What Is a Tension-Type Headache?

Tension-type headaches are commonly associated with muscular tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. These headaches often develop gradually and may be related to posture, stress, or prolonged muscle tension.

They are typically described as a dull or pressure-like sensation around the head.

Individuals May Experience

• Pressure or tightness around the head

• Pain starting at the base of the skull

• Neck or shoulder tension

• Headaches that worsen with stress or posture

• Sensitivity in the scalp or neck muscles

What Contributes to Tension-Type Headaches?

Factors that may contribute include:

• Muscle tension in the neck and shoulders

• Forward head posture

• Stress-related muscle tightness

• Prolonged desk work

• Limited mobility in the upper back

These factors may influence tension in the muscles surrounding the head and neck.

How Manual Therapy May Help

Osteopathic Manual Therapy

Osteopathic treatment may evaluate how the cervical spine and upper back move together.

Treatment may include:

• Improving cervical spine mobility

• Addressing thoracic spine restrictions

• Reducing fascial tension in the neck and head region

• Supporting coordinated movement between the head and spine

Osteopathic care often focuses on reducing mechanical tension around the head and neck.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy rehabilitation may help improve posture and muscle support.

Treatment may include:

• Neck stabilization exercises

• Postural retraining

• Upper back strengthening

• Movement strategies for desk work

These exercises help support proper neck mechanics during daily activity.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy may help reduce muscular tension associated with headaches.

Treatment may include:

• Addressing tightness in the neck muscles

• Reducing tension in the shoulders and upper back

• Improving circulation in surrounding tissues

Massage therapy may help relieve muscular tension that contributes to headache symptoms.

Book an Assessment

If headaches frequently begin with neck or shoulder tension, our team can assess contributing factors and guide appropriate care.