Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are characterized by a band of tightness, pain or pressure around the forehead, temples, and back of the head, often starting as tightness in the shoulder and neck region, gradually progressing to a severe headache that can disrupt every aspect of your busy day. These headaches can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days, dramatically decreasing your energy levels and quality of life.

What causes Tension Headaches?

These headaches occur when neck and scalp muscles become tense, or contract. The muscle contractions can be a response to stress, depression, anxiety or fatigue.

Most of us have areas of tightness or trigger points in our neck, shoulders, and upper back that serve as reminders we are entering into a cycle of muscle tension, possibly due to stress, fatigue or negative emotions. Often we automatically rub and squeeze the muscles of our upper back and neck in an attempt to relieve this tension. Our stress levels are increased by thinking negative and unproductive thoughts, simply because we are unconciously repeating old neural patterns and mental scripts.

What are the symptoms/effects of a Tension Headache?

Symptoms of a tension headache may include the following:

Dull, pressure-like sensation in the forehead, temples & back of the head
A tight band or vise on or around the head
Tension & tightness in the upper back, neck and shoulders
Difficulty sleeping
Increased symptoms with fatigue, stress or noise

Physiotherapy treatment for Tension Headaches

If the above scenario sounds familiar to you, physiotherapy advice and treatment could help you take charge of your health and possibly prevent future recurrences.

We are only too aware of the overwhelming disruption and anxiety this problem can cause to your every day life and we can help you to overcome it.

Physiotherapy treatment may include: