Headaches & Migraines

Headaches come in different forms, each with unique causes and symptoms. A number of common types of headache:

• Tension headache: The most common type of headache, often caused by muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. This is expressed in a pressing pain on both sides of the head.
• Cluster headache: An intense, stabbing pain that often occurs on one side of the head and is accompanied by watery eyes or nasal congestion.
  
• Cervicogenic headache: Headaches caused by problems in the neck, such as incorrect posture or irritated neck joint.
• Migraines: Not just a headache but an isolated condition. Scroll on for more information.

Each type of headache requires a different approach. It is therefore important to have the cause of your complaints properly investigated.

What can you do when you have a headache?

In case of acute headache, you can try to rest in a quiet, dark room. Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and avoid watching screens for long periods of time. Heat or cold therapy can help reduce tension, depending on the cause. In case of persistent or severe headache, it is wise to seek professional help. Our chiropractors can address the cause of your headache and help you find relief.

How can chiropractic help?

Chiropractic focuses on restoring balance in your spine and nervous system. Many headache symptoms, such as tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches, are related to muscle tension and movement restrictions in the neck. With targeted chiropractic adjustments, we improve the function of your neck and reduce the tension that causes headaches. In addition, we give you advice on posture, ergonomics and exercises to prevent further complaints.

Migraine: a different approach needed

Migraine is not an ordinary headache, but a complex neurological disorder with genetic components. This means that migraines require a multidisciplinary approach, taking into account various factors:

• Musculoskeletal: Problems in the neck and shoulders can play a role in triggering a migraine attack.
• Neurological: Migraine is primarily a nervous system disorder and can be affected by triggers such as stress and sleep deprivation amongst many others.
  
• Diet: Nutrition and deficiencies in certain nutrients can play a role in migraines. Indeed, there are some foods that can trigger a migraine attack, such as chocolate, cheese or citrus fruits. Fluctuations in your blood sugar levels are also not too good for this condition.
• Hormonal factors: This is a more difficult migraine factor to test and treat. But certainly not unimportant to investigate. Hormonal fluctuations can be a trigger, especially in women.

What to do during a migraine attack?

During an attack, it is important to rest in a dark, quiet room. Make sure you're getting enough hydration and try a cold compress on your head and neck. Avoid familiar triggers, such as bright lights or loud noises. Chiropractic care can help you better deal with your migraine attacks and reduce their frequency.

How can chiropractic help with migraines?

Chiropractic can play a valuable role in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. By reducing muscle tension in the neck and shoulders and improving the freedom of movement of your spine, the overall load on your nervous system can decrease. While chiropractic can't cure migraines, it does help better manage the factors that have the biggest effect on your migraines and improve your quality of life.

Cornerstone Chiropractie is here for you

Our chiropractors Michael Rothman and Noor van der Velden are here to help you. We understand how annoying headaches and migraines can be and work with you to find a customised solution. Contact us and find out how we can help you move freely and without pain again.