Is There a Fix for my Headaches, or Is Ibuprofen my Only Option?

Is There a Fix for my Headaches, or Is Ibuprofen my Only Option?

For some people, headaches are a part of their everyday life. They wake up and at some point, expect their headache to come back, if it’s not already there. The only fix in their mind is to take Ibuprofen or Tylenol and hope for the best. However, did you know that the most common types of headaches can be treated and often  fixed with Chiropractic care? Below, I will discuss a common type of headache you may be experiencing. 

Cervicogenic Headache (CGH) is a common type of headache that originates from the cervical spine, which is located in the neck. The most common causes of CGH are poor posture, whiplash, degenerative changes in the cervical spine, cervical spine arthritis, cervical disc disease, and muscle strain in the neck. These conditions can lead to irritation and inflammation of the nerves and blood vessels in the neck, causing pain that is felt in the head. 
 
What are the symptoms? 

Symptoms of CGH may include a one-sided dull, aching pain that can spread to the forehead, temple, and behind the eyes. The pain can also be triggered by certain movements of the neck or by maintaining a certain position for an extended period of time. Patients may also experience neck pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion.  
 
Diagnosing CGH can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other types of headaches. However, a thorough physical examination can help to distinguish CGH from other headache types. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans, may also be used to assess the cervical spine and rule out other potential causes of headache. 
 
What is treatment like? 

The treatment of CGH is focused on reducing pain and inflammation in the cervical spine. As a Chiropractor, I believe in a holistic approach that includes chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy and other interventions. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment of the cervical spine and reduce tension in the muscles surrounding the neck. This can improve blood flow and nerve function and reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may include exercises to improve the range of motion in the neck, as well as stretching and strengthening exercises for the neck muscles. Other interventions may include massage therapy, Graston technique, electrotherapies, ultrasound, laser and lifestyle modifications such as changes in diet and exercise habits.  

At Stern Chiropractic Clinic in Pensacola, Dr. Stern and I (Dr. Caleb Heifner) work closely with our patients to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. Together, we can develop a treatment plan that helps to reduce your pain and improve your quality of life. We are trained to diagnose all types of headaches and can help whether you are experiencing cervicogenic headaches, migraines or some other kind. Just give us a call Monday through Friday at (850)435-9200 to start treating your pain.  

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