Headaches are a common problem affecting millions of people worldwide, and they can disrupt one’s daily routine and cause a considerable amount of pain. While some individuals experience headaches occasionally, others have them frequently, and can last from a few minutes to several days. According to statistics, nine out of ten Americans suffer from headaches at some point in their lives.

There are three main types of headaches that chiropractors see and treat regularly. They include tension headaches, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches. Tension headaches are the most common type and present as band-like tension around the head, thought to result from muscle tension. Migraines, on the other hand, are characterized by headaches with light and sound sensitivity, dizziness, and nausea, and they are often present on one side of the head. Cervicogenic headaches stem from an underlying neck problem and do not respond well to medication.

Causes and Triggers of Headaches

Headaches can have many causes and triggers, including certain foods, health problems, environmental factors, and behavioral stressors. Foods that may trigger headaches include aged cheese, chocolate, and foods with monosodium glutamate (MSG). Health problems such as high blood pressure, sinus infections, and allergies can also cause headaches. Environmental factors such as bright lights, loud noises, and certain smells can trigger headaches. Behavioral stressors, such as sitting in a fixed position for an extended period or engaging in excessive exercise, can also trigger headaches.

Home Remedies for Headaches

While it’s essential to seek medical attention for severe headaches, some remedies can help prevent headaches or relieve symptoms from home. If you spend most of your time in a fixed position such as sitting at a desk or looking at a computer or phone, take breaks and stretch every hour to relax muscles and reduce strain. Engage in low-impact exercises such as walking or light aerobics, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and avoid clenching or grinding your teeth. Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation and massage can also help reduce stress and tension in the body and mind.

Chiropractic Care for Headaches

Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive, non-addictive way to relieve pain caused by headaches. Chiropractors undergo extensive training to help their patients in many ways beyond treating back pain. They know how tension within the spine can create problems in other parts of the body and can relieve tension and stress in the body, which can alleviate headache symptoms.
Depending on the type of headache you experience, chiropractors will offer different treatments. For example, cervicogenic headaches are often treated by spinal or joint manipulation and deep neck exercises. Migraines may need neuromuscular massages that focus on trigger points within the body to ease symptoms. Tension headaches can commonly be treated with stretching and gentle forces that allow proper movement of the neck and spine.

Clarksville Chiropractic Center Can Help with Your Headaches

Clarksville Chiropractic Center offers chiropractic care services to help alleviate headache symptoms. Their chiropractic treatments reduce inflammation, pain, and discomfort while improving physical function and performance, enabling you to get back to your day-to-day life. Contact Clarksville Chiropractic Center today to learn how they can help you with your headaches.