Headache & Migraine Treatment FAQ
Millions of people suffer from headaches and migraines every day. If you’re one of them, Family Life Chiropractic provides treatment for headaches as part of our alternative health services.
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about headaches and migraines, along with our answers. Please contact or call us today if your question isn’t answered here.
What Causes Headaches?
Headache is a general term to describe head, neck, or face pain. There are many types, but the most common are tension, sinus, and cluster headaches.
Various factors can cause headaches, including but not limited to environmental factors, underlying conditions, and stress. In many cases, headaches are triggered by muscle tension in the neck — usually after spending too long at a desk or behind a computer screen.
What Causes Migraines?
Migraines are a type of headache that affects one side of the head. Some triggers are more common than others, including the following:
- Weather conditions
- Allergies
- Overexposure to the sun
- Strong odors
- Lack of sleep
- Stress
- Too much alcohol
- Certain foods
- Gender and hormonal shifts
- Genetics
Headache and migraine triggers are unique to each person. What affects one person may not trigger headaches or migraines in someone else.
How Are Migraines Different From Headaches?
Generally, severity is the easiest way to distinguish a migraine from a headache.
While headaches range from dull to acute pain, migraines are often debilitating, accompanied by nausea, and can last for several hours or even days. Some people also experience light sensitivity or spots in the visual field with migraines.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with Headaches and Migraines?
Headache pain caused by stress, muscle tension, or pinched nerves can all be treated with chiropractic care.
After a physical exam and reviewing your medical history, our Clearwater chiropractor, Dr. Jere, will use various techniques to locate and remedy the exact source of your headaches and migraines – not just the symptoms!
Dr. Jere can perform chiropractic adjustments to alleviate pressure and reduce pain if a spinal misalignment triggers your headaches. He may also recommend back and neck-strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and relieve tension headaches.
Additionally, if dietary choices or poor lifestyle habits cause your headaches or migraines, Dr. Jere may suggest nutritional counseling and supplements.
How Often Should I See a Chiropractor for Headaches?
How often you should see a chiropractor depends on the severity and frequency of your headaches and migraines. Some might experience relief in a few treatments, while others need several weeks or months to see an improvement.
Chiropractic care for headaches and migraines is suitable for all ages. However, if you experience severe symptoms like dizziness, blurred vision, or confusion, we recommend seeking medical help, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
Are Headaches and Migraines Preventable?
It’s not always possible to prevent headaches and migraines, though there are certain ways to reduce their frequency and severity.
Overall, avoiding triggers, reducing stress, and regularly seeing a chiropractor are the best ways to stop headaches and migraines in their tracks. Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated are also important preventative steps.
Chiropractic Treatment for Headaches and Migraines
Don’t let headaches and migraines disrupt your daily life — contact our Clearwater chiropractor today! Dr. Jere will choose the technique or combination of techniques you need to treat your chronic long-term condition.
Call 727-447-4647 to learn more.