Share:

One of the most common headache types, tension headache pain can be severe and sometimes mistaken for migraine pain. Tension headaches are typically not indicative of serious health issues and may be treated by a chiropractor. Learn more about these headaches below, including typical symptoms. 

Causes and Symptoms

While the cause of tension headaches is still unknown, health experts cite several potential triggers. Poor posture, eye strain, and muscle tension in the head and neck are considered common reasons for these headaches. There is also evidence that tension headaches occur because of hyperexcitable peripheral afferent neuron activation, or nerve cells that send bodily pain receptor information to the brain. 

chiropractor

Other tension headache triggers include temporomandibular joint disorders that cause head and neck pain, insomnia, sinus infections, teeth grinding, dehydration, skipping meals, fatigue, and stress. Common tension headache symptoms include feeling like there is a “tight band around the forehead,” dull head pain, fatigue or irritability, forehead and scalp tenderness, and problems focusing. 

Treatment 

Episodic tension headaches last 30 minutes to one week, while chronic tension headache symptoms can last hours or even months. Treatment typically starts with hydrating and eating nutritious food. OTC pain medication provides temporary relief, with doctors also prescribing prescription pain meds for those with chronic headaches. 

Relieving tension headache pain can require looking away from screens more often and utilizing stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises. The local chiropractor can help relieve tension headaches by gently realigning the spine, since any bulging discs put pressure on nearby nerves and send pain signals to the brain. 

A chiropractor might also provide other pain management services, such as heat therapy and ice packs. Lifestyle tips from this pain specialist can prove helpful as well, including tips regarding correct posture and stress management.

 

For tension headache relief, make an appointment at Back to Health Chiropractic in Florence, KY. Serving rural communities since 1995, the chiropractors at this practice offer a full suite of services and are affiliated with massage therapists. Call (859) 746-2222 today to make an appointment or visit the practice online for more information.

tracking