Headaches

Many people think getting headaches is a normal part of life…this is not the case. Headaches are one of the most common ways in which a body will communicate to you that there is something wrong, and that should be addressed.

There are a number of different types of headaches, the most common being; Tension headaches, Cluster headaches, Cervicogenic headaches and Migraines.

Tension headaches affect approximately 75% of headache sufferers. The typical symptoms of a tension headache are a constant dull, achy feeling that feels like a tight band around the head &/or base of the skull or aching behind the eyes. This feeling can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks. Tension headaches are often caused by poor posture which puts extra strain on the spine and muscles of the neck and upper back. This type of headache usually begin gradually and can last from a few minutes to a couple of days.

Cluster headaches are usually felt as a short and sharp pain felt on one side of the head behind the eye. They are called cluster headaches are they occur in clusters of a few times a day for a couple of days. Similar to a migraine, the pain typically results from an increase in intracranial pressure due to a dilation of blood vessels.

Cervicogenic headaches are headaches that which originate from the neck (cervical spine).

Migraines usually cause an intense throbbing pain on one side of the head and are often associated with nausea and a sensitivity to light &/or sound. Migraines often have triggers which include lack of sleep, stress, some foods and a change in hormone levels.

Due to there being a number of headache types and causes, it is advised to seek the opinion of a health professional such as a Chiropractor to rule out headaches that are from an infection or a pathological origin.

Research has found that “spinal manipulation resulted in almost immediate improvement for headaches originating in the neck, and had significantly fewer side effects and longer lasting relief than commonly prescribed medications.” (2001, Duke University report)

At Body Care Health and Chiropractic we understand the different types of headaches and the mechanisms behind their causes. Dr Felicity Ede, our Chiropractor, will perform Chiropractic and neurological assessments to determine the cause of your headache and will create a care plan suited to you and your condition.

If you know someone who suffers from headaches or you yourself do, please do not hesitate to contact us. Remember, headaches are NOT normal.