PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR  TENSION HEADACHE

PHYSIOTHERAPY FOR  TENSION HEADACHE : A tension-type headache (TTH) is generally a mild to moderate pain that’s often described as feeling like a tight band around the head. A tension-type headache is the most common type of headache, yet its causes aren’t well understood.

Treatments for tension-type headaches are available. Managing a tension-type headache is often a balance between practicing healthy habits, finding effective nondrug treatments and using medications appropriately.

                                          CAUSES OF TENSION HEADACHE

The cause of tension-type headaches is not actually known. Experts used to think tension-type headaches stemmed from muscle contractions in the face, neck and scalp, perhaps as a result of heightened emotions, tension or stress. But research suggests that muscle contraction isn’t the cause.

The most common theory supports a heightened sensitivity to pain in people who have tension-type headaches. Increased muscle tenderness, a common symptom of tension-type headaches, may result from a sensitized pain system.

                          SYMPTOMS OF TENSION HEADACHE

Signs and symptoms of a tension-type headache include:

• Dull, aching head pain
• Sensation of tightness or pressure across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head
• Tenderness in the scalp, neck and shoulder muscles
• Tension-type headaches ar in two main categories — episodic and chronic.

Episodic tension-type headaches

Episodic tension-type headaches can last from 30 minutes to a week. Frequent episodic tension-type headaches occur less than 15 days a month for at least three months. Frequent episodic tension-type headaches may become chronic.

Chronic tension-type headaches

This type of tension-type headache lasts hours and may be continuous. If your headache occurs 15 or more days a month for at least three months, it is a chronic one.

Tension-type headaches versus migraines

Tension-type headaches can be difficult to distinguish from migraines. Plus, if you have frequent episodic tension-type headaches, you can also have migraines.

Unlike some forms of migraine, tension-type headaches usually aren’t associated with visual disturbances, nausea or vomiting. Although physical activity typically aggravates migraine pain, it doesn’t make tension-type headache pain worse. An increased sensitivity to either light or sound can occur with a tension-type headache, but this symptom isn’t common.

                                                   PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT OF TENSION HEADACHE

• Massage therapy
• Cryotherapy
• Patient education for proper posture
• Exercises

Visit us at Effective Physiotherapy and Fitness Clinic at No 2 D Close, Ajumgobia Street, Kado Estate, Abuja or call +234 811 885 6060,