Chiropractic Care for Headaches and Migraines

Approximately 12 percent of Americans suffer from migraine headaches. That is almost 40 million individuals, according to the National Institutes of Health. Many also experience cluster and tension headaches. These cause incapacitating pain and other annoying symptoms. All these make headaches one of the most prevalent health problems among adults.

Most people take OTC medications to treat headaches. Unfortunately, these drugs are not always effective. Worse, some cause severe side effects, such as an increased risk of liver damage or GI bleeding. Are you hesitant about OTC medications? If so, chiropractic therapy may be your best alternative.

It is a promising treatment option for people with migraines and headaches. It is especially effective when combined with other treatments. Treatment usually involves manual manipulation meant to address musculoskeletal issues.

Can It Help With Headaches and Migraines?

Chiropractic therapy includes active and passive exercises, spinal manipulation, and massage. Experts say that it can be effective for headache prevention and management. The types of headaches for which most people seek chiropractic therapy are:

Migraines

Migraines cause debilitating headaches and other symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Studies show a connection between neck pain and migraines, making it challenging to distinguish between cervicogenic headaches and migraines. It is best to consult a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause. This will help determine the best treatment.

An effective treatment option for migraines is chiropractic therapy. They also use multidisciplinary care interventions.

Cervicogenic Headaches

These headaches usually begin with pain on one side that originates at the back of the head and moves to the front. Shoulder or arm pain on the same side often accompanies the headaches. Experts believe that these headaches stem from an underlying neck problem or injury. Unfortunately, medication is not always effective with this headache type.

Therapies for cervicogenic headaches include the following:

·      Spinal manipulation.

·      Joint mobilization to reduce pain and improve movement.

·      Deep neck flexion exercises to stretch the neck muscles. These play a critical role in supporting your neck.

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches can stem from muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, or head. Studies show that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, can help relieve this condition. That said, a more multidisciplinary approach may improve tension headaches.

When to Seek Help

Everyone experiences a headache once in a while. You should consider seeking medical intervention if your headaches are severe and recurring. It is especially important to do so if they come with symptoms such as:

·      Nausea.

·      Fever.

·      Throbbing sensation.

·      Weakness.

·      Pain on one side of the head.

·      Confusion.

·      Vision changes.

·      Light or sound sensitivity.

Conclusion

Are you looking for alternative and complementary therapies for your headaches or migraines? If so, consult your doctor. A combination of treatments, including chiropractic, will ease your suffering. Finding the perfect combination requires persistence, patience, and a little trial and error.

For more on chiropractic care, visit Whiplash Pain Center. We have offices in Summerville, Charleston, North Charleston, and Holly Hill, South Carolina. Call (843) 371-1371, (843) 350-5022, (843) 636-7246, or (803) 496-3338 to schedule an appointment today.