Kids Tension Headaches: How To Tackle Them

mom sits with child on couch who has a headache

Do you ever feel like a little drum is beating inside your head? That could be a tension headache! It’s like a sneaky ninja that shows up when you least expect it. But don’t worry, we’ve got some superhero moves to help you kick those headaches to the curb!

What Are Tension Headaches?

Tension headaches are like tiny construction workers building a tight band around your head. They happen when your neck and scalp muscles get super tense. Imagine your muscles are like rubber bands, getting all wound up and causing that drumming feeling.

Why Do We Get Tension Headaches?

Muscle Knots: Sometimes, our muscles get naughty and form knots. It’s like when your shoelaces get twisted – not fun! These knots in your neck and shoulders can lead to tension headaches.

Stress: Did you know that stress can make your muscles throw a little party of their own? When we’re stressed, our muscles tighten up like a scared turtle hiding in its shell. And voila, tension headache alert!

Relieving Tension Headaches: Your Superhero Toolkit

1. Physical Therapy – Super Stretches

Imagine your muscles doing a big stretch, like a cat waking up from a nap. Physical therapy helps you learn these cool stretches to relax those tight muscles. Your superhero physical therapist guides you through exercises that make your muscles go, “Ahh, that feels good!”

2. Massage Magic: Rub-a-Dub Relaxation

Think of a massage as a superhero sidekick, ready to battle those tension headaches with soothing strokes. Massage helps break up those naughty muscle knots, making them behave again.

3. Muscle Knot Mystery: Finding & Defeating

Picture your muscles like a treasure map, and the knots are the hidden X marks. Sometimes, a superhero massage therapist can find these knots and make them disappear! They use special techniques to untangle the knots and let your muscles relax.

4. Stress-Busting Strategies: Superhero Mind Tricks

Close your eyes and imagine a peaceful land with fluffy clouds. That’s your stress-free zone! Superheroes use mind tricks like deep breathing and imagining happy places to kick stress out of your head.

4. Dry-Needling: Needle Ninjas

Don’t worry; it’s not as scary as it sounds. Dry needling is like a superhero ninja that uses tiny needles to poke those muscle knots into surrender. The needles help release tension and make your muscles feel all zen and happy again.

Preventing Tension Headaches: Your Shield Against Sneaky Attacks

1. Stay Hydrated: Water is Your Sidekick

Imagine water as a superhero shield, protecting you from tension headaches. Drink plenty of water to keep your muscles happy and hydrated.

2. Stretch Breaks: Superhero Power Moves

Every hour, take a stretch break like a superhero power move. Stretch your arms, wiggle your toes, and shake out the tension. It’s like a mini superhero workout for your muscles.

3. Screen Time: Defender of Your Eyes

Too much screen time can make tension headaches sneak up on you. Be a screen time defender by taking breaks and giving your eyes a superhero rest.

Be Your Own Superhero With Breathe. Physical Therapy & Wellness in Des Moines & North Liberty

Tension headaches might be sneaky, but you’re a superhero in training. With the power of physical therapy, massage, muscle knot mysteries, stress-busting strategies, and maybe a little dry needling, you can kick those headaches away. So put on your invisible cape, stand tall, and say, “Goodbye, tension headaches – I’ve got this!”

If you need more support, get in touch with the team at Breathe. in North Liberty or Des Moines! We assist not only women, but children too with physical therapy. Book your appointment and let’s tackle those pesky headaches.

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