Muscle Contraction Headache Treatment in India

Sai Nair, a 42-year-old senior software...

Sai Nair, a 42-year-old senior software architect and father of two, had been battling a persistent, dull, squeezing headache for nearly three months. It felt like a tight band was constantly wrapped around his forehead. The pain, which he rated a 5/10, was present from the moment he woke up and worsened throughout his demanding workday. He had tried over-the-counter pain relievers with little success and found himself increasingly irritable and short-tempered at home. His primary care physician, suspecting a tension-type headache, referred him to a neurologist. The neurologist, after a thorough examination and ruling out other causes, diagnosed him with a chronic muscle contraction (tension-type) headache, likely triggered by prolonged poor posture at his desk and high stress. The doctor recommended a multi-pronged approach: starting amitriptyline, a low-dose preventive medication, and, crucially, a referral to physical therapy to address the muscular component. Sai was initially skeptical about physical therapy, viewing it as just 'stretching,' but agreed. The treatment involved targeted massage, myofascial release techniques, and exercises to strengthen his neck and upper back. The first few sessions were uncomfortable, releasing deep-seated tension. Emotionally, Sai felt frustrated and defeated by the constant pain, fearing it would impact his ability to provide for his family. After 6 weeks of consistent therapy and medication, the band-like sensation loosened significantly. His headache frequency dropped from daily to once or twice a week, and the intensity was much lower. The relief was profound. He felt like himself again, more patient, present with his children, and able to focus at work without the distracting ache. The journey taught him the deep connection between physical tension and pain, and he now incorporates daily stretching and posture checks into his routine.