Headaches and migraines can occur at any time, and are often triggered by stress, poor sleep, or even dietary habits. While painkillers can help to keep the symptoms of headaches and migraines under control, medication does not combat the problem. For those who prefer a more natural approach to health and wellness, chiropractic therapy offers some options.
The American Chiropractic Association reports that about 14% of people in the United States visit the chiropractor for headache relief
(Source: ACAToday.org). Headache sufferers may be able to better control their pain with chiropractic adjustments and sessions that reduce stress, naturally. Since headaches are often caused by too much tension in the neck, shoulders and upper back, a chiropractor can help release excess tension in these areas, thereby reducing the risk of a headache or migraine.
How a Chiropractic Doctor Treats Headaches
The American Chiropractic Association reports that a
chiropractic doctor can perform a variety of adjustments and spinal manipulation that improve spinal function, and focuses on reducing stress on the nervous system. Chiropractic doctors can also:
- Provide nutritional guidance to reduce the risk of stress on the nervous system because of a nutritional imbalance or deficiency
- Provide advice on posture
- Show the patient how to perform relaxation exercises
- Help to reduce joint irritation
- Reduce stress in the muscles around the neck and upper back areas
Ultimately, the chiropractic doctor will help to resolve problems associated with the spine to improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic headaches. Since most headaches are the result of tension in the neck and upper back muscles, it’s important to release tension in these areas and improve range of motion on a regular basis. A combination of chiropractic therapy and stretching exercises can help to increase range of motion in these critical areas.
Other Natural Methods for Managing Headaches
In addition to scheduling regular chiropractic sessions, there are several ways to reduce muscle tension that may be triggering a migraine, naturally. Natural methods for managing headaches include:
- Stretching the head and neck regularly
- Engaging in low-impact exercises
- Eating a well-balanced diet
- Drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water per day
- Breaking the habit of clenching the teeth
- Getting regular massage sessions to reduce stress
- Undergoing yoga or pilates regularly for stress relief
- Exercising good posture habits
In many cases, a combination of chiropractic therapy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce or eliminate the need to take painkillers. Chiropractic therapy helps to release tension originating in the neck and upper back, and is a natural, painless treatment that offers a multitude of benefits beyond migraine or headache relief. Regular chiropractic therapy can help to improve overall health, increase feelings of well-being, and improve nervous system functioning.
If you are suffering from frequent headaches or migraines, consult with a
chiropractor in your area. He or she will be able to conduct a thorough examination and x-ray assessment to create a treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Published: 09/25/2009, Last Updated: 09/25/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.