Stress headaches, also known as tension headaches, are a common type of headache triggered by physical and emotional stress factors. They usually manifest as a dull, pressing pain and often affect both sides of the head. Physiotherapy has established itself as an effective method for treating and preventing stress headaches.
Stress, both physical and emotional, leads to increased muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulder, and head area. These tensions can impair blood circulation and increase pain sensitivity. Stress headaches, also known as tension headaches, are one of the most common forms of headaches.
They result from various factors that strain the muscles of the head and neck. This type of headache can be episodic or chronic. The exact pathophysiology is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that increased muscle tension and changes in pain processing in the central nervous system play a central role.
Tension headaches are widespread globally and affect people of all age groups. Tensionheadaches are somewhat more common in women than in men. They are prevalent across all age groups, with a slightly higher incidence in young adulthood. There are no significant geographical differences in the distribution of tension headaches, but cultural and socioeconomic factors can influence their perception and treatment. The treatment of tension headaches includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches:.
An accurate diagnosis is the first step in the physiotherapeutic treatment of stress headaches. Physiotherapists conduct a detailed medical history and physical examination to identify muscle tension, postural issues, and other relevant factors. Imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRI are often used to rule out structural problems. The physiotherapeutic treatment of stress headaches includes various approaches aimed at relieving symptoms and addressing underlying causes:. Various studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of physiotherapy in treating stressheadaches.
