Chiropractic: Physicians Plus

80 Sumner Avenue · Springfield, MA 01108 · Phone: (413) 732-4800 · Fax: (413) 739-4239

CONDITIONS AND CONCERNS

Headaches

Because headaches are so common, some people think that getting a headache is just a normal part of life!

Headaches are a sign that something's wrong.

Stress, toxic fumes, certain foods, preservatives, and alcohol are common culprits.

There are many types of headaches

A frequent and overlooked cause of headaches is the malfunction of spinal bones in the neck and upper back. When bones of the spine lose their normal position or motion, sensitive nerves and blood vessels to the head can be affected. When spinal nerves and related tissues are stretched or irritated, they can produce throbbing headaches. Aspirin and medications may cover up these warning signs, but do not correct the underlying structural cause. This can lead to very dangerous cycles of pain medication consumption. This can have serious consequences such as stomach ulcers, liver disease, and rebound headaches.

Many people find relief and correction with massage and/or chiropractic care. Acupuncture is also widely used in the management of headaches. It can be applied as a single form of care, or as part of a comprehensive treatment program. ¹

"Cervical spine manipulation was associated with significant improvement in headache outcomes in trials involving patients with neck pain and/or neck dysfunction and headache." - Duke Evidence Report, McCrory, Penzlen, Hasselblad, Gray (2001)

If a thorough examination reveals reduced range of motion, loss of normal spinal curves, or mechanical restrictions, chiropractic care should be considered. After a complete explanation, you'll receive a care program designed for your unique spinal problem.

Many patients report headache relief. Others find that the correction of their problem takes longer because their spinal problem has existed undetected for many years. Every patient responds differently. Regardless of how you respond, enjoy the drug-free results millions have enjoyed by consulting a chiropractic doctor.

Headaches are not the result of an aspirin shortage in your body! Drugs simply cover up symptoms instead of addressing the cause of headache pain.

1. Melchart D, et al. Acupuncture for recurrent headaches: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Cephalalgia 1999;19:779-786.