There are many different types of headaches with a multitude of symptoms. These symptoms include achy, throbbing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, numbness, blinding, noise, light and/or odor sensitivity, and more. The cause of headaches can include genetics, stress or tension, environmental, behavioral, depression, and many more.

Environmental Headaches

Environmental factors can “trigger” the onset of a headache. These factors include allergies, seasonal, bright sunlight, loud noises, and certain foods. About 95% of people who suffer from headaches have “primary headaches” such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. The other 5% can occur from other physical conditions or problems. The 5% of headaches can be potentially dangerous and should be paid attention to when there is a rapid onset. When nervous system symptoms occur that are unusual for that person. They appear as lapses in memory, not responding, rapid onset of dizziness, balance disturbance, and/or a “blinding sharp pain.” These should trigger a warning sign that something specific and potentially dangerous may be causing the headache.

Chiropractic Care for Headaches

For the main 95% of headache sufferers, neck tension is a common complaint with headaches. Research supports that spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), the primary form of care utilized by chiropractors, is an effective option for tension headaches. A 2001 Duke University study reported that SMT resulted in almost immediate improvement for participants with headaches originating in the neck. They experienced fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief than those receiving commonly prescribed medication. This was NOT seen in a similar tension-type headache group receiving prescribed medication treatment only.

Here is how to help yourself:

1. Improve your posture: Most of us are “chin pokers” and “slouchers.” The weight of the head pulls on the neck and upper back muscles when held in that fixed position. This includes driving, typing, and watching TV. The static muscle tension can create a headache.
2. Take “mini-breaks” every 30-45 minutes from static fixed positions and perform some exercises. A good stretch is to reach over to the opposite side of the head and gently pull to stretch the sides of the neck. Repetitively, poke and tuck your chin in & out to stretch different muscle fibers. Then, add flexion, extension, and/or rotation to the same movements for about 10 sec./side. Try it now!
3. Avoid clenching your teeth and shrugging your shoulders. We do these things without being conscious that we’re even doing it. Those static loads play havoc with the neck muscles.
4. Drink plenty of water – at least 8 oz., 8x/day (more when exercising or pregnant). If you want to be more accurate, take your current weight and divide by 2. (Eg., 130# person = 65oz./day; 190# = 95oz./day).
5. If you have chronic headaches, visit your local doctor of chiropractic in North Dallas to see if chiropractic care may help you find relief!