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How headaches are related to neck muscle tension

Medically reviewed by Hakam Asaad
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Medically reviewed by Hakam Asaad

Everyone has experienced a headache at least once. This pain can be so uncomfortable that it interferes with daily activities. Headaches can have various causes and lead to numerous issues. However, there is a big difference between ordinary pain and neck tension headache. The former can occur for various reasons and has severe pain similar to a migraine. The latter is characterized by dull and aching pain, but not so sharp.

Neck pain is an unpleasant sensation that occurs due to tension. This pain often results from maintaining the same posture for long periods or from muscle strain. Stress-related psychological factors can also contribute to this type of pain. A computer or poor posture can also cause this unpleasant pain. Typically, the pain starts in the neck and spreads to the head, causing a pulling sensation. This tension headache and neck pain can last for several minutes or hours. It is essential to understand the cause of its occurrence and start treatment.

The Link Between Neck Tension and Headaches

Neck pain and tension can occur for many different reasons. Various physiological factors can lead to neck strain. A person may feel unwell, struggle to function normally, and experience aching pain. This process can lead to headaches that are often dull and intermittent. There can be different reasons for this, even those you don’t realize. Here are the reasons why the neck muscles begin to tighten and pain occurs:

  • Incorrect posture. A person sits bent over all the time and carries things on one arm, and this affects muscle tone. This results in head pain from neck tension.
  • Stress. Stress arises from various factors that affect our psychological health. Nervousness is also very much related to stress, which results in pain. 
  • Inactivity. Most of our life is connected with physical activity, even a little. A sedentary lifestyle can negatively affect our muscles. 

Usually, headaches occur through several pathways. When the neck is sore, tense muscles send signals to nearby nerve tissues. These nerves are located in the head, which is why the headache occurs. Strong, painful muscle tension also affects blood flow in the body. Blood flow to the brain decreases, and pressure builds up. These actions cause headaches. Constant stress is the cause of many diseases, and it also causes headaches. You may experience constant neck tension headaches and not know what the cause is. You might find yourself in a consistently bad mood and worrying excessively. This is how stress causes headaches, and it is essential to find out the cause in time. Only a doctor can examine you, diagnose you, and identify the cause of the pain. Proper treatment will help you maintain your health and well-being.

Symptoms of Neck Tension Headaches 

Symptoms-of-Neck

Typically, headaches have their characteristics and different pain sensations. It can also be very long or, on the contrary, sharp and fast. Such pain is influenced by many different factors, even those that are invisible to us. Chronic neck tension and headaches also have specific symptoms. Here are the main ones:

  • Pain location. Usually, the pain does not start in one place but seems to extend from the neck to the head. Such pain can be dull and aching in intensity that does not allow you to relax. It often occurs in the temples, on the forehead, and at the back of the head. 
  • Intensity. This type of pain may include a sharp tingling sensation, but it’s usually not severe. Migraine, for example, is characterized by extreme and unpleasant pain. In this case, a person feels uncomfortable because of constant aching pain. It is moderate, but its intensity can cause significant harm to mood and well-being. 
  • Stiffness in the neck. Such an unpleasant sensation as neck stiffness can occur unexpectedly. Headache and neck tension are closely related, and sometimes stiffness occurs even in the shoulders. It can be difficult to move because any motion causes pain. It feels like a spasm that prevents movement and can be very painful. 
  • Fatigue. Headaches usually cause negative emotions and a bad mood. It also causes fatigue and exhaustion. This is due to muscle spasms and constant tension. 
  • Sensitivity. Head and neck pain is characterized by aching and pulling sensations. It is not very painful, but touching can cause bad and painful sensations. This is especially true when there are spasms in the muscles, which are very unpleasant. 
  • Duration. Usually, everyone has experienced a headache, but it varies. Also, such pain is characterized by a specific duration. It can last for half an hour or several hours and days. It is essential to start solving the problem right away to avoid complicating the situation. 
  • Other symptoms. Tension headache neck pain can occur for various reasons and have other symptoms. Even when we feel dizzy, pain can follow. The headache can also include nausea, fever, and difficulty with coordination.

Triggers of Chronic Neck Tension and Headaches

There are some triggers that cause unpleasant pain in the head. They cause pain and make it worse. Understanding these triggers and their impact on headaches is very important. A person can quickly make a decision to avoid head pain from neck tension. Here are the primary triggers that occur in every person:

  • Poor posture. Neck muscles need constant light movement in the correct posture. This helps prevent muscle tension and overexertion. Poor posture, prolonged sitting at a desk, and incorrect head positioning can all contribute to this issue. Such actions cause headaches, and inaccurate posture is a key element. 
  • Stress. Stress has a negative effect on the entire body, especially on the muscles. When a person experiences constant tension, they unconsciously strain the muscles of the back, neck, and shoulders. These actions can lead to frequent headaches and other negative effects.
  • Sedentary lifestyle. Headache and neck tension are caused by inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle. Muscles throughout the body become tight and tense. It is important to understand that physical activity is key to maintaining health. A sedentary lifestyle has a negative impact on headaches, especially.
  • Sleep quality. For everyone, sleep is essential for good health. It also affects the general condition and becomes an obstacle to the occurrence of headaches. In addition, improper sleeping positions can cause discomfort and tension in the neck and then pain.

Analyzing and recognizing such triggers is a critical element in reducing pain. It is better to try to find out the cause of the headache yourself, add physical activity and healthy sleep, and you will see the difference. When the pain of constant neck tension headaches becomes more frequent, it is better to consult a doctor. A doctor can examine you, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Effective Treatment Options for Constant Neck Tension Headaches

Effective-Treatment-Options

To avoid headaches, it is essential to understand the cause of their occurrence. You can conduct research on this process yourself. It is a good idea to see a doctor to start therapy and get rid of the pain. It is important to consider some pain management options that are pretty effective. Here are the main ones:

  • Physical therapy. Visiting a therapist for chronic neck tension and headaches is essential. The doctor examines you, assesses your muscle structure, and helps you solve the problem. He prescribes special useful exercises and performs manual therapy. 
  • Therapeutic massage. A special massage from a professional will help relieve tension from the body. You’ll likely feel much better after the muscles in your back and neck are relaxed. This massage helps to improve blood circulation and stretch the muscles. 
  • Chiropractic. This method is very effective for spinal alignment. During this procedure, pressure is relieved, and pain is reduced. 
  • Medications. In some cases, medications are the best option to avoid pain. They help to anesthetize the area that hurts you and relieve the spasm. It is important to understand that medications must be prescribed by a doctor.  
  • Healthy lifestyle. You can reduce or avoid neck tension headaches by yourself. Establish regular sleep, meditation, aromatherapy, and physical activity. Combined, these components allow you to feel good and avoid headaches.

Preventive Strategies for Reducing Neck Tension and Headaches

It is essential to understand how to prevent headaches. Some tips can help you with this and reduce pain. Use the right equipment and chairs that are useful and comfortable for you. This approach will help you avoid muscle tension. Another tip for reducing tension headache neck pain is exercise. Regular exercise will help you strengthen your muscles and prevent pain. Develop strategies to manage your emotions and reduce stress. You will not only avoid pain but also preserve your mental health and psyche. Be mindful of your posture and how you move. Being aware of how you walk and carry yourself can help prevent muscle strain.

When to Seek Professional Help for Neck Tension Headaches

It’s essential to understand when you can manage pain on your own and when you should see a doctor. Some symptoms and pain may indicate a problem that should be addressed immediately. Persistent and aching pain is a reason to see a doctor. Headache and neck tension may be accompanied by nausea and weakness. If you feel this way, you should seek help. If the pain significantly interferes with your daily life, it’s advisable to get a medical examination. It is also important to remember about numbness, weakness, and loss of concentration and conversation. These symptoms are the first signs of an illness or a severe problem. It is essential to seek help immediately for further treatment.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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