Lasting Headache Relief: Evidence-Based Strategies

Headaches are a common form of pain and a major reason cited for days missed at work or school. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, headaches can impact your ability to perform and affect your overall quality of life. I want to provide an additional perspective on some of the evidence-based therapies for the treatment of chronic headaches.

While chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercise can be effective treatments for chronic headaches, it's important to first rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the headaches.

Headache warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention include:

• Headache after trauma

• Headache associated with other neurological signs

• Vomiting

• Recurring headache in children

• Sudden, severe headache accompanied by stiff neck

• "Worst" headache accompanied by confusion or double vision

• Presence of malignant hypertension

A thorough medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic imaging studies may be needed. As a sports chiropractor, my goal is to ensure that my patients receive the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

The four main causes of headache disorders include:

• Tension-type. Tension headaches are the most common type and are often triggered by muscle tension and stress in the neck, shoulders, and head.

• Migraine. Migraine headaches are characterized by throbbing pain, often on one side of the head, and can be triggered by various factors such as certain foods, hormonal changes, or sensory stimuli.

• Cluster (Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalgias). Cluster headaches are severe and occur in clusters or patterns, typically affecting one side of the head. Their exact cause is not fully understood, but they are thought to involve the activation of the trigeminal nerve.Once underlying medical conditions have been ruled out, evidence-based treatments such as chiropractic care and therapeutic exercise can be a safe and effective option for many individuals with chronic headaches.

• Medication Overuse: Overusing pain relievers or headache medications can lead to medication overuse headaches, also known as rebound headaches, which can perpetuate the headache cycle.

A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that spinal manipulative therapy, can be an effective treatment for the prevention and management of migraines and tension-type headaches.

Safe and gentle spinal manipulation for headache relief.

Additionally, a 2019 randomized controlled trial found that a 12-week exercise program that included both aerobic exercise and specific neck and shoulder exercises was effective in reducing headache frequency and intensity in individuals with chronic tension-type headaches.

The shoulders and neck play a vital role in stabilizing the upper body. Weakness or hypertonicity in these areas can cause poor posture and muscle tension, leading to headaches as the strain affects the head and neck. To address this, targeted exercises and therapeutic techniques are essential to strengthen the shoulder stabilizers and deep neck muscles. This helps support the upper body, reducing the strain of poor posture and muscular imbalances.

Engaging deep neck flexors while stabilizing the shoulder blades.

As a holistic sports chiropractor, there are other evidence-based treatments that may be helpful for each individual's specific needs. This may include biofeedback, stress management, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Working with a multidisciplinary team can help develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of the individual's condition and improves their overall well-being.

If you are experiencing chronic headaches, it's important to seek medical evaluation and work with a healthcare provider who can provide treatments that are tailored to your specific needs.

Whether it's through chiropractic care, therapeutic exercise, or other evidence-based treatments, there are many safe and effective options available for the management of chronic headaches.

Stay active, stay healthy!

Dr. Tim