Are you serious? Could your ponytail be contributing to your migraines? This may sound like a very simple thing, but how you wear your hair can affect your head. A tight ponytail may strain the connective tissue in the scalp, leading to a headache. Headbands, braids, and tight-fitting hats can create the same effect.

There are all kinds of reasons why you might gravitate towards wearing your hair in a ponytail or even some other type of pulled back style, but, did you know that ponytails if worn too tight could be a true trigger to some of your worst migraines?

According to a National Institute of Health study, 50 of 93 females have experienced what they deem a “ponytail headache.” In more medical-type verbiage, the headache is caused by “peri-cranial muscle fascia and tendon traction.” Basically, your hair tie is too tight and your hair is slicked back a bit too much!

There are plenty of options to achieve the look you are going for while foregoing the pain!
Here are some solutions:

• Lower ponytail somewhere near the nape of your neck
• Half up and down can also be helpful, as you don’t have as much hair to slick back and smooth down
• Low bun/ponytail. It gives me a different look and allows me to highlight my facial features

Ponytail Holders 

If you do feel your ponytail is becoming too painful there really isn’t much you can do other than either loosen it up or simply take it out.

If you are experiencing a headache or migraine for no apparent reason, your brain is aching for a reason, and it is telling you something is wrong. Also, remember that if your hair is pulled too tight, it can actually cause permanent hair loss if you are not careful.

Tip: Whatever you do, don’t sleep in your ponytail. Doing so can cause all types of problems like breakage, tangled/matted hair, and of course, an ongoing ponytail headache/migraine.

So, if you find that having a ponytail, braiding your hair, etc., is causing your headache/migraine, then you may be left with no other alternative than letting your hair down. Doing so will usually bring quick relief. Again, if you use a band of some type to pull your hair back when you exercise and you can tell it is pulling your head, try to keep it a little looser (e.g. wrap it twice instead of three times), and if possible, try to avoid heavy clips in your hair to hold it back.

For more natural migraine relief solutions, check out my book, “The Ultimate Migraine Handbook:  An Holistic Approach to Pain Relief.” It is available on my Website  ==>DOWNLOAD NOW<==  It is also available on Amazon. However, if you would prefer a hard copy, please email me at lynne@holistic-healthandwellness.com to purchase your copy now.