What is a tension headache?
A tension-type headache usually feels like steady pressure or tightness on both sides of the head, across the forehead, or at the back of the head. It is commonly linked to stress, long hours at a screen, poor sleep and muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Unlike migraines, tension headaches usually don't cause nausea or strong sensitivity to light. For migraines, see headache and migraine treatment.
Who this care may be appropriate for
People with frequent tension headaches, especially when they come with tight neck and shoulder muscles or desk-related posture.
Common symptoms patients describe
- Band-like pressure around the head
- Headaches at the end of a workday
- Tight neck and shoulders with headaches
Individual results vary. Your care plan depends on your exam and health history.
What to expect
Health history and exam
Dr. Davis reviews your health history and examines the area of concern. Your first visit takes about 30 minutes.
Your options, explained
You hear the exam findings and whether this care is a reasonable option for you. You decide how to proceed.
Treatment options
Care may include gentle neck and upper back adjustments, dry needling for the neck and shoulder muscles, and practical guidance on posture and screen setup.
Follow-up
Dr. Davis checks how you responded and adjusts the plan as needed.
Call 911 or go to an emergency room for a sudden, severe headache (often described as the worst of your life), or a headache with confusion, weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, vision loss, fever with a stiff neck, or after a head injury.
Questions about tension headache
Can a chiropractor help with tension headaches?
Chiropractic care is commonly used for tension-type headaches, especially when neck and shoulder tension is involved. Individual results vary.
Does dry needling help tension headaches?
Dry needling is commonly used for tight neck and shoulder muscles that may contribute to tension headaches. Whether it fits you is decided after the exam.
When should a headache be checked by a medical doctor?
Any of the warning signs on this page need medical care. So do headaches that are new after age 50, keep getting worse, or change pattern.
Last reviewed October 2026