Squinter, Clincher or Turtler

Squinter, Clincher or Turtler…..Wow, What does that mean? These are descriptions of ways that people tighten their neck and face muscles. These muscle gripping actions can lead to serious headaches. One of the main reasons for squinting is to increase clarity of vision. It also creates eyestrain, eyestrain can lead to headaches. Clincher, Your jaw muscles tighten when you grind or clench your teeth – or do things such as chew gum. The pain from your jaw created by the clenching then travels to other places in the skull, causing headaches or, in severe cases, migraines. You may also experience toothaches, earaches or shoulder pain. When the shoulders are lifting up to the ears that is called “turtling”. This action can become a habit from stress, gaming, working on the computer, driving, and many other activities. Take a moment to lift your shoulders to your ears and hold for 20 seconds………………. then release you can feel how this action can create havoc in the shoulder, upper back and neck muscles. The majority of the muscles involved in turtling can refer pain to the head. More possible headaches. It is good to be aware of these actions and check for yourself to see if you are allowing these actions to become habits. Any habit that creates headaches is a bad habit.