Tension Headaches Explained in Vacaville CA

Everyone experiences a headache every now and then. By far, tension headaches in Vacaville CA are the most common since it affects 9 out of 10 adults at some point in their lives.

Fortunately, you can get quick relief from tension headaches and even prevent the pain from coming back especially when you understand what caused it and have taken simple corrective steps.

Causes of tension headaches in Vacaville CA

Tension headaches usually root from tense muscles in the neck, shoulders, jaw, scalp, and upper back.

The number one cause of tightness in these muscles is poor posture that results from a typical forward head and neck. While standing, good posture is measured when our ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles are in a direct line with each other.

When our head and neck juts forwards from the normal posture, there will be a tremendous amount of strain on the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and upper back that causes them to become overstretched and weak. This also strains the occipital nerve originating in the upper neck, which can lead to headaches.

Though a forward head posture is not the only reason for tense headaches. Anxiety, depression, stress, and sleep deprivation can also lead to tense muscles that causes headaches as well.

Holding your head in an unnatural position for minutes or hours like the way you do when holding a telephone between your ear or sleeping in an awkward position can tense your muscles.

Natural ways to ease tension headaches

1. Rest with your eyes closed - Tension headaches that are caused by the occipital nerve can increase light sensitivity.
2. Massage tense muscles - A foam massage roller can help you reduce the pain on your own since it works out tension in the muscles of your neck, shoulders, and upper back.
3. Apply heat to the back of your neck - A heating pad or hot damp towel rolled up can help release the tension in your muscles.
4. Use a natural topical pain cream - Any pain reliever cream you have in your home can help manage any pain coming from your muscles, nerves, and even emotional distress.

Preventing tension headaches

1. Get enough sleep - A lack of sleep can lead to headaches. You can use a natural sleep aid if needed, but make sure to get your rest.
2. Exercise regularly - Exercise is a great stress-reliever. It can also release mood-enhancing endorphins and even improve blood circulation, all of which are helpful in preventing tension headaches.
3. Drink plenty of water - Dehydration can be the cause for your headaches. If you feel like a headache is about to start, try drinking 2 to 4 cups of water to see if your body requires fluid. This simple solution can prevent headaches triggered by dehydration.
4. Maintain proper posture - Make it a habit of being aware of how you sit and stand. Remember that your ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles need to follow a straight line to the floor while standing. When sitting, your ears, shoulders, and hips should be aligned. Avoid constantly leaning your head to one side since this is a major trigger of muscle strain in your neck.
5. Use back support - If you will be sitting for a long time, it is best to have a back support cushion to help maintain proper posture while also relieving the stress on your neck and back muscles.

If you are still having headaches that are related to muscle tension or poor posture, then come visit our clinic at Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA. Just call our clinic at (707) 474-5688 so that we can schedule an appointment for you right away.