Chiropractic Care for Headaches
Are headaches starting to take a toll on your day-to-day life? Is enjoying time with friends and family beginning ruined by painful migraines? Stop living in pain! Our chiropractor in Ronkonkoma can give you the help you need today! Contact LI Integrated today and start your treatment!
Different Types of Headaches
Headaches and their accompanying symptoms can be debilitating. They are also one of the most common complaints we see in our office. In many cases, chiropractic treatment can be the key to unlocking relief. Within the term “headache” lies different types of headaches, each with their own causes and symptoms. Common types of headaches include:
Cervicogenic headaches - This type of headache is caused by a structural issue in the neck, specifically within the cervical vertebrae at the top of the spine. It is commonly developed in people whose jobs place a strain on their neck. Other conditions such as arthritis, whiplash, or another neck injury may also be causing this. Cervicogenic headaches are often experienced as pain beginning in the neck/back of the head and may also be accompanied by pain around the eyes, painful movement of the neck, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraines - Migraine is a neurological condition causing throbbing pain and often other debilitating symptoms including vomiting/nausea, ringing in the ears, intolerance of light and sound, and visual changes like flashes of light, spots, or wavy vision. There isn’t a universal answer as to the cause of migraines. Several triggers may be contributing to your condition, including stress, hormonal changes, food or sleep disturbances, weather, and odors. There is also a large genetic component to migraines. Your risk of experiencing a migraine triples if you have relatives who also suffer from them.
Tension headaches - A tension headache consists of dull head pain and pressure on either side of the forehead. The difference between tension headaches and migraines lies in the symptoms. Tension headaches do not cause vomiting or nausea and rarely leads to sensory sensitivity. Numerous factors may contribute to this type of headache including eye strain, diet, fatigue, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, or a sinus infection.
How can a chiropractor help?
To treat a cervicogenic headache, our chiropractor in Ronkonkoma may utilize spinal manipulation (adjustments) and/or joint mobilization to realign the upper part of the spine in the neck, also known as the cervical spine. The purpose of this therapy is to restore pain-free motion to the neck. You may also be prescribed exercises to stretch and strengthen the deep neck flexors. This group of muscles is responsible for your simple, everyday movements such as turning your head or nodding. Working on these muscles facilitates better posture and support for the neck.
Some of the most effective treatments for migraines include neuromuscular massage and multidisciplinary care intervention. Neuromuscular massage consists primarily of trigger point therapy, applying pressure with the fingers, knuckles, or elbow. This helps release lactic acid from the muscles and promotes the flow of blood and oxygen. Efforts are typically focused on the back, shoulder, and neck. Multidisciplinary care involves incorporating physical therapy exercises, stress management and relaxation techniques, and nutritional counseling to improve overall health and reduce the risk of experiencing migraines.
In the case of tension headaches, your chiropractor may perform adjustments to alleviate any stress and pressure within the spine. They may also incorporate diet or postural advice and recommend targeted exercises to avoid recurring irritation on the joints in your upper back and neck.
If you’re searching for the most effective and natural treatment for your headache, look no further than LI Integrated in Ronkonkoma! Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal full-body health. Visit our website or give us a call at (631) 738 - 9539 to schedule your first appointment and see how we can help you!