Headaches & Migraines

Headaches affect just about everyone at some point and they can present themselves in many different ways. The types of headaches Chiropractors see are; Tension, Jaw (TMJ), Cervicogenic headaches (originating in the neck) followed by Migraine headaches.

Tension Headache Usually present as a generalised headache characterised as a dull tightness around the scalp. Tension headaches can affect concentration, mood and can cause nausea. The Jaw (TMJ) can also be involved which can be caused by clenching or grinding because of stress, jaw injury or misalignment.

Cervicogenic Headache Typically one-sided intense non-throbbing headache that can cause nausea and vomiting if severe enough. It can feel like the pain is behind one eye ball. No visual disturbance or neurological signs. Usually involves pain and discomfort in the upper neck.

Migraine Headache Usually an intense headache on one side that can involve nausea, vomiting and visual disturbances. Some migraines begin with visual disturbance like partial blind spots or squiggly lines in the visual field with the headache beginning after about 20 minutes. It has a throbbing pulsating nature. Due to its severity and the other symptoms the migraine patient cannot function and is usually bedridden.

Treatment

Your Chiropractor will perform a thorough neuro-musculoskeletal assessment of the neck and upper back, including: movement, posture, palpation, functional testing, strength testing and specific pain provocation tests to identify where exactly the headaches may be coming from and what is possibly causing them.