Tension headache Tension-type headache / muscle tension headache

Approximately half of the world's population will suffer a muscle tension headache at least once in their lives. Tension-type headache is the most common form of headache. Approximately 48 percent of all forms of headache can be attributed to muscle tension headache.

Other forms of headache include migraine, medication-induced headache, cluster headache and cervicogenic headache.

A distinction is made between chronic tension headaches and episodic tension headaches. The chronic form causes headache on at least 15 days per month. The episodic form results in tension headaches on a maximum of 15 days per month, with a minimum of 1 day per month.

We suspect that increased muscle tension in the muscles of the neck causes the headache. These muscles are located at the back of the neck.

Different types of headaches can sometimes look very similar. To find out if you have tension headaches, your doctor or physiotherapist may ask you to keep a headache diary.

In a headache diary you will record how often you have a headache, where the headache is located, the time of occurrence, any additional symptoms and the measures you take to reduce the headache. This helps differentiate the type of headache.

In addition, it is important to rule out other causes such as problems with the neck, teeth, infections of nasal cavities or headaches due to trauma.

Treatment consists of postural instructions, muscle strengthening exercises and mobilisation techniques for the neck.

Follow the exercise programme with exercises for tension headaches.

Nugteren, K. van & Winkel, D. (2012) Onderzoek en behandeling van de nek Houten: Bohn Stafleu van Loghum.