Tension-Type Headache: What To Know

Tension-type headaches are the most common primary headache disorder with a global prevalence of up to 1.68 million. According to one study, up to 78% of the population have experienced or will experience a tension-type headache in their lifetime (lifetime prevalence).
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Tension-type headaches can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 days, are typically located on both sides of the head/neck, mild to moderate intensity, and have a pressing or tightening pain quality (non-pulsating). Additionally the pain does not become worse with routine activities (eg. walking up the stairs). While this headache is not associated with nausea or vomiting, it can be associated with photophobia or phonophobia.
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It is possible for migraine and tension type headache symptoms to overlap or to have two concurrent headaches. If this is the case, you may be provided with a probable or mixed type headache diagnosis.

Manual therapy such as soft tissue therapy (trigger point therapy, myofascial release), joint mobilization/manipulation, posture relief exercises and education, exercises and rehabilitation may help provide relief of symptoms from tension-type headaches. A recent Cochrane research review study has indicated acupuncture as a preventative treatment option for tension-type headache sufferers to help decrease the frequency of headaches.

Restore and maintain optimum physical function! Call to book an appointment or if you have any questions: 905-235-6777
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Haptic Health and Chiropractic’s onsite chiropractor is trained to assess and diagnose tension-type headaches and other headaches, determine effective treatment and refer to other health professionals when necessary. Haptic Health and Chiropractic is located in Sharon and provides service to York Region and the towns of East Gwillimbury, Newmarket, Aurora, Georgina, and Bradford.​

References:

1. Global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability for 310 diseases and injuries, 1990–2015: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015
2. Has the prevalence of migraine and tension-type headache changed over a 12-year period? A Danish population survey.
3. The International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition
4. Acupuncture for tension-type headache. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2016

​Image Reference:
​Headache - by openDemocracy - CC BY-SA