Headaches can be brought on by many triggers: stress, dehydration, digestive issues, lack of sleep, among other causes. Once the headache has begun, it can be hard to relieve the pain. Headaches can be related to inflamed joints in the neck not moving properly, associated with muscle spasms and soft or hard tissue dam-age.
What Are The Most Common Headache Types?
Cervicogenic headaches are the result of tight muscles in the cervical spine (neck). Pain often radiates from one area of the neck or upper shoulders into the head.
Migraines often start on one side of the head and come with debilitating light or sound sensitivity. Some migraine sufferers also have nausea. Migraines can also be associated with menstrual cycles in women.
Cluster headaches present around one eye, deep behind the eyeball.
Tension headaches run along the forehead.
Sinus headaches are in the spaces under the surfaces of the eyebrows, below the eyes, and over the nose.
Hypertension headaches are in the back of the head. These headaches are associated with vasoconstriction (blood vessel constriction), sometimes perceived as throbbing deep in the head and neck.
Allergy headaches can arise on the top of the head and include concurrent symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. These commonly occur during seasonal changes to the environment and more pollen or pollution in the air.
Exertional headaches are a result of exercising. When the body is well-adjusted, well-hydrated, and nourished, exercise should be enjoyable and not cause headaches. However, when the structures of the spine or the soft tissues of the nervous system are not properly cared for, exercise is not fun.
TMJ headaches are associated with pain, “clicking” or catching, and reduced movement in the jaw.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help With Headaches?
Chiropractors check the spine and nervous system to find areas of subluxation, or a mechanical dysfunction of a vertebra, impacting the body’s ability to self-regulate, communicate, and heal. Rather than just trying to cover up symptoms, chiropractors find the underlying cause of the issue. If someone is suffering with a subluxation, chiropractors adjust that area of the spine to create better movement, reduce inflammation, break up scar tissue, and allow the body to heal. If the root cause of a headache comes back to an area of the spine that is restricting adequate nervous system function, the dysfunction can be addressed with chiropractic adjustments.
What Kind Of Chiropractor Is Best For Headaches?
To achieve the best health outcomes, prioritize a comprehensive method that looks beyond treating symptoms to promote healing and enhance the overall well-being of your body. Instead of just combating the symptom, focus on identifying and resolving the root cause. Seek out a chiropractic practice that uses a combination of gentle and targeted chiropractic techniques, lifestyle adjustments, and tailored exercise regimens to effectively tackle the root causes of headaches.
Electra Chiropractic focuses on finding the root cause. If you are unsure if chiropractic can help you, book a complimentary 15-minute consultation to find out directly from Dr. Ariel Thorpe, DC. She is a USA, Hong Kong, and Japan registered and licensed chiropractor. She is the only native English speaking and internationally educated woman chiropractor in Japan.
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