Eaton Chiropractic CENTER

HEadaches

If you have a headache, you're not alone. Nine out of ten Americans suffer from headaches. Some are occasional, some frequent, some are dull and throbbing, and some cause debilitating pain and nausea. 

What do you do when you suffer from a pounding headache? Do you grit your teeth and carry on? Lie down? Pop a pill and hope the pain goes away? There is a better alternative. 

New research shows that spinal adjustments -  may be an effective treatment option for tension headaches and headaches that originate in the neck

Headache Triggers

But to get to the bottom of the problem, you first need to find out what is causing your pain. Headaches have many causes, or "triggers." These may include foods, environmental stimuli (noises, lights, stress, etc.) and/or behaviors (insomnia, excessive exercise, blood sugar changes, etc.). About 5 percent of all headaches are warning signals caused by physical problems. 

Ninety-five percent of headaches are primary headaches, such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. These types of headaches are not caused by disease. The headache itself is the primary concern. 

  • Causes of Headaches

    The greatest majority of primary headaches are associated with muscle tension in the neck . Today, Americans engage in more sedentary activities than they used to, and more hours are spent in one fixed position or posture. This can increase joint irritation and muscle tension in the neck, upper back and scalp, causing your head to ache.

  • What Else Can I Do?

    If you spend a large amount of time in one fixed position, such as in front of a computer, on a sewing machine, typing or reading, take a break and stretch every 30 minutes to one hour. 


    The stretches should take your head and neck through a comfortable range of motion.


    Low-impact exercise may help relieve the pain associated with primary headaches. However, if you are prone to dull, throbbing headaches, avoid heavy exercise. 


    Engage in such activities as walking and low-impact aerobics.


    Avoid teeth clenching. The upper teeth should never touch the lowers, except when swallowing. 


    This results in stress at the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) - the two joints that connect your jaw to your skull - leading to TMJ irritation and a form of tension headaches.


    Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to help avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches.

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How Chiropractic Can Help

Adjustments may be an effective care option for tension headaches and headaches that start in the neck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about our service? Do not hesitate to give us a call and also consult our list of frequently asked questions!

  • Food Triggers

    Avoid caffeine. Foods such as chocolate, coffee, sodas and cocoa contain high levels of the stimulant.


    Avoid foods with a high salt or sugar content. These foods may cause migraines, resulting in sensitivity to light, noise, or abrupt movements.


    Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. These drinks can dehydrate you and cause headache pain.


    Other headache sufferers may want to avoid not only caffeine, but also high-protein foods, dairy products, red meat and salty foods.

  • Will Exercise Help?

    The stretches should take your head and neck through a comfortable range of motion. 


    Low-impact exercise may help relieve the pain associated with primary headaches. 


    However, if you are prone to dull, throbbing headaches, avoid heavy exercise. 


    Engage in such activities as walking and low-impact aerobics.

  • Dehydration and Headaches

    Hydration and Rest: Adequate hydration and rest are crucial for the body’s recovery after an adjustment. Drinking plenty of water and allowing the body time to rest can facilitate the adjustment process and minimize headaches.


    Gentle Stretches and Relaxation: Engaging in gentle stretches and relaxation exercises can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, thereby alleviating headaches.

Book an Appointment

If you’re suffering from headaches, we want to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
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