Being able to think clearly and calmly allows us to make decisions, process emotions and go about our daily lives. Unfortunately, this clarity can easily be destroyed by a strong headache. Many people suffer from occasional headaches, but frequent headaches that affect your ability to sleep or go about your daily life can be disabling.
Different Types of Headaches and Chiropractic
Common types of headache are tension, migraine and cervicogenic headaches.
Tension headaches usually present as a band-like tension and pain around the head, while migraine headaches usually cause pain on one side of the head and are often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
In cervicogenic headaches, the source of the problem is the neck, but the pain is perceived in one or more areas of the head and/or face. The causes of headaches are not always fully understood, but a family history of headaches, neck stiffness and stress are common factors.
Chiropractors can assess, diagnose and manage headaches. Studies have shown that chiropractic treatment can be effective in treating cervicogenic and tension-type headaches and can also help reduce the intensity and frequency of migraines (1).
It is important to take headaches seriously. Consider consulting a chiropractor if you have frequent headaches, if you often take painkillers for your headaches, if your headache patterns change, or if your headaches are getting worse. Seek help if your headache is sudden and severe, follows a head injury or is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, weakness, numbness or difficulty speaking.
Comments