Headaches are among the most common disorders related to the central nervous system, with 50% of American adults experiencing at least one headache yearly. For many others, headaches can be chronic and severely impact everyday life.
There are over 150 types of headaches, but the most common include five headaches that your chiropractor can effectively treat with routine adjustments.
1. Tension Headache: A tension headache is the most common type of headache affecting adults. Most people describe a tension headache as their head being squeezed in a vice. This type of headache originates in the scalp muscles – that is if there is a misalignment in the spine, the muscles at the base of the skull may become pulled. This constant tugging can tighten the muscles on top of the head, resulting in a tension headache. This is one of the most obvious situations in which a chiropractor can help to treat a headache without medication. When the spine is aligned correctly, the muscles no longer feel that tension – and the pain will dissipate.
2. Cluster Headache: A cluster headache develops when facial nerves have sustained some form of damage on inflation. The headache manifests only on one side of the face or head. On the affected side, the individual may experience twitching, sweating, and paralysis in the facial area. Some patients report that their eyes start watering and tearing up, and their nose begins to run – but again, only on one side. These headaches can be excruciating and annoying, given the symptoms.
3. Sinus Headache: One of the most frequently occurring headaches is a sinus headache, originating in the multiple sinuses located behind the nasal passages. If these sinuses become filled with fluid, the individual may feel increased pain and pressure in the head. Even though a sinus headache can be exceptionally uncomfortable, a chiropractor has several treatment options to help eliminate the conditions causing the sinuses to become blocked.
4. Eyestrain and Posture Headaches: Eye strain occurs when someone spends excessive time in front of their TVs, computers, or other devices. Eyestrain headaches are often aggravated by posture issues, as those who use screens also tend to exhibit poor neck positioning and sit for long periods of time.
5. Migraine Headache: Migraines are the types of headache that most often cause someone to seek medical intervention. There are two types of migraine headaches, which can be equally devastating. A migraine with aura is characterized by an early warning signal that the migraine is imminent – such as a flashing light, blurry vision, or strange odor. A migraine without aura appears without warning. Migraine headaches can cause nausea, vomiting, and an aversion to bright lights and loud noises. Migraines often last several hours, but many people suffer for days. The good news is that a chiropractor can help to alleviate the incidence of migraines.
Chiropractic Treatment to Prevent Headaches
If you suffer from chronic headaches, they can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, there are other options besides downing handfuls of painkillers. A chiropractor will work with the patient to identify and treat the root cause of the headaches and prevent future episodes – not just dull the pain.
A chiropractor can locate and identify subluxations and vertebrae misalignments by utilizing specifically targeted chiropractic adjustments.
Dr. Ryan Johnson is committed to helping Sarasota area residents eliminate headache pain without drugs or surgery. If you experience frequent headaches, you no longer need to suffer. Call today for an initial appointment and assessment – Dr. Johnson and his team are here to help you get back to living life pain-free.
