Headaches often treated by doctors of chiropractic
by SCOTT FINLEY D.C. - Chiropractic Physician Stevensville
Headaches are more common in adults, although they may develop at any time in anyone. Approximately four out of five children have headaches at some point, but most are benign and self-resolving. In fact, many adults who suffer from headaches report having the first headache in childhood.
Headache symptoms usually begin gradually. In fact, the sudden onset of headaches may signify a serious problem and requires immediate medical attention.
Common headaches are often described as achy, dull or throbbing pain. It typically begins at the base of the skull and may radiate into the eye(s), temple or other locations. Headaches may be felt on one or both sides of the head. Often loud noises or bright lights may make them worse.
Some patients may become nauseated or experience odd smells, sounds or sights before and during the headache episode.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important in identifying a serious underlying cause of your headache. In most cases, an in-depth history and physical examination can help determine if your symptoms are related to an easily treated problem or something more serious.
Common diagnostic studies would include X-rays and lab tests. Less commonly, CAT scan, MRI or other in-depth studies may be required to further evaluate headaches. Most headaches can properly be evaluated with a proper case history, exam and X-ray study. Most headaches (98 percent) are cervicogenic. That is having an origin in the neck.
Headache treatment is cause related. Doctors of chiropractic often treat patients with tension-type headaches and headaches caused by the problems of the cervical joints and muscles in the neck.
Joint manipulation of the neck, along with stretching and strengthening exercises, has been proven the most effective treatment for benign headaches.
Massage and other forms of soft-tissue treatment can also be effective.
Serious causes of headache may require aggressive treatment, and your doctor of chiropractic is more than qualified to help you find a competent medical specialist. The vast majority of patients with headache recover completely after chiropractic treatment. Unfortunately, the recurrence rate is relatively high, particularly with tension-type headache if a proper treatment protocol is not followed.
Sometimes headaches can be prevented. We have found the following recommendations have been helpful:
• Avoid slouching
• Avoid reading with your neck bent forward
• Keep your computer monitor at eye level
• Take frequent breaks from reading and working on the computer
• Try a low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate diet. A recent study demonstrated that such a diet can dramatically lower the frequency, intensity and/or duration of migraine headaches
If you have any questions or concerns about headache, feel free to discuss them with your chiropractic physician.
Questions or comments can be addressed to Scott Finley D.C. at Finley Chiropractic 419 Main Street Stevensville, Mt. 59870 or through his website www.finleywellness.com
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