Q Is it okay to exercise when I have a headache? I'm worried it might make things worse.
A During a headache attack, avoid strenuous exercise and rest. However, regular aerobic exercise (3-5 times a week) in general helps reduce the frequency of headache attacks.
Detailed Answer
Regular aerobic exercise (brisk walking, swimming, cycling, etc., at least 150 minutes per week) has proven preventive effects for both migraine and tension-type headache. However, in some cases high-intensity exercise can itself become a migraine trigger, so you should adjust the intensity while checking your own response. The key is to do it steadily on headache-free days.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Dongjedang recommends moderate-intensity exercise that gently circulates qi and blood rather than vigorous exercise. Neck and shoulder stretches in particular give immediate help for tension-type headache, in which stiff muscles block blood flow to the brain; combined with 10 minutes of abdominal breathing a day, they are effective at bringing down risen heat and opening circulation.
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