Finding Relief from Tension Headaches: How Physical Therapy Can Help

Happy Friday PT Pulse Readers,

This week, we’re focusing on an issue that affects many of us—tension headaches. If you find yourself dealing with these headaches morning, noon, and night, you’re not alone. Tension headaches, often triggered by stress, impact a significant portion of the population. But there’s good news: physical therapy can provide relief.

This Week’s Insight: Understanding and Relieving Tension Headaches

What Is A Tension Headache?

Tension headaches start in the muscles of the neck or shoulders, not in the head. When these muscles become tight and go into spasm, they pull on the dura mater, a pain-sensitive membrane near the base of the skull, causing the headache.

Common Causes:

• Emotional stress: Chronic neck tightness from stress.
• Repetitive motion: Overuse from work or sports activities.
• Text neck: Strain from leaning forward to look at your smartphone.
• Weak neck muscles: Easily fatigued muscles.
• Secondary pain issues: Conditions like arthritis in the cervical spine.

Physical Therapy: A Solution for Tension Headaches

Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief, but they don’t address the root causes of tension headaches. Physical therapy can provide a longer-lasting solution. Here’s how:

1. Strengthening Exercises: Improve neck muscle strength to reduce strain.
2. Flexibility Exercises: Enhance range of motion.
3. Manual Therapy: Alleviate muscle tension.
4. Heat/Ice Therapy: Reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Postural Advice: Correct bad habits causing "text neck."
6. Stress Reduction: Techniques like yoga and lifestyle changes.
7. Ergonomic Advice: Optimize your workspace to reduce strain.

Testimonial Spotlight: Ken B.

"I have been to the Lincolnton branch for several injuries from an accident at work. Everyone from the front desk to the therapist is very thoughtful and professional. I wouldn’t go anywhere else."

Take Action Today

Tension headaches shouldn’t hold you back from enjoying life. Physical therapy can help you find relief and get back to your routine. Contact our office today to learn more.

P.S. Exciting News! Compleat Rehab is launching its own LinkedIn Company page the first Friday in July, separate from our sister company Compleat Kidz. Follow us for the latest updates and tips on health and wellness!

To health and happiness,

Your PT Pulse Team