Many people have experienced the occasional headache, but for some, headaches can be persistent and debilitating. Chiropractic care is often a recommended treatment option for certain types of headaches such as tension-type, cervicogenic, and migraine headaches.
Tension-Type Headache
Tension headaches are fairly common but can be a chronic issue for some people. This type of headache is associated with muscular tension or stiffness in the neck and upper back. Pain is often described as squeezing or pressure like one is wearing a headband across the forehead or can be felt at the base of the skull. Some risk factors for tension-type headaches: general stress or emotional distress, lack of sleep, sustained postures or prior neck injury.
Cervicogenic Headache
As the name suggests, 
cervicogenic headache refers to a headache of cervical (neck) origin, typically due to an injury. Generally neck pain occurs before or during the headache and can be aggravated by specific neck movements. This type of headache is usually felt in the base of the skull and radiates up one side of the head and/or behind the eye. Some risk factors for cervicogenic headaches: neck injury such as a whiplash injury, arthritis, occupations that require sustained head postures.
Migraine Headache
Migraine headaches can be 
moderate-to-severe in terms of pain and frequently disabling. It is thought that migraines are caused by dilation and constriction of the blood vessels in the head. They are often described as a throbbing or pulsing pain that is one-sided on the head/face, behind the eye, and/or neck. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, light and sound sensitivity is common. Some get visual auras prior to the headache. There are many possible “triggers” for those who suffer from migraines: stress, hormonal changes, blood sugar changes, certain foods/drinks, allergies, certain medications.
Our chiropractors here at Creekside Dynamic Health in Vernon provide various treatment options for those experiencing headaches and often use a combination of techniques.
- Soft tissue/muscle release therapy
- Chiropractic adjustments including lower force alternatives such as mobilizations and activator.
- Lifestyle and home care recommendations -> this is especially important as the success of any treatment relies on the patient playing an active role.
