Relieve the Pressure: How Myotherapy Can Help with Tension Headaches

What causes tension headaches

Tension headaches are among the most common types of headaches, affecting millions of people across the globe. In Australia, more than 60% of individuals experience a tension-type headache at some point in their lives—with many enduring recurring or chronic episodes that disrupt daily life.

Often triggered by stress, poor posture, or muscle tension, these headaches can be stubborn and uncomfortable. While over-the-counter medications may offer short-term relief, they don’t tackle the root causes. That’s where physical therapy like myotherapy and remedial massage, a treatment focused on muscle health, comes into play.

What Are Tension Headaches?

Tension headaches typically feel like a dull, aching pressure around the head—often compared to wearing a tight band around your skull. The pain can range from mild to moderate and last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days.

Types of Tension Headaches

- Episodic: Occur fewer than 15 days per month.

- Chronic: Occur 15 or more days per month for at least three months.

Chronic tension headaches can severely impact concentration, productivity, and overall well-being.

What Causes Tension Headaches?

Several common factors can contribute to the development or worsening of tension headaches, including:

- Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp

- Emotional or physical stress

- Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting - Sleep disturbances or insufficient rest

- Dehydration

- Caffeine withdrawal

Understanding your personal triggers is a key step toward prevention and long-term relief.

Recognising the Symptoms

Tension headaches often come with:

- A dull, persistent ache around the head

- A sensation of tightness across the forehead or back of the head

- Tenderness in the neck, shoulders, and scalp

- Fatigue or low energy

- Difficulty concentrating

Unlike migraines, tension headaches usually don’t involve nausea, vomiting, or heightened sensitivity to light and sound.

Relief from tension headache

Conventional Treatments for Tension Headaches

Many people turn to conventional treatment methods, including:

- Pain relievers: Ibuprofen, paracetamol, or aspirin

- Stress management: Yoga, meditation, breathing exercises

- Physical therapy: Postural correction and muscle-strengthening exercises

- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): To manage anxiety or emotional stress

While these options can ease symptoms, they may not resolve the muscular and biomechanical causes behind recurring headaches.

Why Choose Myotherapy?

Myotherapy is a hands-on, clinically backed approach to treating musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of muscle tension, particularly in areas commonly linked to tension headaches.

How Myotherapy Can Help:

- Muscle Release: Massage and dry needling relieve muscle tightness and reduce pain.

- Posture Correction: Exercises and ergonomic advice improve alignment and reduce strain.

- Stress Reduction: Calming techniques help manage stress and prevent flare-ups.

- Personalised Care: Every treatment plan is tailored to your body and your lifestyle.

Clinical studies show that myotherapy can reduce both the frequency and severity of tension headaches over time.

Myotherapy in Northcote, Melbourne

If you’re in Northcote or the greater Melbourne area, Motion Myotherapy offers expert treatment to help manage and prevent tension headaches. Our experienced team of myotherapists delivers personalised care using massage, dry needling, posture correction, and exercise programs to address the root of your symptoms.

We’re conveniently located in the heart of Northcote and dedicated to helping you feel your best.

Simple Self-Care Tips for Headache Prevention

In addition to professional myotherapy treatment, these practical strategies can support your recovery and reduce the chances of future headaches:

- Exercise regularly—walking, swimming, or yoga can ease muscle tension

- Drink water—stay well-hydrated throughout the day

- Use ergonomic furniture—ensure your desk setup promotes good posture

- Take breaks—stand and stretch every 30–60 minutes if sitting for long periods

- Practice mindfulness—daily meditation or deep breathing can reduce stress

Consistency with these habits can make a big difference over time.

When to Seek Professional Help

Tension headaches are common—but if they become frequent, intense, or start affecting your daily life, it’s time to seek professional help. Speak with a healthcare provider if:

- You experience headaches more than twice a week.

- Pain relievers no longer offer lasting relief.

- Headaches interfere with your work or personal life.

- You notice changes in your headache patterns.

A tailored treatment plan, especially one that includes myotherapy, can help you get lasting relief.

Ready to take the next step?

Reach out to Motion Myotherapy in Northcote and start your journey to a healthier, headache-free life.