Tension headaches: causes and treatments

If you’re someone who regularly suffers with tension headaches, we know it can make life difficult. Let’s take a look at what might be causing your headaches, and what can be done to help…

Tension headaches are one of the most common types of headaches, often causing persistent discomfort that can affect daily life. Tension headaches are typically characterised by a dull, aching pain around the forehead, temples, or the back of the head and neck.

While tension headaches can be frustrating and tiring, various treatments - including physiotherapy- can help relieve and prevent them.

If you’re someone who regularly suffers with tension headaches, we know it can make life difficult. Let’s take a look at what might be causing your headaches, and what can be done to help… 

What causes tension headaches?

Tension headaches are usually triggered by muscle tension and stress, but several factors can contribute to their onset, including:

Poor posture: Sitting for long periods, particularly at a desk, can lead to muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, increasing headache frequency. With so many of us working at desks for long hours each day, tension headaches are becoming a more common complaint.

Stress and anxiety: High-stress levels can cause subconscious muscle clenching, particularly in the neck and jaw, which leads to tension headaches. 

Eye strain: Extended screen time or reading without breaks can contribute to tension headaches. 

Dehydration and diet: Lack of water, caffeine withdrawal, or skipping meals can sometimes trigger headaches.

Sleep issues: Poor sleep quality or an incorrect pillow can strain neck muscles and contribute to tension headaches.

How can physiotherapy help with tension headaches?

Many people don’t realise that physiotherapy can be an effective solution for managing and preventing tension headaches. A physiotherapist can help by:

1. Addressing postural issues
Poor posture is a leading cause of tension headaches. A physiotherapist will assess your posture and provide corrective exercises to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.

2. Releasing muscle tension
Tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back can contribute to headaches. Physiotherapy techniques such as manual therapy, massage, and trigger point release can help relax these muscles and alleviate pain.

3. Improving neck mobility
Restricted movement in the neck can lead to tension build-up. Physiotherapy treatments, including gentle stretches and joint mobilisation, can help improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.

4. Stress management and relaxation techniques
A physiotherapist can teach breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and stress relieving movements to reduce tension in the body.

5. Ergonomic advice
If you spend long hours at a desk, a physiotherapist can provide workstation advice to improve your seating position, screen height, and desk setup, helping to prevent tension headaches caused by poor posture.

Other treatment options for tension headaches

In addition to physiotherapy, tension headaches may be managed with:

• Over-the-counter pain relief (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen)
• Heat or cold therapy (such as a warm compress on the neck)
• Regular breaks from screens and prolonged sitting
• Hydration and a balanced diet
• Mindfulness, yoga, or gentle exercise

Find relief from tension headaches at Bramhall Physio

If you’re struggling with frequent tension headaches, physiotherapy could be the key to long term relief. At Bramhall Physio, we specialise in postural correction, muscle tension relief, and rehabilitation techniques to help you manage and prevent headaches effectively.

Lucie Winstanley is our specialist physiotherapist when it comes to headaches, dizziness,  vertigo, and BPPV, and she is a member of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists Interested in Vestibular Rehabilitation (ACPIVR).

Get in touch today with our physio clinic in Bramhall, Cheshire, and take the first step towards a headache-free life!