One of the most common complaints we see in chiropractic offices is headaches. There are different causes of headaches. Its origin may be traumatic, inflammatory, neurologic, psychologic, vascular, endocrine, metabolic, neoplastic, degenerative, deficiency, congenital, allergic, autoimmune, or toxic.

What are the different types of headaches?

Tension headache, cervicogenic headaches, cluster headache, or migraine. They range from being throbbing, aching, pounding, stabbing, or light sensitive.

What is a tension headache?

Tension headaches are the most common type of primary headache; as many as 90% of adults have had or will have tension headaches. Tension headaches are more common among women than men. It is usually due to people who are under a lot of stress. The headache starts in the neck and shoulders then moves to the bottom of the skull.

What is a migraine?

Migraines headaches are the second most common type of primary headache. A migraine affects only one side of the head typically. The pain associated with a migraine is severe throbbing and intense. Some people experience nausea,vomiting, light and sound sensitivity. Sometime people experience an aura before they experience their headache; this is described as an abnormality in perception, such as seeing bright colors, hallucinations, or strange smells. Approximately 28 million Americans will experience migraine headaches. Before puberty both boys and girls experience migraine heads equally; after puberty women experience migraines at 18% while men experience headaches at 6%. The exact cause of migraine is unknown.

What is a cluster headache?

These type of headaches are rare. Cluster headaches although only 0.1% of the population are experienced by 85% of men. About 85% of cluster headaches appear in men. These type of headaches are rare. This headache has bouts of stabbing pain felt in the skull. This pain occurs in clusters which can last from minutes to hours.  The eyes might even become watery and inflamed. Nasal congestion occurs on the affected side of the face. The cause of cluster headaches seems to be related to the sinuses.

What is a cervicogenic headache?

These originate at the base of the neck and people experience awkward neck movement and positioning. Restricted range of motion in the neck, shoulder, and arm may be present.

What can I do to prevent headaches?

Have your spine checked regularly for misalignment/subluxations by Dr. Fred Schofield at Atlas Chiropractic. Correcting subluxations of the spine allows the nervous system to be in alignment allowing the communication to the rest of the body to work in synchrony. Removing interference allowing the nerves to send 100% of the information to the rest of the body, organs, tissues, and brain to prevent disease. Manage your stress by meditation or relaxation exercises. Exercise regularly which helps the muscles and circulatory system. Watch your posture the muscles that hold your neck upright ae the same as those that contribute to headaches. Drink plenty of fresh water. Drink a minimum of 8 glasses a day. Call today for a FREE evaluation 602-938-8868.