A large number of patients first consulting a chiropractor, do so for headaches or migraines. It is estimated that 80% of headaches have their origin in the cervical spine (neck). This is largely because of misaligned or stiff joints in the neck, or muscle tension due to stress. Chiropractic treatment is the treatment of choice for many sufferers and often brings rapid relief. The goal is to remedy the underlying cause of the problem, as opposed to taking pills for the symptoms.
 

Muscular Tension or Stress Headaches
These are the largest cause of repetitive headaches and are often referred to as muscle tension headaches (MTH).  They are common when stressed and in those who spend long hours sitting.  Spinal posture, a reduced curve, sleeping incorrectly, emotional tension, whiplash or other neck injuries, can all contribute to MTH.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Suboccipital Headaches
These headaches tend to be focused at the base of the skull and behind the ear.   Spasms of pain can appear with head movements and the scalp may be hypersensitive.  They are usually caused by misaligned vertebrae in the neck. 

Vascular Headaches and Migraine
Theses include migraines and hypertension headaches. They are usually experienced as a throbbing, pulsating type of pain, often behind one eye. Migraines are often recurring due to a misaligned upper cervical vertebrae (C1-2).

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TMJ Headaches
The jaw, or temporomandibular joint, is another source of frontal headaches.  The pain is often experienced around the jaw joint or temple and is a steady, dull ache.  The chiropractor may need to treat both the jaw and neck to relieve the problem.  A splint or dental work may be necessary.

 

Chemical and Cluster Headaches
These usually relate to nutritional and other chemical imbalances in the body.   The pain is generalised and is often present on awakening.  They often decrease with exercise.  Various elimination or detoxification diets may relieve these
headaches.  It may be necessary to have a blood test. Cluster migraines can be absent for months or years at a time, then strike hard for several weeks. Treatment often breaks the cycle. 

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Sinus Headache and Sinusitis
These are dull, gnawing pains over the sinuses.  They often begin in the morning and worsen with the day.  They are known to increase with weather changes that affect barometric pressure. Many patients find that chiropractic treatment is very beneficial to both sinus headaches and sinusitis. Treatment involves working on the involved sinuses (massage type stimulation), adjustment of the upper neck vertebrae and stimulation of the glands in the upper neck (lymph drainage).