Headaches can make functioning each day a major challenge. A chiropractor can treat many types of headaches through treatments such as chiropractic adjustments to the neck. This article discusses how a chiropractor can help with headaches and when you should consider a visit to one.
The following are some things to know about headache relief from a chiropractor, including the different types of headaches, treatment options, at-home remedies, and more. This information may help you make informed decisions about chiropractic care for headache relief.
There are three primary types of headaches — migraines, tension headaches, and cervicogenic headaches. Tension headaches can be described as a tight band wrapped around the head, placing tension and causing discomfort. A migraine headache mostly occurs on one side of the head and may cause sensitivity to light and/or nausea. Lastly, cervicogenic headaches are similar to tension headaches, but the cause is typically related to neck complications or stress.
There are many possible causes of headaches. Often, headaches are the result of built-up pressure and/or certain types of misalignments. This pressure and misalignment can overwhelm the nervous system, and the chemical signals lead to what we know as a headache. By relieving the pressure and improving alignment, in many cases, patients are able to relieve the symptoms of their headaches and migraines.
The most common treatment for headaches is a chiropractic adjustment, or spinal manipulation, of the neck or back. Often, vertebrae that are out of place can place pressure on nerves, which contributes to or leads to headaches. By correcting the alignment of the spine, the frequency and severity of headaches are often reduced. Other treatments that a chiropractor may recommend to treat headaches include soft tissue therapy, electrical stimulation, acupuncture, ultrasound therapy, rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications, and dietary changes.
Lifestyle changes are often a part of the long-term headache prevention plan put in place by the chiropractor. Lifestyle changes that may be recommended include:
The recommended lifestyle changes vary for each person based on their current lifestyle and what they have tried in the past. A prevention plan can be established over the course of the first few chiropractic visits.
If your headaches occur frequently or are getting progressively worse when they do occur, then treatment from a chiropractor may help. Headache relief from a chiropractor is especially recommended for those who have not found relief through other treatment methods, such as over-the-counter medications or treatment from a primary care doctor.
The number of chiropractic visits that are required to relieve headaches long-term varies for each patient. Most chiropractors recommend a dozen or more visits over the course of several months to help correct alignment and relieve headaches and related symptoms. Regular adjustments may also be recommended once every few months once the headaches go away to help prevent future concerns.
Every treatment plan from a chiropractor is personalized according to the patient’s specific needs. Chiropractors usually begin with an assessment of the patient’s symptoms and their medical history; they may also evaluate the patient’s lifestyle routine and diet as well. This information can help the chiropractor put together a comprehensive treatment plan that may include chiropractic procedures, lifestyle changes, dietary improvements, and alternative therapies (e.g., soft tissue therapy).
Many patients report feeling better after the first or second session. However, for others, results can take time, and it is important to remain patient and stick with the treatment plan. In many cases, it can take up to several weeks before significant relief from chronic headaches. Chiropractic professionals take a long-term approach to headache relief, rather than simply treating the initial discomfort and sending you on your way.
Contact us today if you are experiencing headaches that do not improve on their own or become severe. We can help you determine the cause of your headaches and find the right treatment solution. Our chiropractor and staff offer a range of services that often help people dealing with chronic headaches.
Get more information here: https://sjrm-tn.com or call Spine & Joint Regenerative Medicine at (423) 424-1529
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