New year, new goals but maybe the same headache? If you haven’t seen a Chiropractor yet about it, it might be a good idea to meet with one. Headaches are one of the most common issues people have and it doesn’t matter what occupation you have. There’s a few different types of headaches that Chiropractors can help with:
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches often present in a band like form around your head. Often times it’s increased with stress related activities or events.
Migraines
Migraines usually present with pain on one side of the head and can commonly be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Some patients present with changes to their vision as well or see halos right before they are about to get a Migraine (aura).
Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches often present as the neck being the source of the problem but the pain can be in one or more areas of the head and/or face. The causes of these headaches are not always well understood but, a family history of headaches, neck stiffness, and stress are common factors.
Now that we know what types of headaches there are, you might be thinking “I don’t want to get my neck adjusted”. That’s fine. Chiropractors can help with headaches in multiple ways. Here’s a few things we can do:
- Neck adjustments – manual or with an instrument
- Soft tissue therapy – ie working on the muscles around your skull, neck and shoulders to release trigger points
- Recommend lifestyle changes/tips to help prevent headaches e.g. Ergonomics for work, pillow, ice/heat instructions, stretches etc
- Modalities such as E-stim, US, interferential
- Referral or co-manage with other health care professionals
It’s important to pay attention to headaches as they can be a serious issue. Chiropractors will perform a proper exam for your neck and upper back to help pinpoint what may be the root cause of your headache and what we can do for it. If your Chiropractor doesn’t do any sort of assessment for your headache you have two options; you can ask them politely to do it or you can get a second opinion.
If your headache is quickly becoming severe, accompanied by fever, stiff neck, weakness, trouble speaking, blurry vision, nausea and numbness, seek medical attention immediately.
If you would like to schedule an appointment with me click here to book online for a Chiropractic appointment in Winnipeg.
