Is it normal that i get headaches from ponytails?

89% Normal
7 Comments

Ponytails are super convenient when I'm working, as I have decently long and thick hair. However, I get a massive headache after a short amount of time and leave my scalp tender as well. Bobby pins, clips, etc. also cause headaches, though not scalp tenderness. The feeling of undoing a ponytail is so relieving to me and the headache and most of the tenderness are gone within minutes. I should mention that it doesn't matter if it's tight or loose, as it happens no matter what, and I've had it between decently tight and so loose it started to fall out after awhile. There's no difference.

Voting Results
89% Normal
Based on 19 votes (17 yes)
Help us keep this site organized and clean. Thanks!
[ Report Post ]
Comments ( 7 )
  • charli.m
    4 years ago

    I'd say it's the weight of your hair that's doing it. Even though you get relief once you take the ponytail out, the biggest contributing factor is most likely your hair weight. The act of tying it back is just creating extra pressure/tension/whatever and focusing the weight on a smaller area.

    My friend used to get migraines once her hair was past a certain length, because of the weight strain on her neck. She ended up just cutting her hair and it improved. She still keeps it a little longer than shoulder length and manages ok.

    You could possibly see a physio or osteo or something about your neck, and keep your hair extra long, but just cutting it would be cheaper and easier. Of course, if your hair is super important to you, you may want to check with a professional if this is infact the cause before chopping it off only to find no change - I'm not a professional, I'm just relaying a similar experience.

    Comment Hidden ( show )
    5
    5
  • cipro
    4 years ago

    Sounds normal.

    Comment Hidden ( show )
    2
    2
  • JustMolly
    4 years ago

    Happens to me too, yes it's normal.

    Comment Hidden ( show )
    1
    1
  • IceRed
    4 years ago

    Get a haircut...I also have thick hair and when it grows long it's just a complete burden

    Comment Hidden ( show )
    1
    1
  • CDmale4fem
    4 years ago

    Don't pull them so tight.?

    Comment Hidden ( show )
    0
    0
      -
    • Anonymous Post Author
      4 years ago

      I don't, I've had them so loose they started to fall out after awhile and they still did this.

      Comment Hidden ( show )
      1
      1
        -
      • CDmale4fem
        4 years ago

        Does your job pretty much require you to put hair in ponytail ? Are you around food or drinks that you bring to customers ? If you are in the food industry, maybe try even a hair net.? (You know what's under a pony tail ?)

        Comment Hidden ( show )
        1
        1