Headaches

2011-PICS-701-150x150.jpgHeadaches are one of the most common ailments that people experience. The most common type of headache is the tension headache. This type of headache is caused by irritation of the tissues of the upper neck and base of the skull. Usually the pain starts at the back of the head and can spread to the temple, the forehead and the eye. The pain can range from mildly annoying to very severe. Causes of a tension headache range from heavy work to sitting and looking at a computer screen for hours at a time. Fortunately, they responds well to chiropractic care. Gentle manipulation to the back and upper neck relieves the stresses that are causing the headache in the first place.

The next most common type of headache is called a migraine. There are various causes of migraines, which typically are throbbing headaches. While more difficult to treat, very often chiropractic care can eliminate the need for medication. Therefore, all of the bad side effects of drugs are also eliminated. Often we combine chiropractic manipulation with acupuncture in the treatment of migraines.

Evaluation of the cause of your headache includes a careful history as well as a neurologic examination. Once we have determined the nature of your headache we can discuss a treatment plan that works for you. If it is determined that your headaches are due to a medical condition, we have a Medical Doctor on staff that can examine you.

When is a headache more than a headache? There are some headaches that require emergency care. If your headache starts suddenly and is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, weakness, blurred vision or slurred speech, you should go to the nearest emergency room.