Tension headaches
Chronic headaches related to masticatory, cervical and facial muscle tensions. Often associated with bruxism and stress.
Characteristics
Cervico-mandibular tension headaches result from chronic muscle tension in the masticatory and cervical muscles. These bilateral, helmet-like headaches are aggravated by bruxism and poor posture. Physiotherapy combines myofascial release, postural correction, and relaxation exercises.
- Band or helmet-like pain
- Bilateral temporal tensions
- Associated neck stiffness
- Worsened by stress
Physiotherapy treatment
- Temporal muscle relaxation
- Cervical manual therapy
- Relaxation techniques
- Postural correction and exercises
Progress with treatment
Progress varies according to the condition and individual factors. Conservative options may be discussed after assessment, without a promised result or timeline.
Questions About TMJ Disorders
Characteristics
Chronic headaches related to masticatory, cervical and facial muscle tensions. Often associated with bruxism and stress.
Physiotherapy treatment
Temporal muscle relaxation Cervical manual therapy Relaxation techniques Postural correction and exercises
How many sessions are needed?
The number and spacing of visits depend on assessment, response and goals. No duration or result can be guaranteed.
Scientific sources
- Effectiveness of manual therapy for TMD (PubMed)
- TMJ and cervical spine connection (PMC)
- Therapeutic exercises for TMD (PubMed)
- Conservative approach to TMJ disorders (PubMed)
- Intra-oral techniques - systematic review
- Bruxism and physiotherapy (PubMed)
- Physiopedia practical guide - TMD
- HAS recommendations on TMD