Do you suffer from headaches or migraines? If you have experienced pounding pain in your head, you know that there are few things worse. Migraines and headaches can make it hard to function, complete daily tasks, and even enjoy your daily life. If you have tried medication but are still suffering, chiropractor care may help you manage your pain and get your life back.

What is the Difference Between a Migraine and a Headache?

Migraines and headaches both cause debilitating pain, but there are a few key differences between a regular headache and a migraine. It’s important to understand which you are experiencing, so you can receive the proper treatment. 

Headaches

A headache involves mild to moderate pain or discomfort usually affecting both sides of the head. It can occur from muscle tension, blood vessel changes, or nerve irritation. Most headaches are caused by stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, sleep problems, weather changes, or barometric pressure. 

There are two main headache types: tension headaches and cluster headaches. A tension headache occurs because of stress or tight muscles. It involves dull pain around the head. A cluster headache occurs in a series that will last weeks or even months. It usually involves severe pain on one side of the head, usually behind one eye. 

Another common headache is a sinus headache, which happens when you have inflammation or congestion in your sinuses. You may feel pain or pressure in your forehead, cheeks, or behind your eyes. Your face may also be tender. 

Migraines

 A migraine is more than just a severe headache; it is a neurological disorder caused by changes in brain activity, arteries, chemicals, and nerve cells. Migraines are experienced by an estimated 12% of people in the United States. Most migraines also happen to women more than men. 

A migraine typically includes a throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head. A migraine can also include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. It can last from four to 72 hours if left untreated. 

Once your migraine goes away, you may feel drained, confused, or exhausted. Those experiencing migraines may have a hard time concentrating, experience depression and anxiety, suffer from fatigue, have difficulty sleeping, and/or have body chills. 

How Can a Chiropractor Help

Chiropractic care can be an effective option for reducing headache intensity and frequency, especially for tension headaches and headaches from neck problems. While results may vary, many people report significant relief with regular chiropractic treatments. Chiropractors can help with: 

Aligning the spine and correcting posture 

Misalignments in the spine, especially the neck, can contribute to headaches by causing nerve irritation and muscle tension. Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine, reducing pressure on nerves and improving posture, which can decrease headache frequency.

Reducing muscle tension

Poor posture, stress, and sitting for long periods can lead to tension headaches caused by tight muscles in the neck and shoulders. Chiropractors use techniques such as soft tissue therapy and spinal manipulation to relieve tension and improve muscle function.

Improving nervous system function

Spinal misalignments can interfere with nerve signals, contributing to migraines and headaches. Adjustments help restore proper nerve communication, which may reduce headache triggers.

Decreasing inflammation

Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation in the spine and surrounding tissues, which may contribute to headache pain. Some treatments also promote blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially reducing the severity of your migraine.

Addressing TMJ issues

The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull. Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) can contribute to headaches, especially those originating from jaw tension or grinding. Chiropractic adjustments and jaw exercises can help relieve TMJ-related headaches.

Providing soft tissue manipulation (massage)

Some chiropractors incorporate massage to relieve tension in the head, neck, and shoulders. This approach helps improve blood circulation and reduce the frequency of tension-related headaches. Massage may also help you relax and feel less stressed, which can help with headaches or migraines. 

Recommending exercises 

Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles in your neck and shoulders, which can lessen the amount of severity of migraines and headaches.

Migraines and Headaches are Treatable: Get Help Today

Migraines and headaches are debilitating, and they can prevent you from living your life. There may not be a cure for your migraine or type of headache, but you do have treatment options. Visit the Health and Wellness Clinic and see how a holistic alternative to traditional headache treatments could be a step toward a pain-free life.