CHIROPRACTOR FOR MIGRAINES & HEADACHES (WOKING & DORKING)

Headaches and migraines are two of the most prevalent and debilitating conditions affecting millions of individuals worldwide.

Who hasn’t had a headache and or migraine, I most certainly have, and they can be so debilitating you have no idea who to go and see or what to do. Despite their widespread occurrence, these conditions are often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. 

However, chiropractors, with their specialised training and expertise, play a crucial role in effectively diagnosing and treating different types of headaches and migraines.

A women sitting down on a sofa with her head in her hands in pain with a headache

Understanding types of headaches & migraines

Headaches encompass various types, each unique in its characteristics and causes. The most common types include tension headaches (muscles), migraine headaches (affected by a trigger), cluster headaches (random and episodic), cervicogenic headaches (radiating from the spine) and TMJ dysfunction (pain radiating from the Jaw). Distinguishing between these types is crucial for providing targeted and effective treatment.

TENSION HEADACHES: 

These headaches are often experienced as a dull, persistent pain or pressure on both sides of the head. Tension headaches can be caused by stress, poor posture, muscle tension, and fatigue. Chiropractors aim to identify the underlying causes and alleviate symptoms using techniques such as spinal adjustments, posture correction, and ergonomic suggestions.

A man in pain with a headache holding his hands up to his head
A women holding her hands up to her temples in pain

MIGRAINE HEADACHES:

Migraines are a chronic neurological condition characterised by severe, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. Chiropractors need to differentiate migraines from other types of headaches to provide appropriate treatment. They employ a range of techniques including spinal manipulations, soft tissue therapy, and lifestyle modifications to manage migraines and reduce their severity and frequency.

GET HELP WITH YOUR MIGRAINES OR HEADACHES!

Cluster Headaches:

Cluster headaches are less common but intensely painful, typically occurring in clusters or cycles over a period of weeks or months. They are usually localised around one eye and can be accompanied by nasal congestion and eye redness. While chiropractic care may not prevent or cure cluster headaches, it can help manage symptoms and provide relief through spinal adjustments, nerve stimulation techniques, and trigger point therapy.

a man with cluster headaches. He has both hands up around his nose and eyes
A male runner holding their lower back with both hands in pain

Cervicogenic Headaches:

Cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction in the cervical spine or neck region. They often originate from irritated or compressed nerves, muscle tension, or misalignment. Chiropractors employ various techniques, including spinal adjustments, mobilisation, and therapeutic exercises, to address the underlying neck or spine issues, providing relief from cervicogenic headache symptoms.

TMJ Dysfunction:

TMJ dysfunction is when there is an issue with the muscles or joint of the Jaw and it isn’t doing its job correctly. There are many muscles in the face and jaw that when they become tight can affect the alignment of the jaw and the only way the body can let you know is through a headache or migraine, the bodies defence mechanism when something isn’t right. As a chiropractor my job is to spot this condition early on and treat it with manual therapy including adjustments and mobilisation as well as soft tissue methods as medication won’t help this condition to go.

A women grimacing with jaw pain

The Role of Chiropractors in Diagnosis and Treatment:

As a Chiropractor I have not only experienced terrible headaches but have treated patients who have experienced the same. With my knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, I am ideally positioned to diagnose and treat headaches and migraines. The diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination to determine the specific type of headache. In some cases, additional tests such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scans may be required to rule out other underlying conditions and can also be asked for after a trial of treatment to ensure the patient has all the information necessary to make an improved recovery.

Chiropractors understand that headaches and migraines are often multi-factorial, involving a combination of physical, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Therefore, treatment plans are tailored to address each patient’s unique circumstances. Chiropractic care for headache relief typically consists of several components:

Spinal Adjustments:

Adjustments, also known as spinal manipulations, involve applying controlled force to specific spinal joints to restore alignment, reduce nerve irritation, and improve overall spinal function. This technique is often employed for tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches, and migraines related to neck tension or misalignment.

Soft Tissue Therapy:

Chiropractors utilise soft tissue techniques such as massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy to relax tight muscles, release tension, and increase blood flow to affected areas. These therapies can provide relief for tension headaches, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches by reducing muscle tightness and spasm.

Lifestyle & Ergonomic Modifications:

Chiropractors educate and advise patients on lifestyle modifications aimed at minimising triggers and promoting overall well-being. These recommendations may include posture correction, stress management techniques, dietary changes, regular exercise, and sleep hygiene practices.

Complementary Therapies:

In addition to traditional chiropractic techniques, chiropractors may incorporate complementary therapies such as acupuncture, heat or cold therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, and traction. These therapies can aid in pain management, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

GET HELP WITH YOUR MIGRAINES OR HEADACHES!

The complexity of headaches and migraines demands accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment. Chiropractors play a pivotal role in addressing the underlying causes of different types of headaches through non-invasive and holistic approaches. By combining spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, lifestyle modifications, and complementary therapies, chiropractors provide effective relief and improve quality of life for individuals suffering from these debilitating conditions. If you are experiencing headaches or migraines, consult a qualified chiropractor like myself to receive the personalised care and attention necessary to alleviate your symptoms and help you lead a pain-free life.

Where to find us

St Johns, Woking

6 St Johns Road

GU21 7SE

Contact

Mycompletehealth1@gmail.com

coachkatpt@gmail.com

Phone

07442714526

Location in St Johns of my complete health map