Tension headaches: causes, symptoms and treatment
A clinically reviewed guide to tension headaches, including those linked to the neck, and how they are managed.
Medically reviewed by D.C Matt · Lead Director
Last reviewed 1 July 2026
- Tension-type headache is the most common type of headache.
- Neck and shoulder tension often contribute (cervicogenic component).
- Managing posture, stress and neck tension helps many people.
What is a tension headache?
A tension headache is a dull, pressing pain that wraps around the head like a band, often with tightness in the neck and shoulders.
Unlike migraine, it is usually not throbbing and not made much worse by movement. When the neck is a driver, it may be described as a cervicogenic headache.
What are the symptoms of a tension headache?
Typical symptoms are a band-like pressure around the head, neck and shoulder tightness, and scalp tenderness.
- Dull, aching, band-like pressure on both sides
- Tightness in the neck, shoulders and jaw
- Tenderness around the scalp and temples
- Usually no nausea or strong light sensitivity
How are tension headaches treated?
Tension headaches are managed by addressing the neck, posture, stress and sleep, with manual therapy where the neck is a contributor.
Where a neck component is present, manual therapy and targeted exercise can reduce headache frequency. Managing triggers such as stress, screen time and sleep is also important.
The Postura approach
At Postura Wellness, care for tension headaches is built around OrthoRestore™ — our signature method that combines chiropractic and physiotherapy into one coordinated plan. Depending on your assessment, it can bring together chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, muscle manipulation, Active Release Technique, and targeted exercises, supported where helpful by technology such as shockwave therapy and bioelectric therapy. The aim is to relieve symptoms while addressing the underlying causes, with a plan tailored to you.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent care for a sudden severe 'thunderclap' headache, a headache with fever and a stiff neck, or headaches with weakness, confusion, vision loss or after a head injury.
Sciatica FAQs
What is the difference between a tension headache and a migraine?
Tension headaches are usually a dull, band-like pressure on both sides, while migraines are often throbbing, one-sided and come with nausea or light sensitivity.
Can neck problems cause headaches?
Yes. Neck tension and joint irritation can refer pain to the head (cervicogenic headache), which often responds to treating the neck.
Can physiotherapy or chiropractic help tension headaches?
When a neck component is present, manual therapy and targeted exercise can reduce headache frequency and intensity.
When should I worry about headaches?
Seek prompt care for sudden severe headaches, headaches with fever and stiff neck, or headaches with neurological symptoms.
This guide is informed by patient information from accredited medical institutions:
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