Tension Headache

Tension headaches typically present as a steady pressure or tight, band-like sensation around the head. Discomfort is most commonly felt across the forehead, temples, or at the base of the skull. While tension headaches are not pulsating like migraines, they can still be persistent and significantly limiting.
In many cases, tension headaches originate from restricted joint motion, muscular overactivity, and poor movement control in the cervical spine, shoulders, and upper back. These dysfunctions can refer pain into the head, creating symptoms that feel head-based but are often mechanical in origin.
 

Common Contributors to Tension Headaches

Tension headaches often develop when muscles and joints are placed under repeated or prolonged stress. Common contributing factors include:

• Muscle tightness in the neck and upper shoulders

• Forward head posture from prolonged computer or phone use

• Poor postural endurance during work, training, or daily activities

• Repetitive movements or sustained positions

• Emotional or physical stress

• Previous neck strain or injury

• Limited mobility in the cervical spine

Athletes and active adults may experience tension headaches due to overuse, inadequate recovery, or imbalances in movement mechanics.
 

Symptoms Commonly Associated with Tension Headaches

Individuals experiencing tension headaches may notice:

• A dull, constant ache around the head

• A sensation of pressure or tightness rather than throbbing pain

• Neck and shoulder stiffness

• Reduced range of motion in the neck

• Headaches that worsen with stress or prolonged activity

Although tension headaches are not dangerous, recurring symptoms can interfere with work productivity, training consistency, sleep quality, and overall comfort.
 

How Tension Headaches Are Treated at Ramar Chiropractic & Rehab

Tension headache treatment at Ramar Chiropractic & Rehab begins with a detailed evaluation of neck mobility, posture, and movement control. Care is designed to improve movement quality and reduce physical stress on the neck and upper spine.

Customized treatment plans may include:

• Chiropractic care to restore spinal joint mobility

• Hands-on soft tissue techniques to reduce muscle tension

• Physical therapy exercises to improve posture, strength, and motor control

• Dry needling, Class IV laser therapy, or electrical stimulation, when appropriate

• Education on posture, movement habits, and recovery strategies

By addressing both joint function and muscular control, our approach helps reduce headache frequency while supporting long-term relief.
 

A Movement-Based, Integrated Approach

Tension headaches rarely stem from a single cause. Lasting improvement requires addressing both mechanical restrictions and movement inefficiencies. Our combined chiropractic and physical therapy model goes beyond symptom relief by targeting the underlying contributors to recurring headaches and promoting healthier movement patterns over time.
 

Find Tension Headache Relief in Shelby Township

When the underlying movement and joint dysfunctions are addressed, tension headaches often become less frequent and far less disruptive. You don’t have to manage ongoing headaches on your own.

If you’re searching for tension headache treatment in Shelby Township or Macomb County, our team is ready to help you move and feel better.