Headaches can be described as pain around the head or upper neck area in a particular spot involving the entire head.
Patients can describe it in a range of ways from pulsating or throbbing, to sharp, constant or intermittent.
Headaches may start suddenly (acute) or be chronic in nature.Â
There are many different causes. The most common are:
1. Tension Type
Tension headaches are a tight band-like pressure around the head.
They can be caused by emotional or physical stress. They can also be caused from Neck & shoulder tension.
2. Cervical (Cervicogenic)Â
This type come from the neck (cervical spine) and approximately 10-18% are this cause.
It can be caused from tension in the muscles or joints in the neck, shoulder or upper back area.
3. Migraine Type
These usually occur on one side of head and around one eye.
They can have many triggers and sometimes their exact cause is unknown, but we do know that they can run in families.
Migraines can occur with or without an Aura – these are symptoms as the migraine builds up.
Aura symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sensitivity to sound.
Chiropractors are experienced in treating Headaches which originate from the Neck (Cervical Spine).Â
They are best managed with a combination of treatments:
– Manual Therapy (manipulations)
– Muscle releases
– Traction (stretching therapy)
– Advice on exercises & stretches
– Pillow ergonomics
– Desk ergonomics
– Stress management
– Posture advice & strengthening
It is important to distinguish what type of headache you have in order to get the appropriate treatment.
Please seek the advice our your Health Professional for individual assessment on your case.
– Take regular breaks from a seated/desk position
– Increase your daily exercise to at least 30 – 40 mins of moderate level activity
– Increase your water intake
– Add in upper body & neck strengthening exercises into your routine
– Get an appropriate amount of sleep each night (7-9 hours for an adult)
– Get a good quality supportive pillowÂ
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