Headache
If you have a headache, you're not alone—nine out of ten Americans experience headaches. These headaches can vary in frequency and intensity, ranging from occasional discomfort to frequent, debilitating pain accompanied by nausea. When faced with a throbbing headache, what do you typically do? Do you tough it out, lie down, or take medication in hopes that the pain will subside? There is a more effective alternative.
Research indicates that spinal manipulation, the primary treatment offered by doctors of chiropractic, may effectively alleviate tension headaches and headaches stemming from neck issues. A 2001 report by researchers at the Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center in Durham, NC, revealed that spinal manipulation led to almost immediate improvement in headaches originating in the neck. Furthermore, this treatment produced significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief for tension headaches compared to commonly prescribed medications. A 1995 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics also found that spinal manipulative therapy effectively treats tension headaches. Notably, those who discontinued chiropractic care after four weeks continued to experience benefits, unlike patients who received standard medications.
Headache Triggers:
Headaches can have many causes, or “triggers.” These triggers may include certain foods, environmental factors (such as noise and light), and behavioral factors (such as insomnia, excessive exercise, or fluctuations in blood sugar levels). About 5 percent of headaches are warning signals of underlying physical issues. In contrast, 95 percent of headaches are classified as primary headaches, such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches, which are not caused by any disease. In these cases, the headache itself is the main concern.
According to Dr. George B. McClelland, a chiropractor from Christiansburg, VA, “The vast majority of primary headaches are linked to muscle tension in the neck.” He notes that nowadays Americans tend to engage in more sedentary activities and spend longer periods in fixed postures. This trend can lead to increased joint irritation and muscle tension in the neck, upper back, and scalp, ultimately resulting in headaches.
What Can You Do?
The ACA recommends the following: If you spend a significant amount of time in one fixed position, such as sitting in front of a computer, using a sewing machine, typing, or reading, make sure to take breaks and stretch every 30 minutes to an hour. These stretches should allow your head and neck to move through a comfortable range of motion. Engaging in low-impact exercises may help relieve pain associated with primary headaches. However, if you are prone to dull, throbbing headaches, it is best to avoid heavy exercise. Instead, consider activities like walking and low-impact aerobics.
Additionally, try to avoid clenching your teeth; your upper and lower teeth should not touch except when swallowing. Teeth clenching can create stress on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your jaw to your skull, potentially leading to TMJ irritation and tension headaches. Furthermore, aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to prevent dehydration, which can contribute to headaches.
What Can a Doctor of Chiropractic Do?
Dr. McClelland explains that your chiropractor may take several approaches to help alleviate your primary headaches. This could include performing spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustments to enhance spinal function and reduce stress on your system. They may also provide nutritional advice, suggesting dietary changes and possibly adding B-complex vitamins.
Additionally, chiropractors can offer guidance on posture, ergonomics (work postures), exercises, and relaxation techniques. These recommendations aim to relieve chronic joint irritation and muscle tension in the neck and upper back. "Doctors of chiropractic undergo extensive training to assist their patients in many areas—not just back pain,” says Dr. McClelland. “They understand how tension in the spine can impact other parts of the body and are equipped to help alleviate these issues."
