How To Stop A Headache In Its Tracks – Without Medication

December 5, 2017

5 Natural Remedies To Dissipate & Prevent Headaches

Tension headaches, migraines, headaches that accompany neck pain, no matter what type, headaches are a major inconvenience and sometimes even debilitating. They can result in time off from work, missing out on social events, and not being able to take care of your home, kids, or yourself. Many headaches can be stopped in their tracks and even prevented. Here are five natural remedies for headaches.

1 – Neck Stretches

Stiffness in the neck and tight neck and shoulder muscles are part of the most common contributors to headaches and neck pain. By stretching the muscles of the anterior and lateral neck, you can help to prevent tension headaches and headaches that seem to start from the back of your head. Some techniques to keep the muscles in your neck from tightening up include rolling your shoulders back, squeezing your shoulder blades together, and gently moving your head through its range of motion (up and down, side to side, and rotating left to right) at intervals throughout your day. Prevention is always the best medicine, so keep yourself limber and help to head off the headaches before they start.

2 – Correct Posture

In the digital age, people can often be found working long hours at a computer desk, checking emails on their laptop, or with their head bent over a phone scrolling through social media. All of these activities are associated with poor posture. Poor posture causes shortening of certain muscles in the neck and shoulder, and weakening of the deep neck muscles. These deficits create tension on your neck and the base of your skull as it becomes difficult for you to hold your head upright. This added stress to the cervical joints can cause headaches. In order to help prevent headaches related to posture, sit with your shoulders back and chin up. Position your computer where it is at eye level so you do not have to bend your neck over, and be aware of the time spent with your neck bent over looking at your phone or tablet. Correct posture is one of the most effective and easiest natural remedies for headaches.

3 – Decrease Stress

It may seem like a no-brainer, but being under stress can contribute to headaches. Side effects of stress such as increased blood pressure and muscle tension can cause headaches. Work to manage your stress through techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and exercise. When you feel overwhelmed by stress and a headache setting in, go to a dark, quiet room and lay down if possible. Take some deep breaths and try to clear your mind. Often, eliminating stress can help relieve a migraine.

4 & 5 – Massage and Medical Providers

If you are unable to calm your headaches on your own, professional help can provide excellent natural remedies for headaches. Physical therapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists all have specialized training and techniques for natural remedies for headaches. Addressing muscular deficits, spine alignment, and trigger points can make a dramatic difference in the frequency and intensity of headaches.

While headaches happen to almost everyone, they do not have to be a chronic part of life. Following these tips for natural remedies for headaches can help you get your life back instead of being kept down by your pain. As always, if headaches persist, it is recommended to get checked out by your primary care provider.