Chiropractic Treatment of Headaches
There are many different causes of headaches, from tight muscles to dehydration. There is evidence available for chiropractic treatment of three different types of headaches; migraine headaches, cervicogenic headaches and tension type headaches.
These are recurrent headaches that usually last anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days. They are often found just on one side of the head and they can be quite severe. Some people have an aura associated with these headaches, which is a temporary visual or auditory disturbance that occurs before the headache starts. Nausea, vomiting and a sensitivity to light and sound are common.
1. Migraine
These are recurrent headaches that usually last anywhere from 4 hours to 3 days. They are often found just on one side of the head and they can be quite severe. Some people have an aura associated with these headaches, which is a temporary visual or auditory disturbance that occurs before the headache starts. Nausea, vomiting and a sensitivity to light and sound are common.
These types of headaches respond quite well to spinal manipulation and massage. Also, counseling in exercise, relaxation and stress-relieving techniques can help with the management of these headaches.
2. Tension-type headache
These headaches occur frequently and can last from minutes to days. Often the pain is present on both sides of the skull and feels like a tight band around the skull. Usually there is no vomiting or nausea associated with these headaches. The temples and back of the skull may be tender to touch.
These types of headaches respond very well to chiropractic care. Focusing on mobilization of the neck and muscle work can help alleviate the symptoms of these headaches.
3. Cervicogenic headache
These headaches are caused by some referral from the neck, whether it is the joint or the muscles. When palpating the neck, pain may be felt in the head or the face, which means the source of the pain is in the neck even though the symptoms are felt elsewhere.
These headaches respond very well to spinal manipulation of the neck, joint mobilization of the neck and deep neck flexor exercises. A combination of all these treatments help with the management of the source of the pain as well as the symptoms.
Dr Marlee Lameris is the newest member to our clinic family. To book an appointment with her call 403-347-3261. Family First Chiropractic 142 Erickson Drive, Red Deer. www.family1stchiropractic.ca
Resources
1. Bryans et al. Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Headache Disorders in Adults. 2012. Canadian Chiropractic Association.
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