Headaches

There are many reasons for headaches. They can be caused by dehydration, blood sugar fluctuations, sinus problems, food allergies, nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances. But one common and very treatable cause of headaches is irritation of the joints and muscles of the neck and shoulders. This type of headache is called a muscle tension headache.

Muscle tension headaches can result from injury to the neck, such as a whiplash from an automobile accident, even if the injury was long ago. They can result from chronic poor posture or long hours slouching at the computer. They can be triggered by joint irritation from degenerative changes in the neck as we age, or from weak neck muscles unable to meet the demands of carrying a 10-12 pound head. Whatever the cause, muscle tension headaches respond very well to chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic adjustments improve mobility in the joints of the neck. They reduce inflammation thereby relaxing irritated muscles. All tissues of the head, neck and shoulders experience an increase in blood flow with chiropractic adjustment. Increased blood flow brings greater oxygen and more nutrients to the area. This promotes healing and improves function.

In addition to chiropractic adjustments, there are other ways we have available to alleviate headaches. Stretches and exercises can help normalize muscle tone in the neck and shoulders to improve posture. Postural stress, a common cause of muscle tension headaches, can be treated with chiropractic adjustments and neuro-muscular reeducation. We also offer nutritional supplements, Cranio-Sacral therapy, and a liver detoxification program, all of which can be helpful in addressing headaches.

Don’t just take ibuprofen for your headaches. Over-the-counter pain medication may offer short-term pain relief, but do not address the underlying cause of the problem. These chemicals also have negative effects on your liver and kidneys, the organs that process them. If you’re having frequent headaches, please give us a call. Our treatment is non-invasive and free of toxic side effects.