Headaches
Chiropractic Services for Headaches in Arlington, VA
Severe migraine attacks or daily persistent headaches can seriously affect your quality of life. Contact District Wellness at (571) 568-8496 and get rid of your head pain for good! Our experienced chiropractors will develop and relieve headache pain with a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
Whether you’re suffering from severe headaches or dull pain in your head, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association, headaches are the third most common reason for visits to the doctor.
What are Headaches?
Headaches are one of the most common medical conditions. Headache symptoms include pain in the temples or forehead, neck pain, and sensitivity to light and sound. Other symptoms may include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly half of the adult population worldwide suffers from headaches. And while there are many different types of headaches, the most common are tension headaches and migraine headaches.
Types of Headaches
There are two main types of headaches: Primary Headachse and Secondary Headaches.
Primary Headaches are the result of muscle tension, changes in the weather, or stress. Some common examples of primary headaches include tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines.
Secondary Headaches, on the other hand, are caused by another underlying medical condition. A secondary headache could be a symptom of a sinus infection or a brain tumor. If you experience a headache that is severe or persists for more than a few days, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes.
The 5 Most Common Headaches
#1 Tension Headaches
Tension headache is the most common form of headache. It’s often caused by stress or muscle tension and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including poor posture, anxiety, depression, and sleeping with your neck in an awkward position.
These headaches can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
#2 Migraine Headaches
According to the national headache foundation, migraine headaches are now categorized as one a neurological disorder. This severe headache is accompanied by intense throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light. They are often caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, hormones, and triggers such as stress, bright lights, irregular sleep habits, certain foods, or strong smells.
A migraine headache can be treated with a variety of medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription drugs, and herbal supplements.
#3 Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are often caused by problems with the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face. These can also be triggered by alcohol, tobacco, and a variety of other factors.
This type of head pain often responds well to medication, but some people may require surgery to correct the underlying problem.
#4 Sinus Headaches
Sinus headaches are a type of headache that is caused by inflammation of the sinuses. These headaches can cause severe pain and often occur with other symptoms such as a runny nose, fever, and fatigue.
Sinus headaches are often treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, but some people may require prescription medication to control the pain.
#5 Medication Overuse Headache
Medication overuse headache is a type of headache that is caused by the consistent or overuse of pain-relieving medicine.
Medication overuse headaches are a serious condition, and it is important to seek the advice of a headache specialist if you think you may be suffering from them.
Prevention of Headaches
The best way to relieve your headache pain will depend on the type of headache you have.
Tension headaches can often be prevented by managing stress, practicing good posture, and sleeping with your neck in a comfortable position.
Migraine headaches can be prevented by avoiding triggers such as stress, bright lights, or strong smells.
Avoiding triggers such as alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications can help you prevent cluster headaches. If you can’t avoid triggers, your doctor may prescribe a preventive medication to help prevent cluster headaches.
How do Chiropractors Treat Headaches?
If you suffer from headache disorders, whether it is a tension headache, migraine, or cluster headache; chiropractors may be able to help. A chiropractor will take your thorough health history and perform a physical exam. They may also order diagnostic tests, such as x-rays, to rule out other causes of your headaches and start your treatment plan.
Treatment for headaches may include spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and rehabilitative exercises. Your chiropractor will also provide you with lifestyle and dietary recommendations to help prevent future headaches.
Chiropractors are often able to treat headaches by realigning the spine and correcting any problems with the musculoskeletal system. In many cases, chiropractic adjustments can help to relieve tension headaches, and migraines.
One of the benefits of chiropractic treatment is that it is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to headache relief. Another benefit of chiropractic care is that it can be tailored to each individual’s needs. And finally, chiropractic care is often covered by insurance, whereas many medications used to treat headaches are not.
If you suffer from headaches, whether they are tension headaches, migraines, or cluster headaches, chiropractic care may be able to help. Contact District Wellness at (571) 568-8496 today to schedule an appointment.
