Doctor shares 'instant headache relief' that works in just 30 seconds

If you suffer from headaches or migraines, sometimes you can feel desperate for a quick-fix solution.

While painkillers and a cold compress can provide relief, sometimes you need a solution to stop the headache in its tracks.

A doctor has shared a quick and easy solution that promises to relieve the pain from tension headaches within 30 seconds.

READ MORE: Doctor explains how to tell if your headache is a sign of a brain tumour

READ MORE: Urgent warning as change 'increases heart attack and stroke risk'

Dr Michael Rowe, who is a chiropractic doctor and shares tips on how to relieve pain around the boy, explained that you can do an easy exercise "anytime, anywhere".

In a video posted on Instagram, the doctor said: "A major cause of headaches is due to a build up of tension in the muscles of the upper back and neck.

"This exercise will help quickly release this tension and you can pretty much do it anytime, anywhere (including at work or in class)."

To do the simple exercise, Dr Rowe suggests starting off stretching your arms straight in front of you with palms facing each other, as if you were clapping.

Then stretch your arms back, keeping them straight, until they are as far behind your back as possible.

"Try to feel a deep stretch in your chest, but more importantly try to pinch the shoulder blades in the back," he said.

To take the stretch to the "next level", hinge your elbows up so your hands are in line with your head, palms facing outwards. Finally, reach all the way up to the sky and bring your hands together.

"As you do this, you should feel a ton of muscles in the neck and upper back start to fire. Hold this comfortably for a second or two."

You should then go back to arms in line with your head, and finally finishing at the starting position. Dr Rowe suggests doing this complete cycle five to 10 times, trying to build in more movement each time.

According to the NHS, the exact cause of tension headaches is unclear, but they have been linked to things such as:

• Stress

• Poor posture

• Skipping meals

• Dehydration

Migraines are less common than tension headaches and are usually felt as a severe, throbbing pain at the front or side of the head. Some people also have other symptoms, such as vomiting, nausea or increased sensitivity to light or sound.