Headaches are common occurrences. And while the majority of headaches are not considered serious, there are some headaches that may be indicative of a potentially serious, yet to-be-diagnosed, underlying condition. At Blum Family Chiropractic Center in Mishawaka, IN, Dr. Joe Blum and his team of professionals offer chiropractic treatment techniques and options that can help you better manage what can be, for some, a life-disrupting condition.
Headaches often present differently in each person – some exhibit similar symptoms while others do not. There are two fundamental types of headaches-
- Primary Headaches are further broken down into these categories -
- Tension Headaches, which rank among the most common, typically manifest as a dull ache/discomfort is felt behind your eyes.
- Approximately 75% of headaches are tension headaches.
- Migraine Headaches are typically neurologically based and have the potential to last for hours and days. Those that suffer from migraines may experience debilitating pain (as well as nausea), which can be aggravated simply by typical sounds, light, etc.
- Cluster Headaches, which mainly affect those between the ages of 20 and 40, refer to a headache with intense pain on only one side.
- New Daily Persistent Headaches (NDPH) –a rare disorder and one that afflicts someone with no history of headaches. It starts abruptly and usually is a daily occurrence for at least three months. And most can remember the date of the onset of the headache.
- Secondary Headaches –are merely symptoms of another condition. They can happen if you have a sinus issue or become dehydrated.
Common Headache Triggers
Neck or upper back subluxations (which medically means a structural displacement) are often the cause of tension headaches. Fortunately, one or a series of chiropractic adjustments have been shown to effectively treat the symptoms of tension headaches. Other headache triggers include
- Exposure to toxic chemicals, like nitrates, MSG (a food additive/enhancer), nicotine, and more.
- Typical life stressors.
- Depression, anxiety, and other emotional factors.
- Lifestyle factors –
- Foods with high levels of certain amino acids may be in chocolate, fermented/pickled food, and even cheese.
- Disrupted sleep patterns.
- Poor posture.
- Poor dietary choices and habits.
- Excessive exercise, among others.
Chiropractic Techniques to Relieve Headache Symptoms
- Chiropractic Adjustments
- Manual Therapies
- Myofascial Release
- Massage
- Graston
- Kinesio Taping
- Therapeutic Exercises
- Postural, Rehab, Balance
- Electrical Stimulation
Do you live or work in the greater Mishawaka, IN, area, and experience headaches that impact your daily life? Contact Blum Family Chiropractic by telephone at 574-699-4432 or if you prefer, use our online contact form or appointment request form. We look forward to customizing a plan that lets you return to your daily routine.