Tension Headache

What are tension headaches?

Tension headaches are diagnosed when an examination does not reveal a known condition such as migraines or cluster headaches. It is a harmless condition, although it can sometimes be very bothersome. It can range from occasional mild headaches to severe daily headaches.

What causes tension headaches?

Research has shown that headaches can also originate in the neck. Formally, this is called ‘cervicogenic headache’, but this term is hardly used in the Netherlands. That is why this type of headache falls within the tension headache category, and it is probably also the most common variant.

Two studies were conducted into the effect of an incorrect sleeping position on neck pain and headaches. The participants’ usual sleeping position was compared with a good sleeping position.

It also emerged that both neck pain and headaches decreased significantly by improving the sleeping position. The conclusions are:

1.  Tension headaches seem to originate largely in the neck
2.  An incorrect sleeping position appears to be the most important cause
3.  The symptoms can be improved by adjusting the sleeping position 

In addition to an incorrect sleeping position, other causes of tension headaches have been identified, such as looking down at a tablet or phone for long periods. Reading in positions that strain the neck can also be a cause.

What can you do about tension headaches?

Not all causes of tension headaches are clear. However, the part that originates in the neck can be addressed effectively as follows: 

1. Improve your sleeping position

• The body pillow ensures that your neck does not twist while you sleep.
• The Hi4 Pillow ensures that your neck does not bend sideways.

The Hi4 pillow can be adjusted to 8 positions, allowing you to choose the height that suits you best. The shape of the pillow is also important. It should fit the neck and head properly.

The Hi4 pillow has a neck support that fits precisely into your neck, allowing it to relax optimally.  
 

2. Also avoid other neck-straining positions

The amount of time people spend looking at screens has increased enormously. Often, the head is bent forward for long periods while doing so. This increases tension in the neck—not only in the muscles, but also in the joints and ligaments.

3. Therapy

Tight muscles and a stiff neck can be treated effectively with exercises and therapy. However, if the underlying causes are not addressed, the symptoms will return. Therapy combined with addressing the causes is therefore the best way to get rid of tension headaches.

Reduce tension headaches with the Sleep Better Set

Take advantage now of an extra discount on the Sleep Better Set: Hi4 Deluxe Pillow + Body Pillow.

For more information about the GezondNu test:

• GezondNU article, March 2012: "Less neck pain and headaches with pillows" by Toine de Graaf (PDF)
• GezondNU article, August 2011:"Headache? Incorrect sleeping position" by Toine de Graaf (PDF)
• Click here for the detailed research report on the pillow and body pillow test.

For more information about the UMCG study:

• UMCG study

 ©2024, Author: Jan Willem Elkhuizen, physiotherapist and movement scientist