Alternative medicine

The following nontraditional therapies may help if you have tension-type headache pain:

• Acupuncture. Acupuncture may provide temporary relief from chronic headache pain. Acupuncture practitioners treat you using extremely thin, disposable needles that generally cause little pain or discomfort. Acupuncture is typically safe when performed by an experienced acupuncturist who follows safety guidelines and uses sterile needles.
• Massage. Massage can help reduce stress and relieve tension. It's especially effective for relieving tight, tender muscles in the back of your head, neck and shoulders. For some people, it may also provide relief from headache pain.
• Deep breathing, biofeedback and behavior therapies. A variety of relaxation therapies are useful in coping with tension-type headaches, including deep breathing and biofeedback.