Headaches (HA) can alter a person’s quality of life significantly. They can interfere and even prevent an individual from performing important activities. This may include going to work, attending school, or participating in group activities such as sports and more. The focus of this article is tension-type headaches (TTH), a common “primary headache” with tremendous socioeconomic impact.

Headache Studies

Compared to migraines, tension-type headaches are actually more common and can be equally disabling. In 2014, a study reviewing popular treatment approaches for TTH reported that establishing an accurate diagnosis is important prior to beginning treatment. Recommended treatment also includes becoming educated about TTH, obtaining reassurance, and identifying trigger factors that can precipitate tension headaches. Psychological treatments have proven benefits including relaxation training, EMG biofeedback, and “cognitive-behavioral therapy” (CBT). Physical therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture are used, but further research supporting these approaches is needed.

Researchers state that basic analgesics are the primary drug choice for TTH. They oppose the use of combining analgesics, triptans, muscle relaxants, and opioids. It’s important to avoid frequent and excessive use of simple analgesics to prevent the development of medication overuse. They state that the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline is the first choice when treating chronic TTH. The side effects can be significant, thus hampering their use. Researchers conclude that the treatment of frequent TTH is difficult and multidisciplinary approaches can be helpful. The researchers state that non-drug approaches and medications “…with higher efficacy and fewer side effects [are] urgently needed.” It advises that future studies need to focus on optimizing treatment programs to best suit the individual patient by utilizing psychological, physical, and pharmacological-treatment approaches.

Conclusion

So, what does chiropractic bring to the table in this “team” treatment approach? First, it is non-drug oriented. Secondly, the presence of muscle tension at the base of the skull/top of the neck can be addressed with spinal manipulation of the cervical spine, active release, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, manual cervical traction, etc. Third, the use of NON-PRESCRIPTION nutrients such as ginger, turmeric, Boswellia, bromelain, white willow bark, and fish oil/omega-3 fatty acids are all non-drug (with fewer potential side effects) options that facilitate controlling inflammation. Utilizing a home cervical traction device can be very helpful! Exercise training designed for muscle relaxation, stretching, and strengthening (for deep neck flexors) are a part of chiropractic treatment.