Headaches and Chiropractic Care

 

If you have a headache, you're not alone. 9 out of 10 Americans suffer from headaches. Some are occasional, some are frequent, some are dull and throbbing, and some cause debilitating pain and nausea. 

 

What do you do when you suffer from a pounding headache? Do you grit your teeth and carry on? Do you lie down? Do you pop a pill and hope the pain goes away? 

 

There is an alternative.

 

Research shows that spinal manipulation, one of chiropractors' primary treatments, is an effective option for headaches. 

A 2014 Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) report found that treatment commonly used in chiropractic care improved outcomes for acute and chronic neck pain. 

Also, a 2011 JMPT study found that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, can improve migraine and cervicogenic headaches.

 

So, what are Cervicogenic Headaches?

 

A cervicogenic headache, is a chronic headache that originates in the neck and is often triggered by abnormal neck movement. These headaches are characterized by:

• Pain on one side of the head that starts in the neck

• Moderate to severe pain that's referred from muscles or bony structures in the neck

• Reduced range of motion in the neck

• Pain that's more common in females 

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Why are we getting so many headaches? 

1. Cervical Spine Disorders: Conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, or arthritis in the neck can lead to headaches. 

2. Neck Injuries: Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash from an auto accident or sports injury, can result in headaches. Injuries can cause muscle strain, joint damage, or misalignment in the cervical spine, contributing to headache pain.

3. Poor Posture and Ergonomics: Poor posture, especially from prolonged sitting or using electronic devices. Poor posture can strain the muscles and joints in the neck, leading to misalignment and muscle imbalances that trigger headaches.

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The vast majority of headaches are associated with muscle tension in the neck. Americans engage in more sedentary activities than in the past, and more hours are spent in one fixed position, such as desk work. This can increase joint irritation and muscle tension in the neck and upper back, causing a headache.

 

What do you do if you are experiencing frequent headaches?

First, you want to make sure you are evaluated so a proper diagnosis can be made. Many causes and conditions can generate headaches, so we want to ensure the underlying cause is identified and something more serious is not causing headaches. 

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How can a chiropractor help your headaches?

Chiropractors can help alleviate headaches by addressing underlying issues in the cervical spine and surrounding structures through various techniques.

1. Spinal Manipulation and Adjustments: Chiropractors use spinal manipulation to improve spinal function and alleviate stress on the nervous system. By adjusting the cervical spine, they can correct misalignments contributing to headaches.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and massage can help reduce muscle tension and alleviate pain in the neck and shoulders, which are often associated with headaches.

3. Postural and Ergonomic Advice: Chiropractors can help with posture and ergonomic adjustments to prevent strain and tension that lead to headaches, especially for those who sit for long periods or use electronic devices.

4. Exercise and Stretching Programs: Customized exercise routines and stretching programs can strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches. Skyline Chiropractic and Sports Medicine can help teach these exercises and ensure they are performed correctly.

5. Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling: Chiropractors can suggest lifestyle improvements, including stress management, dietary modifications, and proper hydration, which can help prevent headaches.

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At Skyline Chiropractic, we can offer a thorough approach to headache management and prevention by addressing the root causes of headaches and promoting overall health. Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions regarding headaches and treatment.