What is a Tension Headache? – Sarah Fischer

What is a Tension Headache? – Sarah Fischer

The dreaded tension headache. Most get it from time to time, you can feel it building as the day goes on , then by the end of the day, if not sooner,  there it is… that tension headache.

The path of the headache can vary depending on what muscles are being affected. Most people have that same spot every time that leads to chronic tension headaches which can be hard to avoid depending on what the aggravating activity is, such as work.  So it’s important to be aware of what is causing them and to try to do your best to prevent them from flaring up as much as possible.

Often times with work, it’s due to posture whether you are standing all day or sitting at a desk.  As we begin to fatigue the shoulders tend to roll forward and we get a forward head posture causing the muscles in the sub-occiptal region to become short, tight and strained. As we are all guilty of not stretching, it should be part of your daily routine.

To stretch the sub-occiptal region, you can be seated straight, then bring your chin down and in towards your neck (as if to make a “double chin”) once in this position hold for 30 seconds then slowly release, try this a couple times a day. Another important area is through your upper trapezius muscle, to stretch this area you simply bring your ear towards your shoulder until you feel a comfortable stretch, again hold for 30 seconds then slowly release and stretch the other side as well. For some, tension headaches are not a common occurrence, but for others it’s part of their day, every day.

Living with chronic pain, whether its headaches or back pain, it can really start to wear a person down, mentally and physically. If tension headaches are part of your life a little more than most, try getting in to see a registered massage therapist to have them assess and treat your problem areas and provide you with some home care exercise and advice to help ease the discomfort. We dont want to see anyone in pain, so we always try and do our best for our clients who are suffering with pain, whether it be chronic or temporary.

Don’t put it off any longer; make yourself a priority. The therapists at Adica Massage Clinic have years of experience and are more than happy to take new clients and to address any concern you have about massage and your fatigued muscles. We have a massage to fit your needs, whether it be a therapeutic massage, deep tissue massage, pregnancy massage or even a 4 handed massage!