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What are Stress Headaches?

There is a stark distinction between migraines and stress headaches. While the symptoms of these two different types of headaches may mimic each other, what is actually occurring in the body when these two conditions occur is actually quite different.

Stress headaches, otherwise known as tension headaches, usually occur as a result of muscle tension. These headaches are usually rooted in stress, which is where the name comes from.

When we are stressed we usually tense up our muscles and bones without knowing. This tension occurs in the shoulders and the neck and when we are constantly tensing these muscles, they are excessively strained. Lactic acid buildup in these muscles combined with overuse contributes to significant problems and in most cases, the first problem that occurs is the stress headache.

Stress headaches are usually localized to one part of the head, while migraines usually feel like they are taking over our entire brains and radiating throughout our body. Stress headaches are also often felt behind the eyes. They can last for upwards of a few hours, while migraines can last for days and significant alter the course of our schedules.

Chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms of stress headaches, but ultimately, the best way to prevent these headaches from occurring is by managing our stress. Chiropractors can figure out the best possible alignment for the neck and for the shoulders in an effort to prepare the body for these headaches. Additionally, chiropractic care can help our muscles and bones resist the tension that stress creates through strengthening and elongating of these muscles.

Chiropractors also have the ability to help us manage stress. One of the core values in chiropractic care is a holistic approach to the entire body, and many chiropractic clinics have a wellness arm that is poised to help us in all health scenarios. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, and chiropractic professionals understand this.

Overall, the stress headache is one of the common musculoskeletal ailments that we experience. However, there are steps that we can take to prevent them from arising and restore our productivity, our inner peace, and our life balance. Remember to take care of yourself, whatever that takes. Stress can quickly escalate into something worse, so keep it in check.

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Used under Creative Commons Licensing courtesy of Amanda Patsopoulou

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