Not all headaches are the same. There are many causes of headaches and several different types of headaches; determining the type and what is causing them is the first step to relief.
The two most common headaches that we treat at my chiropractic office in Springfield, VA, are tension and muscular headaches. First let’s look at the characteristics of a tension headache. The tension-type headache is described as less intense than a migraine, yet a feeling of tightness around the head along with throbbing pain and neck soreness.
Tension headaches typically begin during the afternoon and may be aggravated by emotional or physical stress. If you suffer from this type of headache, you are not alone. Tension headaches are the most common type of head pain. An estimated 75% of the population are suffering with headaches.
The other type of headache that is common is the muscular or muscle tension headache. These headaches as the tension headaches are extremely painful. The majority originate from the neck. Neck trauma, such as whiplash or falls will significantly increase the risk of this type of headache. Since it originates from the neck it is also known to be called a cervicogenic headache. The risk of developing this headache after a fall or injury is very strong, even if years have passed since the injury occurred.
A third, more serious headache is called a “migraine headache”. A migraine is a periodic attack of headaches on one or both sides of the head. They are sually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity of the eyes to light (photophobia), increased sensitivity to sound (phonophobia), dizziness , blurred vision, cognitive disturbances, and other symptoms.
If you suffer from these or any other type of headache, stop living with the pain. By seeking chiropractic care you may avert headaches for good. Chiropractors will go to the source of the headache to stop them before they begin. Tension-type headaches have been linked to spinal conditions referred to as spinal subluxations. Subluxations are areas in the spine where the movement is restricted or bones are out of alignment. Chiropractic adjustments will restore motion to these areas, creating a spinal alignment, removing subluxations and eliminating a major risk factor for tension-type headaches.
Although many will resort to popping a pill to alleviate the symptom of a headache, visiting your Chiropractor is much safer and more effective. Consistent use of drugs, even the seemingly harmless over-the-counter remedies can actually produce a condition known as analgesic-rebound headache. Analgesic means pain reliever, and no one is immune to this disorder; it can affect adults as well as children. Some experts also believe that continuous use of painkillers may cause changes in the brain, resulting in a lowered pain threshold.
Chiropractic care is more effective and safer than many drugs for headache pain. Chiropractic care is also a safer and more effective way to alleviate the neck pain associated with cervicogenic or muscular tension headaches. Chiropractors will discover the root of the headaches and treat the root which in turn will alleviate the symptom which is the headache pain. Even frequent headaches can negatively affect your outlook and your productivity, at home or at work. Instead of reaching for the drugs, reach for a safer and more effective form of relief. Call us today at (703) 912-7822 or visit us at http://www.NovaChiroWellness.com and rid yourself from headaches the natural and safe way.
