Common Types of Headaches Chiropractic May Help With

Common Types of Headaches Chiropractic May Help With

There are many types of headaches, and not all of them respond to the same treatments. Chiropractic care is most effective for headaches that are related to musculoskeletal tension, posture, or nerve irritation, including:

Tension Headaches

Tension-type headaches are the most common form of headache. They often feel like a constant ache or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. These are typically caused by:

• Muscle tension in the neck or upper back
• Poor posture
• Stress or fatigue
• Joint dysfunction in the cervical spine

Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve muscle tension and restore normal joint movement in the neck, which may reduce both the frequency and intensity of these headaches.

Cervicogenic Headaches

These headaches start in the neck and are referred to the head. They are often the result of restricted movement or irritation in the upper cervical spine. The pain is usually one-sided and may radiate from the neck to the forehead or temple.

Cervicogenic headaches often improve with chiropractic treatment that focuses on restoring mobility to the upper neck and improving overall posture and alignment.

Migraine Headaches

Migraines are more complex. They are considered neurological in origin and often come with symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, visual disturbances, and throbbing pain that can last for hours or even days.

While chiropractic care does not “cure” migraines, some patients report a reduction in migraine frequency and severity with regular chiropractic visits. This is likely due to improved spinal function, reduced nerve irritation, and better regulation of tension in the muscles surrounding the neck and head.

What the Research Says

Several studies have explored the role of chiropractic care in headache management:

• A 2011 study published in The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation can reduce the frequency and severity of both tension headaches and migraines in some patients.
• A 2020 review in Cephalalgia Reports suggested that manual therapies, including spinal adjustments, may offer benefit for cervicogenic headache management when combined with lifestyle modifications.
• The American Chiropractic Association notes that chiropractic care is one of the most commonly used complementary approaches for managing headaches.

While more large-scale studies are still needed, existing research supports the use of spinal manipulation as a safe and conservative option for patients with certain headache types.

How Chiropractic Care Helps

Chiropractors take a holistic approach to headache care, which often includes:

• Spinal adjustments to improve joint mobility and relieve pressure on irritated nerves
• Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension in the neck and shoulders
• Postural coaching to address habits that may be contributing to headaches
• Stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and support long-term relief
• Lifestyle recommendations, including ergonomic changes and stress management techniques

This multifaceted approach is what makes chiropractic so valuable. It’s not just about treating symptoms, it’s about finding and addressing the source.

When to See a Chiropractor

You should consider seeing a chiropractor if you experience:

• Frequent tension or cervicogenic headaches
  Headaches that start in the neck or upper back
• Headaches triggered by sitting for long periods or working at a computer
• A history of migraines and are seeking additional, drug-free options for support

Keep in mind that not all headaches are related to spinal or muscular dysfunction. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate provider if your case is outside the scope of care.

A Natural, Whole-Body Approach to Headache Relief

Headaches may be common, but they are not normal. If you’re tired of masking symptoms and want to explore a natural, whole-body solution, chiropractic care may offer the relief you’ve been looking for.