Tension Headaches
A common headache type characterised by a dull, pressing pain or tightness around the head, often linked to stress, muscle tension, or poor posture.
Quick answer
Tension headaches produce a dull, pressing pain or tightness around the head, commonly linked to muscle tension, stress, and poor posture. Manual therapy, acupuncture, stress management, and magnesium show good evidence for both treatment and prevention.
Do any of these feel familiar?
- Tension headaches are most commonly described as a dull, pressing, or squeezing pain that wraps around the head — often likened to a tight band or a weight across the forehead, temples, or back of the skull
- The pain is typically bilateral and builds gradually during the day
- Unlike migraines, physical activity does not worsen it, and it is not usually accompanied by nausea or sensitivity to light
- Many people describe it as an unwelcome but familiar companion — present most days at varying intensity, draining energy and concentration
- Neck and shoulder tension are frequently co-present
- Stress, dehydration, screen use, and disrupted sleep are among the most common triggers
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