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Headaches

migraine

Types of Headaches

In order to effectively treat any problem it is important to understand what causes it. There are several different types of headaches however the more common ones seen in a Chiropractic office are caused by:

  • Tension of the muscles in the head and neck
  • Blood vessel changes of the head and neck
  • Sinus congestion, allergies or inflammation

A headache can send pain to different areas of the head such as the temples, forehead or the back of the head and neck. Chiropractic can be a great help to those headaches involving muscle tension and changes in vascular flow. Sinus headaches may be effectively treated as well but may require medical attention in cases of infection.

The three main types of headaches most often found in chiropractic offices are:

  1. Tension Headaches
  2. Cervicogenic Headaches
  3. Migraine Headaches

2 head painTension Headaches

When we become stressed, frightened, or angry, the body will respond with increased muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or head. Repetitive strain such as poor posture at a work is also a common source of muscle tension. Constant muscle tension can cause misalignment of the little bones in the neck called vertebra, which in turn irritate the nerves going up to the head. If stress or postural strain becomes constant in our lives, the muscle tension can become just another habit. All of this can lead to a "muscle tension headache". Chiropractic adjustments along with deep tissue massage help to relax the tight muscles and realign the spine to end this vicious cycle of pain. Tension headache patients often see improvement within just a few treatments as the spine becomes more aligned, the nerves become less irritated and the muscles become more relaxed. If you or a loved one are experiencing tension headaches, contact our office to schedule a no charge, no obligation consultation with the doctor or email Dr. Garber a question concerning your case for a quick response. We are here to help!

Migraine Headaches

Migraines are brought about by changes in vascular flow, triggered by a variety of factors such as different foods, smells, weather, hormonal changes, and stress. These very painful headaches do not always start off as pain. They can begin with nausea or the person may experience a halo effect called a "pre-migraine aura". Chiropractic treatment may play a significant role in reducing the intensity of migraine headache pain and the number of migraines a person has. At times and in certain cases the migraine headaches can be completely eliminated. By careful adjustments to the neck and other areas of the spine, chiropractic care can reduce nerve irritation in the spine, and improve vascular flow to the head. Many migraine sufferers find relief for their headaches through a combination of Chiropractic adjustments and deep tissue massage. Reducing or eliminating "migraine triggers" in certain foods such as chocolate, cheese, wine, coffee and MSG or certain smells such as perfumes, room deodorizers and cleaning chemicals can also be very helpful in certain cases. Certain vitamins and/or herbal supplements can also be helpful in the treatment of Migraine headaches. 

Cervicogenic Headaches

The last type of headache mentioned sounds a bit scary, but it simply means a headache that is coming from irritation of the vertebrae, muscles, or nerves of the neck. Misalignment or as Chiropractors put it "subluxation "of the vertebrae within the neck leads to irritation of the local nerves and muscles. This in turn can cause pain in the back of the neck and head or as far forward as the temples and forehead. Misaligned or subluxated vertebrae occur as a result of trauma such as work or auto related injuries as well common every day stresses and strains from home and sports related activities. Cervicogenic headaches can be helped through a combination of Chiropractic adjustments, deep tissue massage, exercise and appropriate life style changes. 

Treatment Types

Chiropractic treatment for headaches in general centers around the idea of adjusting or manipulating the spinal column and neck to improve posture and blood flow. Adjustments can be done by hand or by the use of very gentle and precise instruments that involve no "cracking" or "popping" to the neck. Along with the adjustments and depending on your situation we may also recommend deep tissue massage, stretching exercises, stress management, dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, and basic changes in posture.

If you, or a loved one, are experiencing pain contact our office to schedule a free NO obligation consultation with the doctor or email Dr. Garber with a question concerning your case for a quick response. Garber Chiropractic Care Center 770-386-7707
Chiropractic Care and Pain Relief for Cartersville, Acworth, Taylorsville, White and Euharlee GA.