With the weather getting warmer (thank you!), migraine sufferers especially might notice an uptick in the frequency of their migraines.
But headaches affect almost everyone at some point. Rare for some, constant for others. Those of you who’ve had tremendous relief and remission from headaches can attest to the suffering you used to have. Let’s take a brief look at a few reasons for this.
Tension headaches:
They’re by far the most common type of headache, and they’re often connected with muscle tension in the neck. Sedentary living, excess sitting, and more time spent hunched over a computer or phone are all possible culprits. We’ve talked about taking regular stretch breaks when you work. (And last week we covered standing desks) But one tip you might not have heard is to pay close attention to your jaw. You see, the jaw is often the first place your body expresses tension. Clenching your teeth is a big no-no. If you notice you are clenching, it’s a good nudge to open your jaw for 10-20 seconds and relax.
Migraines:
Neurologists think that migraines are caused by changes in the brain’s blood flow and nerve cell activity. Genetics play a role too; 70% of migraine victims have at least one close relative with the problem. There are dietary triggers for this: too much red wine or caffeine, nitrates in cured meats or aged cheese, sometimes MSG. They can also be brought on by emotional stress and weather changes.
Finally, there are cervicogenic headaches:
Typically the result of things like whiplash from an accident, posture problems, or functional and structural changes (maybe from an injury or chronic pain), these need focused attention as they won’t go away on their own. That’s where I come in. My goal as your chiropractor is to find and correct the underlying spinal issues you might be experiencing that are causing headaches, such as loss of the proper cervical curve, misalignments in the vertebrae, or even a touch of spinal decay. A 2011 study published in the Journal Of Manipulative And Physiological Therapeutics (there’s a mouthful) found that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, can help with migraine and cervicogenic headaches. Not to mention all the anecdotal reports I get from patients too.
Apart from regular (gentle) adjustments to improve spinal function and relieve areas of stress, there’s plenty more I can offer in terms of advice on posture, working posture, exercises and relaxation techniques.
Bottom line:
If you suffer from any kind of headaches you shouldn’t simply accept them. They may seem common, but they’re definitely not normal, and could portend worse things to come. Reply to this email to learn more about how I can help (if I haven’t been able to already).
(And if you know anyone else with this problem, please forward along this post– I’d be happy to help.)
Most of you know we’re “officially open” – just not at full hours yet – still some daddy responsibilities to juggle to keep the happy wife/life balance. MORE hours to come gradually to make sure you can all be accommodated safely for those who haven’t resumed care just yet. Project “landscaping” has essentially ended, with a really great vibe from neighbours and socially distanced visitors; it feels great! NEXT – project “wood refinishing” on some components; Baby Beverly SHOULD have been captured tonight pushing her little walker SOLO a few steps, those pics will also come soon. Exciting times right this very moment!
Dr. Josh
P.S. I like this:
“Medicine is the study of disease and what causes man to die. Chiropractic is the study of health and what causes man to live.” — D.D. Palmer, founder of chiropractic
P.P.S. Watch this 2-minute clip to hear what one patient had to say about his migraine and headache relief:
