Whether you’ve recently developed chronic headaches or experienced them for most of your life, you’ve likely tried an assortment of different treatments. While over-the-counter medicines may offer temporary relief, a chiropractor could provide the long-term solution you’ve been looking for. To determine if you could benefit from this type of appointment, consider how a chiropractor can alleviate your headaches.

What Type of Headaches Are There? 

Headaches can be classified into three main categories: primary, secondary, or cranial neuralgias. Primary headaches are the most common type experienced and describe cluster, migraine, and tension pains. Secondary headaches are typically caused by an underlying illness, such as a sinus infection, while cranial headaches develop due to nerve pain.

What Causes Your Headaches? 

Headaches can have a number of different triggers, from excessive light or sound stimuli to health issues like dehydration, allergies, or viruses. However, one of the most common causes of a headache is due to tension in the neck, back, and shoulder muscles that support the head. When these muscles become irritated and stressed, they send tension up the rest of the neck, head, and scalp, causing a dull or throbbing ache.

How Can a Chiropractor Help with Headaches?

There are several treatment methods your chiropractor can apply to provide you with relief. First, they will gather the necessary background information to have a solid understanding of your medical history. Essential information about your history can include details on the frequency of frequently your headaches, any family members who suffer from them, or recent trauma you have sustained. Next, they will perform a physical exam to determine what kind of tension your body holds and the alignment of your spine and surrounding muscles.

To treat primary headaches, the chiropractor can perform spinal manipulation and adjustments to relieve any tension that is being held in the supporting structures. They may also recommend exercises you can do while sitting or standing to practice better posture and help discourage pressure from developing and building up. When treating secondary or cranial headaches, the chiropractor will use a combination of the above techniques, as well as soft tissue manipulation, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy.

If you are looking for natural ways to alleviate your headaches, talk to the team at Southgate Chiropractic, in Southgate, KY. The chiropractor on staff is well-versed in providing the care you need, whether you’re recovering from an accident or experiencing chronic neck or back pain. Learn more about their headache treatment options by visiting them online or calling (859) 572-0029.