Can Chiropractic Care Relieve Headaches and Migraines?

Chiropractic care involves using spinal manipulation, massages, adjustments, and exercises. The treatment aligns the spine, joints, and muscles. It relieves pressure on the nerves and improves circulation while also dealing with headaches and migraines.

How Do Chiropractors Relieve Headaches and Migraines?

Sometimes, doctors prescribe medication for headaches and migraines. However, these are not a cure since they do not deal with the root cause. Medicine also has side effects that may cause further complications. Consequently, many people who suffer from headaches and migraines opt for contemporary or alternative therapies.

Here is a look at some chiropractic care options for relieving headaches and migraines: 

Cervicogenic Headaches

These begin with one-sided pain. It starts at the back of the head and moves to the front. In addition to the headache, you will notice arm and shoulder pain on the same side. They are the least common type of headache, and they do not respond well to medication. They are the body’s response to a neck injury. Hence, spinal manipulation is ideal in such cases.
 

The chiropractor may also incorporate joint mobilization and deep neck flexion exercises. The two passively move the joints in the cervical spine. Joint mobilization improves movement, while the deep neck exercises stretch and strengthen the muscles and joints.

Tension Headaches

These are more common than the cervicogenic type. Tension headaches result from muscle tension in the head, neck, and shoulders. They often respond to medication. However, a multidisciplinary approach to chiropractic care also works well. These include soft tissue therapy and stress management. They will help deal with the trigger points, relaxing and stretching the muscles.

The chiropractor may also incorporate other forms of therapy like low-load craniocervical mobilization. The technique involves applying gentle force to the joints in the neck. It deals with the cervical segments, allowing rhythmic movement and stretching. The different methods relax the muscles in the cervical area, bringing relief from the headaches.

Migraines

Migraines consist of headaches in addition to other symptoms. These include nausea and dizziness. Medication can work, but you need to be careful as some could lead to dependency. The best treatment option is chiropractic care since migraines often relate to neck pain.

See a chiropractor before taking any medication. They will advise you on the different treatment options for your migraine. They will incorporate neuromuscular massage, stress management, and relaxation techniques to help you get better.

Conclusion

Most treatment plans that chiropractors develop for you will incorporate different techniques. Each will help you deal with various aspects of headaches and migraines. They are effective in dealing with pain and the disability it causes. 

Sometimes, your chiropractor may also suggest that you get dietary counseling. Food has a way of affecting your body and causing headaches and migraines.  Dr. Greenwood is also a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND)* and has extensive experience and training in dietary counseling.

For more information on chiropractic care for headaches and migraines, visit Chiropractor Plus at our office in Nixa, Missouri. You can call (417) 725-6655 today to schedule an appointment.

*Dr. Greenwood maintains his Washington state naturopathic license as Missouri has no licensing for naturopathic doctors.