Alternative medicine is an appropriate first step for treatment of these common types of headaches. Many of these natural healing therapies are ideally suited to correct posture, movement and body alignment as well as to relieve stress which is a major contributor to headaches. A conventional medical approach becomes appropriate if the headaches do not respond to alternative therapies. Conventional medicine is always the primary treatment for certain headaches which may indicate a serious medical condition. Acupressure is a non-invasive technique that can be used by parents and easily taught to older children and teenagers to relieve the pain of tension headaches.
Pressure is applied to stimulate specific acupoints to relax tense muscles.
Acupuncture practitioners stimulate particular acupoints corresponding to the type of headache by inserting fine needles under the skin. This therapy may be considered for older children and teenagers who are affected by chronic headaches that are not responsive to non-invasive natural therapies. Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants and herbs to treat headaches. Herbalists may recommend that you massage your child's temples with a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary or peppermint oils. Older children and teenagers can quickly learn to do this therapy themselves.