Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, often described as a constant, dull pressure or ache in the head, forehead, or neck. While they’re frequently linked to stress, poor posture, or muscle tension, they can also occur due to spinal misalignment or tight muscles in the neck and upper back. If you’re tired of suffering from constant head pain, Elevate Wellness Chiropractic can help by providing natural, drug-free relief.

What Are Tension Headaches?

A tension headache is a headache that often feels like a tight band wrapped around your head. It typically causes mild to moderate pain that feels steady rather than throbbing. Many people also experience:

• Tightness or pressure across the forehead or temples
• Neck or shoulder stiffness
• Scalp tenderness
• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating

Unlike migraines, tension headaches don’t typically cause nausea or sensitivity to light, but they can still significantly interfere with work, sleep, and daily life, especially when they become frequent or chronic.

There are three main types of tension headaches:

Infrequent Episodic — You typically have headaches one day a month or less (under 12 days per year).

Frequent Epsodic — You experience headaches one to 14 days every month for at least three months (12 to 179 days per year).

Chronic — You experience headaches 15 or more days per month for over three months (180 or more days per year).

Common Causes of Tension Headaches

Tension headaches often develop when muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back become tight or strained. Common contributing factors include:

• Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting or screen use
• Stress, anxiety, depression, and emotional tension
• Neck or upper back misalignments
• Muscle imbalance or weakness
• Jaw tension, TMD, or teeth grinding 
• Repetitive movement or overuse injuries
• Eye strain
• Fatigue, dehydration, or skipping meals

When the spine is not moving properly, surrounding muscles may tighten to compensate, leading to ongoing tension and worsening headache pain.

Our Approach to Treating Tension Headaches

At Elevate Wellness Chiropractic, we take a personalized approach to tension headache treatment. Your care plan may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments to improve alignment in the neck and upper spine
• Soft tissue therapy to relax tight muscles and reduce trigger points
• Laser spinal decompression to reduce stress and tension
• Postural guidance to address habits that contribute to muscle strain
• Stretching and strengthening exercises to support long-term relief 
• Lifestyle recommendations to help manage stress and prevent future episodes 

Treatments will depend on your specific symptoms, health history, and daily activities. 

When to Seek Chiropractic Care for Headaches

You may benefit from chiropractic care if:

• You experience frequent or recurring tension headaches
• Headaches are accompanied by neck stiffness or shoulder pain
• Over-the-counter medications only provide temporary relief
• Headaches worsen with stress or prolonged sitting 
• You want a natural, non-invasive treatment option

Early care can help prevent tension headaches from turning into a chronic problem. And even if you are not currently experiencing symptoms, we recommend coming in for regular chiropractic care to maintain proper spine health and keep your body fully functional.

Schedule a Consultation

If tension headaches affect your quality of life, a chiropractor can address the underlying cause of your pain and provide long-term relief. Contact our office in Bountiful or Clinton, Utah, today to schedule a consultation and learn how chiropractic treatment can help you live a better quality of life.