Lasting Relief: Headaches & Migraine Treatment San Jose
Chiropractor for Headaches
Effective Remedies for Headaches and Migraines
It’s inevitable that most people will experience a headache or a migraine at some point in their lifetime. The relentless throb behind your eyes or the pulsating sensation at your temple can be unbearable, and the root cause of such discomfort is often elusive. Associated symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, and blurred vision can significantly impact your daily life if not appropriately managed. However, chiropractic care has frequently proven successful in addressing headaches and migraines. For persistent symptoms that might indicate vertigo, we are also equipped to offer assistance. If you are routinely tormented by this condition and crave the relief of good health, we at Almaden Family Chiropractic are here to help.
Research-backed Treatment Methodologies
Multiple studies conducted in recent years advocate that chiropractic treatment can provide significant relief for those who suffer from migraines and headaches. Notably, a study published in 2001, and several others preceding it, discovered evidence that spinal manipulation can provide immediate improvement for headaches originating in the neck. This research also suggested that chiropractic therapy offers enduring relief for tension headaches and minimizes the risk of side effects from medications typically used for headache treatment.
Further evidence suggests that patients who undergo chiropractic care for just four weeks can experience longer-lasting relief than those who solely depend on pain medication for headache management. Essentially, chiropractic therapy affords distinctive advantages not available with medicinal treatments.
At Almaden Family Chiropractic, we acknowledge that each patient presents unique characteristics and requirements. Hence, we conduct a meticulous evaluation to ascertain the most effective treatment approach for your specific headache type. Generally, tension headaches can be treated by manipulating the top two cervical vertebrae along with adjustments at the junction between the thoracic and cervical spine. Chiropractic therapy, in conjunction with lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, can alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with both common headaches and migraines in a majority of patients.
Typical Headache Triggers
Numerous factors can trigger headaches, which tend to vary widely among individuals. Some prevalent causes include:
- Irritation to the joints in the upper neck due to misalignment
- Tightened neck muscles
- Adverse reactions to medications
- Elevated blood pressure
- Hypoglycemia
- Exhaustion
- Stress
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
Headaches are typically classified into three categories: tension headaches, migraine headaches, and cluster headaches, the latter being less common than the other two types.
Understanding Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are the most prevalent type, with nearly 75% of headache sufferers reporting symptoms related to tension. Tension headaches typically develop gradually and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days. The discomfort is often described as a dull, achy feeling around the head or behind the eyes, or as a constant, dull sensation on the head’s sides. These headaches are often attributed to poor posture and stress, which exert excessive pressure on the spine and the muscles in the neck and upper back.
Some individuals experience tension headaches that can persist for several months. These episodes can be quite debilitating and painful, however, are seldom accompanied by other common headaches symptoms like vomiting, throbbing, or nausea.
Tension headaches typically belong to one of two types:
Referred pain induced by irritation to the joints in the upper neck or trigger points in the supporting muscles of the neck and head. This pain is typically caused by joint dysfunction and muscle damage due to a whiplash injury, such as a car accident.
A subluxation refers to a misalignment of the spine, which can cause stress and irritation to spinal nerves. This can, in turn, contribute to tension headaches.
Understanding Migraine Headaches
Migraines are a more severe form of headache, characterized by an intense throbbing or pounding sensation usually on one side of the head. Accompanied by other symptoms such as light sensitivity, nausea, and visual disturbances, migraines can be debilitating and may last anywhere from a few hours to several days. It is estimated that approximately 12% of the American population suffers from migraines, making it a common neurological disorder.
While the exact cause of migraines remains elusive, a few potential triggers have been identified. These include:
- Altered blood flow into the brain from the arteries in the neck
- Hormonal changes
- Certain types of food and drinks
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Environmental factors, such as weather changes
- Stress and anxiety
Chiropractic treatment can be an effective way to manage migraines. Some of the potential benefits include a decrease in the frequency and severity of migraines, as well as a reduction in the need for medication. Our expert chiropractors at Almaden Family Chiropractic will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, addressing any underlying spinal issues that may be contributing to your migraines.
Cluster Headaches
While less common than tension and migraine headaches, cluster headaches can cause severe pain. They typically occur in cyclical patterns or clusters and are one of the most painful types of headaches. A single attack can last from 15 minutes to three hours and can occur more than once within a 24-hour period during the cycle.
Chiropractic care for migraines
Our chiropractic care revolves around the core principle that the body can heal itself when the skeletal system is correctly aligned, and the nervous system is functioning properly. To accomplish this, the chiropractor uses his or her hands or an adjusting tool to perform specific manipulations of the vertebrae. When these manipulations are applied to the vertebrae that are causing the problem, the body can respond by self-correcting to promote better health.
We pride ourselves on providing personalized and comprehensive treatment to each patient, considering your unique symptoms and medical history. By doing so, we aim to not only treat your current symptoms but also prevent future occurrences.
Book an appointment with us at Almaden Family Chiropractic to find the relief you need from headaches and migraines.
We understand that living with chronic pain can be debilitating and can affect all aspects of life. We’re here to help. Our team of trained professionals will work with you to identify the root cause of your headaches or migraines and formulate a comprehensive treatment plan.
Don’t let chronic pain control your life any longer. Reach out to us today, and let’s take the first steps toward a healthier, happier you. Visit our office at 1711 Branham Lane, Ste A12, San Jose, CA 95118 or call us at (408)269-7111. We look forward to helping you reclaim your life from chronic pain.