A tension headache is a condition involving pain or discomfort in
the head, scalp, or neck, usually associated with muscle tightness
in these areas.  Tension headaches are one of the most common
forms of headaches. They may occur at any age,but are most
common in adults and adolescents. The pain of tension headaches

is usually described as between mild and moderate, and happen two
or three times more frequently than migraine headaches.

 
If a headache occurs two or more times a week for several months
or longer, the condition is considered cronic.


Tension headaches can occur when the patient also has a migraine. Tension headaches occur when neck and scalp muscles become tense, or contract. The muscle contractions can be a response to stress, depression, a  head injury, or anxiety.


The headache pain may be described as:

    • Dull, pressure-like
    • A tight band or vise on the head
    • All over (not just in one point or one side)
    • Worse in the scalp, temples, or back of the neck
    • Upper back and neck pain and stiffness are also associated with tension headaches

The pain may occur as an insolated event, constantly, or daily. Pain may last for 30 minutes to 7 days. It may be triggered by or get worse with stress, fatigue, noise, or glare. A headache that is mild to moderate, not accompanied by other symptoms, and responds to home treatment within a few hours may not need further examination or testing. If the headache is severe, persistent, or if other symptoms happen with the headache a health care provider should be consulted 


 Some common causes of these headaches include:

    • Problems within the neck
    • Spasms in the neck and upper back muscular
    • After head or neck trauma, i.e. whiplash

Treatment: Chiropractic adjustments seem to help suffers of tension headaches. This is especially

true when the muscles at the base of the skull at the back of the head tighten and spasm. An

adjustment may relieve the stiffness and the tension pain.






The information provided on this site is not a substitute for professional medical advice,  

  examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health care

  provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.  If you think

  you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.



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