Managing Pain During Finals Week: Tips for College Students, Athletes, and Busy Schedules

Finals week can bring headaches, muscle aches, neck and shoulder tension, and other discomfort caused by stress, long study sessions, lack of sleep, and changes in routine. Managing pain during finals week starts with healthy habits such as staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, taking study breaks, and staying active. For temporary relief of minor aches and pains, MOTRIN® (ibuprofen) may be an option when used as directed. If you have questions about your symptoms or treatment options, talk to a healthcare provider.

• Finals week stress can contribute to headaches, muscle tension, and body aches.^[1,2]

• Lack of sleep may increase pain sensitivity and make discomfort feel worse.^[3]

• Long study sessions and screen time can contribute to neck, shoulder, and back pain.^[4]

• Hydration, movement, sleep, and stress management can help support overall well-being during exams.^[1,3]

• MOTRIN® may temporarily relieve minor aches and pains when used as directed.

Finals week often combines several factors that can contribute to physical discomfort, including:

• Increased stress

• Reduced sleep

• Long periods of sitting

• Extended screen time

• Irregular meals

• Dehydration

• Ongoing sports practices or workouts

Stress is a common trigger for tension headaches, one of the most common headache types. Stress may also cause muscles in the neck, shoulders, scalp, and jaw to tighten, contributing to soreness and discomfort.^[5,6]

For many students, these factors build throughout the week, making pain and tension harder to ignore as exams approach.

A tension headache is the most common type of headache. It is often described as a dull ache, pressure, or tightness around the forehead or sides of the head.^[6]

Common symptoms include: ^[6]

• Mild to moderate head pain

• Pressure across the forehead

• Tightness around the head

• Tenderness in the neck and shoulder muscles

Stress, poor posture, eye strain, lack of sleep, and long periods of concentration can all contribute to tension headaches.^[5,6]

Sleep and pain are closely connected. A study suggests that insufficient sleep can increase sensitivity to pain and make discomfort feel more intense.^[3]

During finals week, students often stay up late to review notes, complete projects, or prepare for exams. Getting enough rest can support both recovery and cognitive performance during academically demanding periods.

Yes. Spending long hours reading, typing, or looking down at a laptop can place strain on muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.^[4]

Common study-related complaints may include:^[4,6]

• Aching neck muscles

• Shoulder tightness

• Upper back discomfort

• Tension headaches

To help reduce strain:

• Position screens at eye level

• Sit with your shoulders relaxed

• Stand and move regularly

• Stretch between study sessions

• Change positions throughout the day

Even short movement breaks can help reduce muscle tension and improve comfort.

Student athletes and active college students often face the challenge of balancing training, competition, classes, and exam preparation.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can contribute to headaches, fatigue, and reduced physical performance.^[7] Drinking fluids throughout the day may help support recovery and overall wellness.

Prioritize Recovery Sleep

Sleep is an important part of physical recovery. Consistent sleep schedules can support both athletic recovery and mental focus.^[8]

Eat Regular Meals

Skipping meals during busy study periods may contribute to headaches and low energy. Eating balanced meals and snacks throughout the day can help support energy needs.

Keep Moving

While it may be tempting to remain at a desk all day, walking, stretching, and light activity can help relieve stiffness caused by prolonged sitting.

Students may combine different healthy tips to manage occasional discomfort and consider over-the-counter pain relief options when appropriate.

Strategies that may help include:

• Drinking water regularly

• Taking movement breaks

• Stretching tight muscles

• Maintaining regular meals

• Managing stress

• Prioritizing sleep^[5,7]

For temporary relief of minor aches and pains, adults may consider over-the-counter pain relievers. MOTRIN® contains ibuprofen and may temporarily relieve minor aches and pains associated with headaches, muscle aches and backaches when used as directed.

Always read and follow the product label.

Small habits practiced consistently can help support comfort and well-being during stressful weeks.

Below is an example of a simple routine:

Morning

• Eat breakfast

• Drink water

• Review study priorities

During Study Sessions

• Take movement breaks every 60 minutes

• Stretch your neck and shoulders

• Refill your water bottle regularly

Evening

• Limit unnecessary screen time before bed

• Prepare for the next day

• Aim for a consistent sleep schedule

A proactive approach may help students stay focused while reducing factors that commonly contribute to headaches and muscle tension.

Occasional headaches and muscle aches are common, particularly during stressful periods. However, it may be appropriate to talk with a healthcare provider if:^[6]

• Headaches become frequent

• Symptoms are severe

• Pain interferes with daily activities

• Headaches suddenly change in pattern

• Any new symptoms appear

• You have questions about treatment options

A healthcare provider can help determine the cause of persistent symptoms and recommend appropriate care.

Some tips to remember during your next study session:

• Drink water

• Eat a balanced meal or snack

• Check your posture

• Take movement breaks

• Stretch your neck and shoulders

• Prioritize sleep

• Manage stress with breathing exercises or a short walk

• Consider MOTRIN® for temporary relief of minor aches and pains when used as directed

When minor aches and pains including headaches, muscle aches, and backaches interrupt your study schedule, MOTRIN® can be part of your finals week toolkit. MOTRIN® (ibuprofen) helps temporarily relieve minor aches and pains, so pain does not get in the way of your busy week. Use as directed. If you have questions about symptoms, pain management, or treatment options, talk to a healthcare provider.