Tension Headache in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different tension headache patterns according to TCM theory
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Condition Categories
Tension headaches, characterized by a dull, aching sensation all over the head, are among the most common forms of headaches experienced by adults. Often described as a tight band around the head or a weight on top of it, these headaches may also cause soreness in the shoulders, neck, or even the jaw.
Unlike migraines, tension headaches typically do not cause visual disturbances, nausea, or vomiting and are classified as a primary headache due to their frequent occurrence and non-secondary nature to another medical condition.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a 'pattern' is a diagnostic framework that describes a state of disharmony in the body. It encompasses a full picture of a person's health, considering signs and symptoms, emotional temperament, and physical constitution. Identifying patterns is vital in TCM as it informs the practitioner about the underlying cause of symptoms like tension headaches.
This holistic approach ensures that treatment is tailored to the individual, addressing the root of the imbalance rather than just the presenting symptoms. Understanding the specific pattern is crucial because it guides the choice of acupuncture points, herbal formulas, and lifestyle advice given to the patient.
Herbal Formulas for Tension Headache
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address tension headache