If you experience headaches originating from the base of your skull, it is likely that you are dealing with tension headaches.
Tension headaches occur when the muscles in your upper back and/or neck become tight and exert pressure on the base of your skull, leading to a headache. These tight muscles are often a result of postural issues, which have become increasingly common due to extended periods of computer work.
Understanding the biomechanics involved makes it easier to comprehend the root of the problem:
Imagine holding a 10-pound bowling ball with your forearm held straight up and down, as you would when preparing for your approach. It is relatively easy to maintain this position for a long time because the weight of the ball is supported by the bones in your forearm. Now, imagine bending your forearm forward by 10 degrees. It won’t take long for your bicep to start feeling the strain. The same principle applies to the muscles in your upper back and neck.
When you have good posture, the weight of your (approximately) ten-pound head is mainly supported by your spine. However, with poor posture, your head tends to droop forward, causing the muscles in your neck and upper back to work much harder. This results in muscle tightness and the development of tension or suboccipital headaches.
So, how can you alleviate tension headaches?
If you’re experiencing tension headaches, there are three things you should consider:
1. Use a cervical pillow: A cervical pillow is designed to maintain proper neck alignment while you sleep. Many people find that simply switching to this type of pillow reduces the frequency of headaches and alleviates neck and upper back pain. These pillows are available at our office.
2. Engage in postural exercises: For most individuals, it is beneficial to stretch the chest muscles and strengthen the muscles in the upper back and neck. This helps bring the shoulders and head back into a better position, allowing the spine to better support the weight of the head.
3. Seek chiropractic treatment: By improving the movement of the joints in the upper back and neck, chiropractic care reduces inflammation, relaxes muscles, and eliminates headaches. In fact, we have found that headaches respond particularly well to chiropractic treatment compared to other conditions we treat. If we are unable to help, we will provide you with a referral to someone who can.
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