Since time immemorial, the ponytail has been the go-to hairstyle of every woman. This is mainly because it is easy to do, time saving and can fit any occasion.
Research has shown, the continuous wear of the ponytail hairstyle may result in Alopecia. As this is yet unsettled, ponytails are known to be the cause of constant pain.
Neurologists confirm there is actually a condition called ‘ponytail headache’. This is the nickname of a medical condition known as the external-traction headache. According to them, this condition occurs due to pain-sensitive nerves in the scalp. When there’s a pulling sensation on the hair, it may not hurt immediately.
However, a longer hold on the tensions will get the nerves more sensitive and these send a pain signal to the brain itself.
When the stretched touch sensation is sensed by the brain as pain, it is described as allodynia. Pain from brushing your hair or even shaving your face can all be described as allodynia.
Ponytail headache is a lot more common than most people presume. Common hair accessories like headbands, hijabs, skin masks, caps etc, may cause the same kind of pain or effect.
In as much as the condition is common, not all people feel this kind of pain or sensation with ponytails or hair accessories. People who often experience migraines are more likely to experience ponytail headaches as well. For such people, a slight pull on the hair could cause great discomfort.
Medical conditions like fibromyalgia –a rheumatic condition characterized by muscular pain with stiffness or localized tenderness at specific points of the body- also cause the ‘ponytail headache’ as well. Other studies have linked hormonal changes, menstrual cycle and cycle changes to changes in scalp sensitivity and thus causing this kind of pain.
Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen can help with the pain when it is being experienced. Doctors also suggest repositioning the ponytail or loosening the tightness of the ponytail to help relieve the pressure. Other lifestyle measures to help alleviate the condition will include changing how you braid your hair, changing the hairline or how you crop your hair.
Always remember, if you need to have your hair uptight for an event, you can alleviate the pain by taking your hair down as soon as possible after the event.
