Tension-type headache: causes, symptoms and physiotherapy treatments

When tension headache affects movement and quality of life

Tension headache is a condition that can cause pain, stiffness, functional limitation and, in some cases, symptoms that radiate to other areas of the body. It may appear gradually or after trauma, overload, incorrect posture or repetitive movements.

A physiotherapy assessment helps identify the structures involved, reduce symptoms and plan a targeted recovery pathway.

Main causes

The most common causes may include:

• muscle tension and joint stiffness
• incorrect or prolonged postures
• trauma, overload or repetitive movements
• reduced mobility and muscular weakness
• biomechanical or degenerative changes

Most common symptoms

• localized or radiating pain
• stiffness and reduced mobility
• weakness or loss of strength
• difficulty with daily activities or sports
• discomfort that worsens with load or prolonged positions