By Dean Baldwin, Remedial Massage Therapist
Know Your Headache
There are many different types of headaches and the most common is the Tension Headache. In this Blog we will outline what a Tension Headache feels like, what could cause it, how to manage it and how to prevent one from occurring!
So what is a Tension Headache you might ask?
Tension Headaches are often felt as an even pain or pressure that spreads and squeezes around the head, much like a headband. This particular type of headache can be intermittent and can last from anywhere up to 7 days to 6 months in chronic cases if left untreated.
What are the most common causes for a Tension Headache?
- Stress
- Lack of sleep
- Neck and shoulder muscular or joint tension
- Postural imbalances, most commonly prolonged desk work!!!
- Temporomandibular Joint (jaw) syndrome
- Previous neck injuries
What are the treatment and management options for Tension Headaches?
Massage is an excellent treatment option and is very effective with removing this unwanted discomfort. A physical examination would be required to identify what tissues are at fault through Range of Motion testing and palpation (touching the muscles or joints). Following the testing, specific treatment modalities would be used such as trigger point therapy and gentle stretching to relax and soothe soft tissue tension. For this type of condition a minimum of 45 minutes or 1 hour treatment time would be recommended.
What are some effective home remedies to relieve my tension headache?
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Self massage to the neck area
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Use of a heat pack to increase blood flow and reduce pain
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Take regular breaks away from a seated position
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Regular exercise
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Stretching of the neck and shoulder regions
How can we help you?
At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy our goal is to get you moving pain free as soon as possible.
But, we also want you to actually move better and live a healthier, more active and fulfilling life!
If your sports, fitness training or work has been wearing your body down, book in with one of our physiotherapists or expert massage therapists so we can help you reduce your pain or stiffness.
If you are showing some signs of this condition or simply want help prevent this from happening in the future then book in with one of our highly experienced team today!
You can make an appointment by calling or booking online.