Chiropractic and Headaches

Chiropractic and Headaches

Headaches are a common occurrence but they are by no means normal. The vast majority of headaches are “primary” headaches meaning that they are not caused by any underlying condition or disease. A large majority of these primary headaches are associated with muscle tension and joint dysfunction in the neck.

Modern societies live a much more sedentary lifestyle than our predecessors, and we spend more hours in one fixed position or posture. Think about how many hours we spend driving, on the computer or watching television. These sustained positions and bad postures can increase joint irritation and muscle tension particularly in the upper back, neck and base of the skull which can result in headaches.

Changes in the position of the spinal column can result in inappropriate distribution of weight (and therefore forces) on areas of the spine causing pain and/or discomfort. You may be surprised to know that something as seemingly unrelated to headaches as low back pain can be a cause for that headache you’ve been experiencing.

 

Q: What can you do to help a headache?

We suggest the following:

If you spend a lot of time in one fixed position or posture, limit your immobility to a maximum of 30 minutes. After half an hour get up and move around, stretch your muscles and move your joints gently through their natural range of motion.
Engage in meditation or other stress relieving activities. When we are stressed we tend to clench our jaws, tighten or muscles etc. These things can exacerbate or bring on a headache
Drink plenty of water.

Q: What can Chiropractic do?

Chiropractors are very skilled at detecting misalignment in the spine and assessing the function of the joints and the muscles of the body. As part of your care we may:

    • Perform Chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal function, body balance and alleviate the stress on your body and nervous system.
    • Work to relieve chronic tension in muscles associated with headaches.
    • Provide you with exercises and stretches to help improve posture.
    • Provide you with information on work ergonomics, exercises and relaxation techniques.

Q: What do you do when you have a headache?

Do you ignore it and learn to live with it?

Do you take a pain medication to prevent your body from signaling you that something is wrong?

Long term analgesic use is associated with an increased risk of severe complications such as ulcers, addiction, as well as kidney and liver damage!

Why not try something natural, safe and effective like Chiropractic?