Chiropractic care in Uniontown, PA for migraines and headaches

Migraines and headaches symptoms and treatment

Symptoms/Description

There are many types of headaches, including tension headaches, cluster headaches and migraines. Headache symptom patterns vary greatly. Some begin gradually, while some are sudden. Pain may be sharp, dull, achy or throbbing pain. Symptoms may be felt on one or both sides of the head, and may be located anywhere from the base of the skull to the forehead region. Often loud noises or bright lights may make them worse. Some patients may complain of nausea, odd smells or sensitivity to light or sound before and during the headache.

Treatment

Prior to treatment, a thorough history and exam must be performed, as in rare cases headaches can be a symptom of a serious medical condition. In most cases, however, chiropractic adjustments (usually in the neck and upper back) are very effective in reducing headaches. Chiropractic adjustments restore optimal spinal posture, which in turn relaxes the muscles in the neck and shoulders. Specific adjustments of the top vertebrae in the neck have also been linked with headache relief. Treatment may also include manual muscle therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, home exercises and ergonomic training.