What Are Tension Headaches?
Tension headaches are one of the most common types of head pain experienced worldwide. They are usually described as a dull, steady ache that feels like a band tightening around the head. The discomfort often centers at the temples, forehead, or the back of the neck.
Causes That May Trigger the Pain
There are many reasons why people experience these headaches. Stress and anxiety often play a major role, as do lifestyle factors. Hours spent hunched over a laptop or phone can create neck strain. Muscle tightness in the shoulders, jaw, and scalp also contributes, while eye fatigue, poor sleep, and dehydration may worsen the condition. In Cambridge, where many people spend long days at office desks or commuting, these triggers are particularly common.
How Therapy May Help With Tension Headaches
Massage provides a drug-free approach to relieving headaches while also dealing with their underlying causes. By releasing tight muscles, circulation improves, and nutrients reach sore tissues more efficiently. Better blood flow may help ease stiffness and reduce the likelihood of recurring pain. When the neck and upper back are more relaxed, posture improves, making it easier to sit and stand without strain. Some individuals notice changes after their first session, while others find regular care brings gradual improvement.
What to Expect During a Session
Your therapist will typically focus on areas that hold the most tension. This may include the upper shoulders, the base of the skull, the scalp, and even the jaw. Some people notice relief right away, while others benefit from consistent visits. Sessions often leave patients feeling lighter and more relaxed, as if the weight pressing down on their head has finally eased.
Blending Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, and Massage
Pairing massage with other forms of care may help individuals achieve better results. For example, physiotherapy techniques such as C-spine mobilization can improve neck mobility, reducing stiffness that feeds into headaches. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper movement in the spine and, when combined with massage therapy, create a well-rounded approach to easing tension. This combination may provide broader benefits by addressing both muscular and structural factors.
Simple Steps for Preventing Headaches
Alongside professional care, small changes can make a big difference:
- Take frequent breaks from screens, stretching your shoulders and neck
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Use deep breathing or relaxation exercises to calm stress
- Set up your desk or workstation with proper ergonomic support
- Consider regular sessions of massage, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care as part of your wellness plan
Our neck exercise video demonstrates gentle stretches designed by a physiotherapist. Movements such as chin tucks, side-to-side rotations, and tilts can help reduce stiffness, but they should only be performed within a comfortable range or as directed by your clinician.
Book Your Session Today
Don’t let tension headaches control your days. Massage therapy, especially when combined with physiotherapy and chiropractic adjustments, may help improve mobility, reduce strain, and ease tension headaches. Call Helios Physiotherapy and Rehab in Cambridge to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.