Headache and Migraine Relief in Oakdale
Every year, millions of Americans are sidelined by headaches and migraines, which are not only painful but downright debilitating in many cases. It’s estimated that approximately 45 million Americans complain of headaches each year, and according to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraines affect more than 39 million Americans.
Many turn to OTC or prescription medication to relieve their pain, but we offer a natural solution through chiropractic care. But first, let’s take a look at tension headaches and migraines, which we often see here at Parkview Chiropractic Clinic.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches typically originate from misalignments in the neck, particularly from the middle to lower part. These headaches often start mild in the morning and worsen as the day progresses. The nerves in this region have branches that extend up into the head, and any misalignment can irritate these nerves, resulting in an achy headache.
Migraines
Migraines differ significantly from tension headaches. They are often preceded by warning signs like visual disturbances, signaling the onset of an episode. This type of headache involves the upper part of the neck, especially the first and second cervical vertebrae. Misalignments here can affect the nerves that control the blood supply to the head. Migraines occur when constricted blood vessels suddenly dilate, causing intense, throbbing pain.
How Chiropractic Can Help
Regular chiropractic adjustments can reduce the frequency and severity of tension headaches and address migraines. “The best part is that it’s your body doing the healing; you frequently don’t need to take medications to help it,” said Oakdale Chiropractor Dr. Kriva.
“We’ve had individuals who had been taking migraine medications for years with no significant improvement. Once we got them under chiropractic care, we completely eliminated the migraines and were able to get them off all their medication. So if the misalignment is the cause, the chiropractic adjustment is the cure,” added Dr. Kriva.
It’s important to understand, however, that healing takes time. With Mother Nature, there’s a minimum healing time within the body of 90 days; sometimes, healing can take much longer to complete (e.g., resolving an auto accident injury). Once we get things corrected, life doesn’t stop; we still have to work on our computers or tablets.
We still sometimes sleep in awkward positions and have stress or traumas in our lives. That’s why getting chiropractic care on an ongoing basis is crucial for long-term management.
Your First Visit
During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss your health history and perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify any spinal misalignments causing your headaches. Dr. Kriva will then create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for your condition. Many patients experience some relief after their first adjustment, with continued improvement as your body heals over time.
Simple Tips to Support Your Care at Home
Between your chiropractic adjustments, there are several steps you can take to maintain proper alignment and reduce headache triggers. Pay attention to your posture throughout the day, especially if you work at a desk. Position your computer screen at eye level and take regular breaks to stretch your neck and shoulders.
Stay well-hydrated, as dehydration is a common headache trigger that’s often overlooked. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily. Additionally, establish a consistent sleep schedule and invest in a supportive pillow that keeps your neck in a neutral position—avoid sleeping on your stomach, which can strain the cervical spine.
Consider keeping a headache diary to identify your personal triggers, whether they’re certain foods, stress patterns, or environmental factors. This information can be invaluable in developing a comprehensive management plan with our team.
Put Pain in Your Past
If you’re tired of living with persistent headaches or migraines, we invite you to book an appointment today and take the first step toward relief.
