About Headaches: Headache Treatment in Richmond, VA
Headaches are very common today. Some estimates suggest that 25% of the population has a headache right now. A U.S. study reported that 10 million Americans suffer from moderate to severe disability from various forms of headaches. Because headaches are so common, some people think that getting a headache is just a normal part of life when. In actuality, headaches are a sign that something is wrong.
There are many different types of headaches. Stress, toxic fumes, certain foods, preservatives and alcohol are common culprits.
There are different ways to treat a headache. One of those is through medications. This is usually a short-term solution. After the medication wears off, the headache returns. This can become problematic for the patient because the dosages are often increased with time and medications are added to the regimen. This can potentially cause liver, kidney or stomach problems.
It is essential to find the cause of headaches. Often, tests are run on the head to find out why a patient is getting headaches. Many times the MRI's and CT's are negative. This rules out the head causing the headache. A recent British study showed that as much as 95% of all headaches originate in the neck.
This is a frequent and very often overlooked cause. It is usually due to a malfunction of the spinal bones in the neck and upper back. A thorough examination can reveal reduced movement in the neck and upper back. Inspection of the muscles in this area may also reveal tightness and/or spasm. If these findings are present, chiropractic care should be considered.
Reduced movement and increased muscle tension over time can cause headaches. After a thorough examination, a complete explanation and treatment recommendation will be given. Treatment usually consists of chiropractic adjustments to restore function and motion of the neck and upper back area. They are also designed to create the proper aligned curves to provide the best support of your head. In conjunction with chiropractic treatment, other recommendations may include stretches and exercises. These are designed to loosen the tight muscles as well as strengthen them to provide the best support of the neck and head. Other treatment recommendations may include massage and nutritional recommendations. Massage will help further loosen tight muscles. Nutritional recommendations are designed to reduce the chemical stress that your body receives on a daily basis. These recommendations, in conjuction with chiropractic care, can speed the healing process as well as reduce the frequency of headaches.
Many patients report headaches rather quickly. Relief can also take time, if the condition has existed for many years undetected. Each patient is different, and everyone responds differently to the treatment. A common question that people ask is how do I know if treatment is going to work. The only way to find out is to get a complete examination and the doctor will give you his findings. If treatment is recommended, there is a strong chance that chiropractic care may help you with your headaches.
Call today to schedule your exam and consultation at (804) 740-PAIN
Spinal Correction Center of Richmond
8536 Patterson Avenue
Richmond, VA 23229
(on the corner of Parham & Patterson
in the Beverly Hills Shopping Center)
(804) 740-PAIN