Headaches

Because headaches are so common, some people think that getting a headache is just a normal part of life. They couldn't be more wrong! Headaches are a definitive sign that something has gone wrong.

There are many types of headaches: migraine, tension, cluster, dehydration. The most frequent cause of headaches in chiropractic patients is spinal dysfunction. This will cause irritation of the nerves as they exit the upper spine resulting in pain along their path. The nerves in the upper half of the neck are responsible for sensation throughout the head and neck. Is it any wonder then that neck problems will cause headaches?

So what can be done? The first thing to do is seek professional help. A chiropractor will be able to diagnose your problem and tell you why you are having these headaches. A 'hands-on' treatment program will be recommended and/or you may be referred for further investigation if your chiropractor feels that would be valuable. Management of your headaches will include chiropractic adjustments (no drugs or surgery) to normalize the function of your spine, advice on lifestyle changes to help prevent further recurrences and advice on how you can help deal with the problem.

Can you help? Yes. Knowledge is the key to preventing headaches from starting in the first place. Understanding how they are triggered will aid you in stopping them. In addition, you need to report all that you feel to your chiropractor so that he/she knows all there is to know about how your headaches occur. Once the headache has begun, you can use heat/ice, rest/activity, or stimulation/repression techniques as your chiropractor advises. You will come to know when it is appropriate to seek care and when it is not necessary. As time goes by, you should have less and less headache as all factors are dealt with.

Most patients seeking chiropractic care for headaches receive relief to some degree. Those who do not may still receive help from wherever the chiropractor refers them.