3 Tips to Help Tension Type HEADACHES
3 Tips to Help Tension Type Headaches
In this video we go through 3 ways to help the tension in the neck and shoulders that may sometimes lead to headaches.
- POSTURE
Maintaining great posture is important in our daily lives. It’s not easy if we are sitting down with study or work. Aim to keep your head over your shoulders and bring your phone up to your eyes, as opposed to you bending your head down. An ergonomic assessment at the office would be advisable.
When there is a forward head carriage, then the muscles at the back of your head get tense and tight and can pull on the base of the skull where they attach, if that posture is maintained for long periods of time. This pull can case a tension type headaches that can be felt at the back of the head or even be referred to the front of the head.
Keep moving frequently to stimulate movement in the spine and reset your posture. When you get fatigued, then your posture is more likely to suffer.
2. STRETCH
Trapezius stretch at the back of you neck/shoulders.
Tilt your head to the side and slightly forward. To accentuate the stretch, gently pull down with the hand on the same side that the head is tilted. Hold for 30-60 seconds. Do both sides.
Front/side neck stretch.
Tilt your head to the side and slightly back. To accentuate the stretch, gently pull down under the collar bone, with the hand opposite to the side you are tilting your head. Hold for 30-60 seconds. Do both sides.
Great idea to do these stretches in the office during your breaks. Also, try them in the shower with warm water running over the areas you are stretching.
3. HEALTHY SPINAL ALIGNMENT
Sometimes tension type headaches can be due to stiffness in the neck joints. If you find your headaches are not improving, then call us on 9329 1118 or your local chiropractor and find out if can help.
