Tension headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and they are often caused by stress, anxiety, and tension in the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders. Other potential triggers include poor posture, lack of sleep, dehydration, and eyestrain.

To fix or improve tension headaches, there are several strategies that can be effective:

• Practice relaxation techniques: Regularly practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help to reduce stress and tension in the body, which can in turn alleviate tension headaches.

• Improve posture: Maintaining good posture, especially when sitting for long periods of time, can help to reduce tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders, which can help to prevent tension headaches.

• Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is important for overall health and can help to reduce the likelihood of tension headaches. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can be a trigger for tension headaches, so it's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Take breaks from screen time: Staring at a computer or phone screen for extended periods of time can strain the eyes and cause tension headaches. Take regular breaks to rest your eyes and stretch your neck and shoulders.

• Try acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. This practice may help to reduce stress and tension, which can be a trigger for tension headaches.

• Consider Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLT): LLT, also known as cold laser therapy, uses low-level laser light to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. In the case of tension headaches, LLT may help to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation in the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulders, which can all contribute to tension headaches.

• Chinese herbal medicine practitioners often create customised formulas based on the individual's specific symptoms and underlying imbalances. These formulas may include a combination of herbs that work together to address the root cause of the tension headache.

             Some of the herbs commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat    

             tension headaches include:

1. Chrysanthemum flower: This herb is often used to relieve headaches and eye strain, as it is thought to have a cooling effect on the body.
2. Angelica root: Also known as dong quai, this herb is often used to promote circulation and relieve tension in the muscles.
3. White peony root: This herb is thought to have a relaxing effect on the muscles and may be helpful for tension headaches caused by stress and anxiety.
4. Gastrodia root: This herb is thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may be helpful for tension headaches caused by stress and anxiety.
5. Ginger: This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and may be helpful for tension headaches caused by inflammation in the body.

Chinese herbal medicine may also be used in combination with acupuncture and other traditional Chinese medicine techniques to address tension headaches holistically.

It's important to note that if you are experiencing frequent or severe tension headaches, it's a good idea to consult with a GP to rule out any underlying medical conditions.