There can be many causes for head aches and migraines so if you have a persistent headache or migraine and are unsure about the cause consult your G.P. In many cases the cause is muscular in origin and these are termed ‘tension’ head aches.
These occur when the muscles and soft tissue of the neck and shoulders become tight, restricting both movement of the head and the blood vessels that pass through the neck to the head. This can be caused by:
- Poor posture especially after long hours looking at a screen or phone
- Over loading the muscles during exercise
- Whiplash, from any sudden violent movement of the head …from a car crash to sneezing!
- Eye strain.. good idea to get a regular eye test
- Emotions .. the muscles of the shoulder typically shorten when stressed as our shoulders gravitate towards our ears.
- Environmental factors – all muscles shorten if the body is cold (e.g. sitting under air conditioning)
- Dehydration
Massage may help by encouraging the muscles of the neck and shoulder to return to a healthy state and removing any restriction to the blood vessels bringing oxygen and glucose to the brain. Whilst all massages will help we recommend a Sports Massage or Myofascial Release with the therapist focusing on the head, neck and shoulders.