7 Natural Treatments For Tension Headaches

May 26, 2020
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache that people experience. It can range from mild to severe and is often described as feeling like a tight band surrounding the head. People regularly attribute headaches to stress, but there’s no official headache classification of "stress headaches." Life can be stressful from day to day with busy home, work, and social schedules, and stress certainly plays a role in making any headache worse.

Most people who experience and suffer from tension headaches have episodic headaches. These occur one or two times per month on average. However, tension headaches can also be chronic.

Who Is Prone To Tension Headaches?

Tension headaches don't tend to discriminate, men and women, young and old, are all equally at risk. The most significant cause is feeling overwhelmed or highly stressed. This leaves those with high-stress jobs, those that work long hours, those with overwhelming family life, and also those with depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders more prone to tension headaches.

Are Tension Headaches And Migraines The Same?

  • Tension headache. Up to 78% of Americans will suffer from them at some point as they are the most common form of headache. Symptoms include pain on both sides of your head, tight pressure rather than throbbing, feeling like your head is in a vice or has a band around it, and possibly have soreness in temples, neck, and shoulders. The pain isn't usually classified as severe.
  • Migraines. Migraine is also common but occurs far less frequently than a tension headache. The pain associated with a migraine headache is different from tension-type headache and can help determine which type of headache a person is experiencing. Symptoms include moderate to severe throbbing pain (often worse on one side of your head), the pain increases with physical activity, a sensitivity to sound, light or smell. You may experience an aura (flashing lights or wavy lines), nausea and have facial or arm tingling just before the migraine begins. Pain in temples, around eyes, jaw, or neck may also be experienced.

7 Natural Treatments For Tension Headaches

  1. Stay Hydrated. Dehydration can increase headache severity, so drink eight glasses of water each day.
  2. Exercise. Physical activity releases brain chemicals (endorphins) that are natural painkillers. Exercise also leads to improved sleep.
  3. Gentle Stretching. Yoga and tai chi both blend relaxation, breathing, and stretching to reduce levels of stress.
  4. Proper Sleep. Improve your sleep by minimizing daytime naps, avoiding caffeine or alcohol close to bedtime, being active, and avoiding electronic devices before bed.
  5. Massage. Whether you prefer a light touch or deep-tissue work, massage helps relieve built-up muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, and scalp.
  6. Mindfulness. Using your breath as a guide to keeping your thoughts in the present can help reduce overall stress and pain.
  7. Chiropractic Care. Chiropractic adjustments are very effective for the treatment of tension headaches, especially headaches that are caused by muscle tension which then misaligns the spine. For some people, aligning the spine also leads to a lower level of stress. Routine chiropractic care can keep the spine aligned, keeping these headaches from coming back at all.

The Takeaway

Tension headaches are experienced by millions of people and while they may not be severe, your daily activities are often affected. If you suffer from tension-type headaches, try the natural treatments listed above.

Contact us today! Family Chiropractic Plus is dedicated to your overall health and well-being. Which is why we offer regular chiropractic adjustments in order to restore your body’s natural state of optimal health, while also providing it with the support it needs to heal from any injury, big or small. 
Chiropractic Combined With Inversion Table Therapy
By Louise Blankenship 19 Apr, 2024
Are you suffering from back pain or seeking relief from muscle tension? If so, chiropractic combined with inversion table therapy might be the solution you've been searching for.
Enhance Athletic Performance and Speed Recovery Time with Sports Chiropractic
By Louise Blankenship 12 Apr, 2024
In this sports chiropractic guide, we will explore the various aspects of sports chiropractic, including its benefits, techniques, and the role it plays in promoting optimal athletic function.
Myofascial Trigger Points
01 Apr, 2024
Myofascial trigger points, often simply called trigger points, are localized, tender spots in muscles that can cause significant pain and discomfort. These spots are sensitive and can produce sharp, shooting pain or a dull ache in the muscle and even in seemingly unrelated parts of the body, a phenomenon known as referred pain.
How Chiropractic Rehabilitation Works
By Louise Blankenship 01 Apr, 2024
At Family Chiropractic Plus, we understand that rehabilitation is essential not only for recovery from injuries but also for preventing recurring issues and enhancing overall physical function. This comprehensive guide explores the depths of chiropractic rehabilitation and how it can significantly impact your health and well-being.
The Link Between Chiropractic Therapy and Acid Reflux
By Louise Blankenship 19 Feb, 2024
Heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), affects millions of people worldwide. While chiropractic therapy and acid reflux may seem unrelated, there is a surprising connection between the two. In this article, we will explore how chiropractic care can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms and improve overall digestive health.
Chiropractic Care for Diabetes: A Revolutionary Approach to Managing Symptoms
By Louise Blankenship 19 Feb, 2024
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional medical treatments for diabetes focus on insulin therapy and lifestyle modifications, there is a revolutionary approach that is gaining recognition - chiropractic care. In this article, we will explore the connection between chiropractic care and diabetes management, and how chiropractic treatment can improve the quality of life for individuals with diabetes.
Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment for Prep Sports Athletes
By Louise Blankenship 14 Feb, 2024
Are you an athlete looking to enhance your performance on the field? If so, you may be surprised to learn that chiropractic care can be a game-changer. In this article, we explore the powerful benefits of chiropractic treatment for prep sports athletes.
How to Perform Self-Checks
By Louise Blankenship 14 Feb, 2024
Are you looking for ways to incorporate self-checks into your regular health routine? Look no further! In this article, we will explore how self-checks can be a valuable addition to your overall well-being, especially when combined with chiropractic care.
How Chiropractic Care Supports the Body's Natural Healing Process
By Louise Blankenship 11 Jan, 2024
Discover 'How Chiropractic Care Supports the Body's Natural Healing Process' blog for expert insights into holistic health, spinal alignment, and wellness.
The Power of Gratitude: Elevating Your Vibrational Frequency
By Louise Blankenship 11 Jan, 2024
Explore 'The Power of Gratitude: Elevating Your Vibrational Frequency' blog for insights on how gratitude transforms lives, boosts positivity, and elevates energy.
More Posts
Share by: