Headaches are a common complaint in the U.S. According to the American Chiropractic Association, approximately 90 percent of American adults experience headaches on an occasional or chronic basis. Headaches affect everyone differently, varying in severity, duration and the area of the head in which they occur. Though many people take over the counter medications to manage their pain, chiropractic treatment can address headaches at their source, reducing their frequency and intensity.
The vast majority of headaches fall into one of two categories – migraines or tension headaches. The more common of the two are tension headaches, which are often described as dull, aching and the sensation of tightening around the forehead, temples and into the back of the head, neck and shoulders. Tension headaches are often triggered by stress and anxiety, though they may also occur as a result of muscle strain or subluxations in the upper back.
Migraines differ from tension headaches, in that they may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, sensitivity to light, changes in vision, and pain behind one eye. Migraines are often sharp, intense and can last in some people for many hours or even days at a time. The causes of migraines are more complex, though lifestyle and external factors often play a role in their onset.
Treatment for Headaches and Migraines in Herndon, VA
If you experience occasional or frequent headaches, you may not need to rely on pain medication the rest of your life. Many people have enjoyed a dramatic improvement in headache symptoms simply by seeking out chiropractic treatment. In fact, chiropractic has been shown to be a highly effective way of treating headaches.
When you visit our office, we will assess your overall health, including the position and posture of your spine and neck. We will use gentle manipulation to adjust the cervical structure of the spine and neck, reducing pressure on nerve pathways that are often responsible for triggering headache pain. We may also utilize other tools, such as massage, to reduce muscle strain and improve circulation. Often, people with tension headaches experience relief almost immediately after chiropractic treatment.
If you suffer from migraines, lifestyle changes may be necessary to reduce their frequency and identify habitual or environmental components that may be causing them. For example, many of our patients find that things like poor sleep, chronic stress, caffeine, food allergies and even certain smells can trigger the onset of a migraine. Eliminating migraine triggers, improving musculoskeletal health and embracing healthy habits like exercise and increased water intake can reduce migraine discomfort and make a significant difference in overall quality of life.
RxWellness Spine & Health treats headaches and migraines in Herndon, Reston, Sterling, Chantilly, and the surrounding VA areas. Contact us today at 703-904-9666. Our friendly staff will be happy to schedule a consultation and help you begin your journey toward a pain-free life.