in a wide range from 1.3% to 65% in men and 2.7% to 86% in women. They can occur at any age, but are more common in adults and teens.

It usually occurs on both sides of the head. They often start at the back of the head and spread forward. Tension headache pain is generally described as a feeling of heaviness, pressure, or tightness that is constant rather than throbbing. If they occur 15 or more days in a month over several months, they are considered chronic tension headaches. Chronic types feel more like head throbbing with more severe pain felt most of the time.

Muscle tension and contraction in the shoulders, neck, and head are associated with tension-type headaches. Usually this tension is the result of emotional stress, although injuries can also become a factor of muscle contraction. It’s normal for muscles to contract when you’re threatened, irritated, or angry. Although, if work or family life creates a constant source of stress that you cannot counteract, muscle tension can become chronic, which can lead to uneven stresses on the skeletal structure of the body and changes in normal posture and movement to compensate. . These misalignments result in more muscle tension and contraction that can cause headaches.

Tension headaches can be a sign that you may be doing something in your daily life that is causing stress on your body, such as not eating enough, dehydration, poor posture, or eyestrain. Physical stress can also cause tension headaches. This includes activities such as prolonged manual work or staying in one position for a long time, such as sitting at a desk or computer, reading, or playing video games. Staying in a cold place or sleeping in an uncomfortable position can also be some of the triggers. However, physical activities do not usually make pain worse.

Although tension headaches can be painful, they are not associated with structural changes in the brain and are rarely a sign of a more serious condition. Pain relievers can help, but overuse of them can cause complications, such as rebound headaches, which are headaches that keep coming back. A combination of lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and traditional and complementary therapies, such as chiropractic, can help reduce pain.

Chiropractic care uses a holistic approach that can successfully provide permanent headache relief. It has been shown to be very effective in treating tension and migraine headaches, as well as other musculoskeletal problems.

Chiropractic adjustments, when combined with other therapies, such as trigger point therapy and massage, can relax stressed muscles and correct misalignments. Chronic headache patients often get relief with just a few visits to the chiropractor.

Even if your headache is gone, continuing to receive chiropractic adjustments is essential to help your body function more efficiently. Over time, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your chiropractor will help you stay healthy and enjoy a pain-free life.