15 Nov Myth Busting About Tension Headaches

Find out what the 2 Common myths are about Tension Headaches 

When it comes to tension headaches there are many myths and theories out there.

Tension headaches are headaches that feel like a band is tightening around your head or headaches that feel like a ton of weight is pushing down on the top of your head. 

2 Common myths about Tension Headaches 

Myth 1: 
The most common myth regarding tension headaches is that tension headaches are caused by an increase in muscle tension around the head.

TRUTH: Studies have shown that there is no correlation between forehead and scalp muscle tension and Tension Headaches. The initial thoughts were that stress leads to an increase in muscle tone in the scalp and forehead muscles. But Electrical Muscle Testing shows that there is no increase in muscle activity in the forehead and scalp muscles before and during a Tension Headaches ! 

Myth 2: 
Tension headaches become worse with exercise This myth was thought to come from the idea that exercise will increase muscle tone in the forehead and scalp region and the increased muscle tension leads to Tension Headaches!

TRUTH: Studies have shown there is no increase in muscle tension or activity in the forehead and skull muscles during exercise before or during Tension Headaches.

So WHERE do Tension Headaches come from? 
Research has shown that Tension Headaches actually come from the first 3 joints of the neck! Often it is the joint stiffness and misalignment in the first 3 joints of the neck that leads to Tension Headaches! Research has shown that when the stiffness and misalignment in the first 3 joints of the neck is corrected, Tension Headaches are eliminated! 

Here at My Favourite Physio, our Expert Physiotherapists are specially trained as Headache and Migraine Therapists, and we are able to diagnose and treat your Tension Headaches to help you effectively overcome your Tension Headaches in the long term with a specially tailored physiotherapy program. To find out more, ring My Favourite Physio now on (02) 9790 423 to speak to one of our Headache and Migraine Physiotherapists.