Tension-Type Headaches
When your head feels like it is wearing a hat two sizes too small.
What is it?
Tension-type headache commonly produces mild-to-moderate pressing or tightening pain on both sides of the head. It is not simply a diagnosis of “tight muscles”; pain processing, stress, sleep and muscle tenderness can all play roles.
What causes it?
Triggers can include stress, poor sleep, prolonged screen time, changes in activity and sensitivity in neck or scalp muscles. Headaches can also coexist with jaw pain and migraine.
How do we distinguish it from other conditions?
We ask about frequency, medication use, headache characteristics, sleep and red flags. Neck and jaw examination can identify relevant musculoskeletal contributors without assuming posture is the sole cause.
How is it treated?
Physiotherapy and chiropractic care may combine neck and shoulder rehabilitation, exercise, manual treatment, ergonomic coaching and headache education. RMT provides targeted work for neck, shoulder and scalp muscle discomfort. Osteopathic manual practitioners can address relevant neck and thoracic mobility restrictions. Acupuncture is an evidence-supported option for some patients with frequent tension-type headaches. Relaxation strategies, sleep support and clinical counselling may be useful when stress is a major contributor.
When should you seek treatment?
Seek assessment if headaches recur or interfere with life. A sudden thunderclap headache, headache with new neurological symptoms, fever and neck stiffness, or a substantial new headache pattern needs urgent medical assessment.
Feel better. Together.