What are Tension Headaches?
If you have ever struggled with a tension headache, you know exactly what I’m about to describe. It often begins with a tight feeling around the forehead, slowly transforming into a light throb at the bottom back of your head or behind your eyes, usually on one side. The beating slowly seems to creep, spreading to your neck, trap area, and shoulder. It feels like it all tightens up, and frequently, the pain gradually becomes unbearable.
What Causes Tension Headaches, and What’s the Difference Between Tension Headaches and Migraines?
Truthfully, there is no specific cause for tension headaches. However, people often report tension headaches popping up when dealing with stress, anxiety, not resting or sleeping enough, or poor posture. The significant differences between tension headaches and migraines are that tension headaches typically do not cause nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, blurry vision, or muscle weakness.
How Do You Get Rid of Tension Headaches?
Some natural remedies can help ease the frequency of tension headaches without relying on prescription or other over-the-counter medications.
Chiropractic Care - Regular chiropractic care is effective in helping to manage the severity and frequency of tension headaches.
Release Tension with a Lacrosse or Tennis Ball - Using SMR (self-myofascial release) rolling techniques, you can place the ball between your trap muscles and a wall. With gentle pressure, move the ball and hold it for about 20–30 seconds, and continue to move it around until you’ve treated the whole area.
Stretching/Yoga - Implementing stretches and yoga into your daily routine helps ease muscle tightness. Still, it can also help boost your mood and posture. These are all good things to help you manage and avoid tension headaches!
Hot Bath Soaks - Soaking in a hot bath can help relax your muscles and mind and ease stress and tension.
Drinking More Water - Often, we don’t realize how easy it is to become dehydrated, which can cause various problems such as headaches. Stay hydrated, especially if you’re active or in a warmer climate.
Use Ice Packs - The age-old trick to helping soothe tension headaches after they’ve already grabbed hold of you. 15-20 minute intervals, waiting until your skin reaches average temperature before you apply it once again, should help give you some relief.
I hope these tips help bring you some relief! Let us know!
