Headaches affect just about everyone at some point, and they can present in many different ways. Some people experience pain only in one part of their head or behind their eyes; others feel a pounding sensation throughout the whole head.
Tension Headaches
Tension-type headaches are the most common, affecting upwards of 75% of all headache sufferers. Most people describe them as a constant dull, achy feeling on one or both sides of the head, often like a tight band or dull ache around the head or behind the eyes. These headaches usually begin slowly and gradually, and can last minutes or days — in chronic cases, many months.
Tension headaches are often the result of stress or poor posture, which stresses the spine and muscles in the upper back and neck. The most common cause is subluxations in the upper back and neck, especially the upper neck, usually combined with active trigger points. When the top cervical vertebrae lose their normal motion or position, a small muscle called the rectus capitis posterior minor goes into spasm. Chiropractic care helps address these symptoms.
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches are intense, throbbing headaches often associated with nausea and sensitivity to light or noise. They can last from a few hours to a few days. Many migraine sufferers experience visual symptoms called an “aura” just before an attack, often described as flashing lights or a dream-like quality to their vision.
Chiropractic Care for Headaches
Numerous research studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments are very effective for treating headaches, especially those that originate in the neck. Each case is different and requires a thorough evaluation before determining the proper course of care. In most cases of tension headaches, significant improvement comes through manipulation of the upper two cervical vertebrae, coupled with adjustments to the junction between the cervical and thoracic spine. This approach is also helpful in most cases of migraine headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a tension headache and a migraine?
Tension headaches typically feel like a constant dull ache or tight band around the head, while migraines are intense and throbbing, often with nausea, light/noise sensitivity, and sometimes a visual “aura” before the attack.
Can chiropractic care help with migraines?
Yes. Research shows chiropractic adjustments — particularly to the upper cervical spine and the cervical-thoracic junction — can be effective for both tension headaches and migraines that originate in the neck.
What causes tension headaches?
Most often, subluxations in the upper neck combined with active trigger points, frequently triggered or worsened by stress and poor posture.
How long do tension headaches typically last?
They can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days; in chronic cases, they may persist for months.
Do I need an evaluation before starting chiropractic treatment for headaches?
Yes. Each case is different, and a thorough evaluation helps determine the most effective, individualized course of care.