What are Tension Type Headaches?
Tension type headaches (TTH) are one of the most prevalent types of headache. Unfortunately, they affect a significant portion of the population globally. When experienced, they feel like a dull, aching, type of headache that may wrap around the head. In fact, some patients describe it feeling like a tight band is compressing their skull. Unlike migraines that have symptoms like nausea, noise or light sensitivity, and visual manifestations, tension headaches do not have additional symptoms other than pain. Overall, frequent tension headaches could decrease one’s quality of life.
What causes them?
The exact cause of tension headaches isn’t known, but it has been linked to several factors including stress, posture, anxiety, muscle tension, poor sleep and more. The headaches may be be episodic as well as chronic, depending on the amount of time it is experienced in a month. To clarify, episodic means it is experienced for <15 days in a month, and chronic means it is experiences >15 days in a month for 3 months.
How is it diagnosed?
Your health provider will ask you questions about your medical history, triggers to the headache, type of symptoms, patterns and frequency of headaches, and more. As a result, this will help them rule in or out other causes of and other types of headaches.
Additionally, TTH requires a comprehensive physical assessment of the head and neck muscles to check for areas of tenderness, muscle tension and trigger points which are commonly associated with TTH.
How are Tension Type Headaches treated?
Physical therapy management for TTH is a comprehensive and effective approach. Firstly, patient education is a key factor in every case. It is important for patients to learn about their condition, factors that may trigger their headaches, and strategies for managing their symptoms. Additionally, other techniques may include:
- Myofacial release technique and other manual therapies in the cervical structures
- Research suggests cold packs can have a positive effect on relieving pain and discomfort
- Stretching and strengthening of cervical muscles
- Postural correction techniques
- Lifestyle and stress management advice
Need help?
Look for PhysioNow! Whether you are looking for relief from neck pain, stiffness, or headaches, we can help you. Our expert team of Registered Physiotherapists, Manual Osteopaths, and Registered Massage Therapists are all equipped with the skills to take care of you. Locations from Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, and Etobicoke, book with PhysioNow today for your first assessment and treatment!
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