Splitting headaches? Excruciating migraines? Visiting a Perth chiro may help.
One of the common misconceptions about Perth chiros is that we only treat back pain.
But we actually see patients for many reasons, including headaches.
How can a Perth chiro help with your headache? Your spinal cord connects other parts of your body to your head, so if there’s a problem along your spine, pain sensors surrounding the area will travel to your head.
Headaches can be caused by a neck injury where the soft tissue has become inflamed, or from muscle tension around your spine as a result of stress, lack of exercise, or poor posture.
Different types of headaches
There are a few different types of headaches. Some headaches chiropractors can help treat, others may need other forms of treatment.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most common headache. They can feel like a vice gripping your head – very uncomfortable! Tension headaches are caused by a buildup of tension in your muscles. They can be a result of many factors such as stress, sadness, postural problems, lifestyle (sitting at a desk too long), and lack of sleep.
Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic Headaches are headaches originating from the cervical vertebrae (neck bones) or muscles in your neck. If your neck is strained due to injury or repetitive movement, the nerve endings become sensitive and this pain radiates to your head. This type of headache often starts at the back of your head before spreading.
Migraines
Migraines are the most severe type of headache. They can be extremely painful and can include loss of vision, vomiting, and dizziness. Some of our patients have to take a day or two off when they get a migraine. It’s hard to tell the cause of migraines, but they often are triggered by stress, tension and lack of sleep.
Sinus Headache
Sinus headaches are due to inflammation of the sinuses (air-filled spaces inside your forehead, cheekbones, and nose). Patients who suffer from hayfever may be susceptible to sinus headaches in spring from the pollen in the air. Sinus headaches often feel like pressure in the forehead and under the eyes.
How can your Perth chiro help?
A Perth chiro can help treat headaches by manipulating the spine to correct misalignment, release nerve tension, ease any stress from compression of joints, and allow more blood flow to the head from the neck.
We can also help you make changes to your lifestyle to avoid the many triggers of headaches. There are stretches and exercises you can do to avoid tension building up around your neck and travelling into your head.
Here are some tips to avoid headaches:
Integrating regular low-impact exercise in your life
Stretching out your back and neck
Getting up from your desk and walking around
Drinking enough water
Engaging in activities that reduce stress (whatever that means to you!)