There are many different types of headache you can get and when you consider the complexities surrounding the neck region, including all the muscles, joints, blood vessels, nerves and so on, it’s quite apparent why headaches are so common and why there are so many different types.
Most people tend to take ibuprofen when they do suffer from headaches, and while this is fine as a temporary relief measure, it doesn’t get to the real reason of why you have a headache in the first place.
If we consider a structure within the neck, known as the myodural bridge, this spans between a muscle at the back of the neck (known as the rectus capitus posterior minor) to the spinal cord covering (dura mater). This entire structure sits closely to veins, the first cervical nerve (C1) and the vertebral artery.
How does this cause headaches? As the head and neck are moved back and forth, the muscle contraction puts pressure on the myodural bridge. This tension stabilizes the spinal cord, but it can also generate pain in certain situations.
For example, when in a car accident, one injury that is extremely common is whiplash injury. In the action of whiplash as the head is moved back and forth very quickly in a whip like motion, the cervical vertebral joint dysfunction and muscles in this area become tight. This tightness transmits abnormal tension to the spinal cord region and can result in headaches. Moreover, if the muscles further weaken, increased headaches can result and even become chronic.
So what can chiropractic care do for this headache?
Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective in reducing tension headaches including those caused by whiplash. Through manipulations and adjustments, chiropractic care helps to restore proper function of the afflicted area. With soft tissue therapy and exercising, the effects of headaches can be greatly reduced.
Do you suffer from chronic headaches? Are you finding whatever you do, you’re not getting relief? Why not try chiropractic care to see if that will help. Call us 360 951 4504 now.
