Headaches explained?
A headache is a common and often uncomfortable condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It can manifest as a dull ache, sharp pain, or throbbing sensation and may vary in intensity and duration. There are various types of headaches, but we'll narrow our focus to the ones
frequently encountered at BTP that tend to find relief through chiropractic care and therapy:
- Tension Headaches
- Cervicogenic Headaches
- Migraine Headaches
What are the causes and symptoms?
Tension Headaches
Causes
- Muscle Tension: Increased muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and scalp can trigger tension headaches.
- Stress and Anxiety: Emotional or mental stress and anxiety are common culprits.
- Poor Posture: Prolonged poor posture, especially while working or using electronic devices, can contribute.
Symptoms
- Dull Ache: Typically presents as a persistent, mild to moderate, dull ache around the head.
- Tenderness: Scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles may be tender to the touch.
- Pressure Sensation: Often described as a tight band or pressure around the head.
Migraine Headaches
Causes
- Genetic Predisposition: Migraines often run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
- Neurological Factors: Changes in brain chemicals and nerve pathways may contribute.
- Triggers: Various triggers such as certain foods, environmental factors, hormonal changes, or stress can precipitate migraines.
Symptoms
- Intense Pain: Severe, throbbing or pulsating pain, often on one side of the head.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting may accompany the headache.
- Sensitivity to Stimuli: Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or odors.
- Auras: Some individuals experience visual disturbances or auras before the migraine.
Cervicogenic Headaches
Causes
- Neck Issues: Problems in the neck or cervical spine, such as misalignment, arthritis, or injury, can trigger cervicogenic headaches.
- Nerve Irritation: Irritation of nerves in the neck due to various factors can lead to these headaches.
- Muscle Tightness: Chronic muscle tension or spasms in the neck and upper back can contribute.
Symptoms
- Pain Originating in Neck: Pain typically starts in the neck and radiates to the head or face.
- Limited Neck Movement: Difficulty moving the neck or experiencing stiffness.
- One-Sided Pain: Pain often affects one side of the head and may extend to the forehead or eye.
Medical management of headaches
Managing headaches is a complex task for physicians. Achieving an accurate diagnosis specific to an individual's condition is paramount. Once a precise diagnosis is made, developing a clear management plan becomes more achievable.
Traditional medical approaches for managing headaches often involve the use of Over-the-Counter medication and therapy referrals.
In cases where symptoms are severe or unresponsive to conservative measures, prescription strength medication is typically prescribed.
BTP’s approach to headaches
Dr. Mike, a seasoned practitioner at BTP, boasts over a decade of experience effectively managing headaches. A notable number of patients at Dr. Mike's practice express a preference for non-medication-based symptom management.
Dr. Mike initiates the treatment process with a comprehensive examination to pinpoint the functional cause of the patient's headache symptoms. Based on this assessment, patients engage in a series of 4-6 visits aimed at enhancing mobility and functional strength in the affected area.
Concurrently, Dr. Mike implements lifestyle modifications centered around sleep, stress management, exercise, and diet. The majority of patients experience significant improvement during this treatment period. In instances where the desired level of relief is not attained, Dr. Mike taps into his extensive network of trusted specialists in Cincinnati to make appropriate referrals for the patient's continued care.
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