Headaches and migraines are a common problem and in some cases pain originates from the spine. The muscles and joints in the neck are the most common areas to produce painful symptoms, typically due to the strains placed on them. Thankfully Chiropractic treatment can be a good approach for providing relief from headaches and preventing symptoms.
Tension-type headaches are the most common type of headache. Most people consider tension headaches as a normal, everyday headache. This is commonly caused by stress, poor posture and overuse. As a result of this pain can radiate into our head, often described as a pulsating ache and tight band. Neck pain can accompany this type of headache.
A migraine headache usually causes severe pain which is felt as throbbing on one side of the head. They are thought to be caused by blood vessels in the head dilating. Migraines are often accompanied with other symptoms such as feeling sick, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light and sound. Chiropractic treatment has shown to be effective in providing relief from migraine symptoms and even reduce frequency of attacks.
Cervicogenic headaches refers to pain originating from the cervical spine (the neck), though a person will feel the pain in their head. This could be from the nerves, muscles or joints, or a combination of all three. Often pain is referred to the back of the skull, top of the head, and behind the eyes. Neck stiffness and tension is also associated with cervicogenic headaches.
Headaches and migraines are caused by and exacerbated by stiffness in the joints and tightness in the neck, shoulder and back muscles. We treat both these issues simultaneously. Also your Chiropractor will look at how your posture and lifestyle could be causing triggers for headaches and migraines.
Chiropractic manipulation helps to relieve pressure in the joints and increases movement. Massage techniques help release the tight muscles in the neck and shoulder. By releasing the key areas in the head, neck and upper back we can dramatically reduce headache intensity and frequency.
