When people think of chiropractic care, they often associate it with treating low back pain or neck pain. However, in my experience, headaches tend to respond exceptionally well to chiropractic treatment compared to other conditions.
There are various types of headaches, but the most common ones are known as “tension” headaches. Tension headaches are typically felt at the base of the skull, but if you suffer from them, you likely also experience pain and tension in your upper back and shoulders. Interestingly, it’s the tension in the upper back that actually triggers the headache. The muscles in the upper back connect to the base of the skull, and when they become tight, they exert a pulling force that irritates the area, leading to a tension headache.
So, what causes this tension in the first place? Let’s delve into the biomechanics. When you maintain good posture, the weight of your head, which is approximately 10 pounds, is primarily supported by your spine. However, if your shoulders roll forward or your head protrudes in front of your body, the muscles in your upper back have to work extra hard to maintain that position, resulting in tightness. Once again, it’s this muscle tension that triggers the headache.
To alleviate these headaches, there are several actions you can take. One simple yet impactful change is to use the cervical pillow recommended by our office. This type of pillow has a central hole that, when you lie on your back, helps position your head correctly and relaxes the tight muscles. This simple adjustment has had remarkable effects on our patients suffering from neck pain and headaches.
Engaging in posture exercises is also beneficial. By stretching the chest muscles and strengthening the muscles in the upper back and neck, you can gradually improve your posture over time.
If you have a job that requires you to look down a lot (e.g., looking at a computer screen or constantly checking your phone), it’s essential to maintain proper positioning. Ensure that your screen and chair are adjusted to support good posture, allowing you to sit upright comfortably. Additionally, be mindful of your phone usage and try to hold it at eye level instead of constantly looking down, as this can contribute to muscle tension in the upper back and neck. Remember to take regular breaks to roll your shoulders and neck to relieve any strain caused by prolonged periods of looking down.
Lastly, it’s important to receive chiropractic adjustments. By improving the mobility of the joints in your neck and upper back, you can significantly alleviate headaches. As I mentioned earlier, headaches respond better to chiropractic care than any other condition we treat.
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