Did you know headaches are one of the most common issues treated in chiropractic offices? Some people assume that headaches can’t be addressed by chiropractic treatment since they are not neck or back pain, but that is simply not true. The health of your head is closely related to that of your neck and back since the systems are connected through your spinal cord, muscles, nerves, tissues, and ligaments. Small injuries in lower parts of your body can manifest in the form of headaches if left untreated.
Types Of Headaches Treated By Chiropractors
Many different types of headaches can be addressed by chiropractic treatment, but the most common type is tension headaches. Tension headaches are marked by symptoms including “mild to moderate constant band-like pain, tightness, or pressure around the forehead or back of the head and neck.” Tension headaches are also commonly referred to as stress headaches, since they can be brought on during times of stress. Tension headaches can also be caused by:
- Misalignment of the spine
- Poor posture
- Overexertion
- Bad sleep
- Anxiety
Chiropractic treatment may also be able to address migraine headaches in some patients. Migraine headaches are marked by intense pain, sound sensitivity, and blurred vision.
How Do Chiropractors Treat Headaches?
Chiropractors help treat headaches primarily through spinal adjustments. If the vertebrae in the spine are out of alignment, they can cause increased tension in the muscles as well as irritated nerves and poor blood flow. By addressing alignment issues, chiropractors can help provide pain relief for headaches.
Chiropractors can also work with patients to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your headaches, especially poor posture. Many Americans spend a large portion of their day sitting at a desk or a computer, which can cause serious posture problems. By improving your posture, you may benefit from fewer headaches.
If you are experiencing regular headaches, talk to your doctor and your chiropractor about the best treatment plan for you. Through adjustments, posture improvement, soft tissue therapy, or combined treatment with other healthcare providers, your chiropractor can help you achieve relief from headache pain.
