Headaches come in many categories, each of which stems from a different root cause. Cervicogenic headaches originate in the neck and among the most common types. They can produce severe pain which lasts anywhere from hours to days. Analgesic medications assuage the symptoms, but do not correct the underlying disorder. A St. Joseph chiropractor offers safe, drug-free solutions to effectively alleviate cervicogenic headache pain.
Cervicogenic headaches occur when a misalignment in the spine causes the upper cervical vertebrae to compress nerves within the spinal cord. The constricted fibers broadcast pain signals to nerve endings in the head, face or neck. The misalignment may be due to trauma such as whiplash. More frequently, it is the result of poor posture, stress-related muscle tension or sleeping in a wrong position.
Cervicogenic headache pain ranges from mild to severe. It tends to worsen when the position of the neck is maintained for long periods, as when driving or using a computer. Headaches are often accompanied by neck pain and stiffness which may make it difficult to rotate the head.
Patients with persistent headaches are thoroughly assessed at the St. Joseph clinic. After reviewing their symptoms, the chiropractor carries out a physical examination. She performs orthopedic and neurological tests and palpates the muscles and joints of the neck. She also conducts an evaluation of the patient's range of motion, flexibility and posture.
Gentle spinal adjustments can often resolve the symptoms of cervicogenic headaches. Upper cervical vertebrae are carefully realigned to their optimal positions. This process releases trapped nerves to alleviate the root cause of pain. Targeted massage applied to soft tissues and trigger points loosens neck muscles to relieve stiffness.
Following therapy, the St. Joseph chiropractor helps patients to prevent their headaches from recurring. They are taught exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and techniques for stress management. They are also advised on the use of an orthopedic pillow to support the neck during sleep.
Cervicogenic headaches occur when a misalignment in the spine causes the upper cervical vertebrae to compress nerves within the spinal cord. The constricted fibers broadcast pain signals to nerve endings in the head, face or neck. The misalignment may be due to trauma such as whiplash. More frequently, it is the result of poor posture, stress-related muscle tension or sleeping in a wrong position.
Cervicogenic headache pain ranges from mild to severe. It tends to worsen when the position of the neck is maintained for long periods, as when driving or using a computer. Headaches are often accompanied by neck pain and stiffness which may make it difficult to rotate the head.
Patients with persistent headaches are thoroughly assessed at the St. Joseph clinic. After reviewing their symptoms, the chiropractor carries out a physical examination. She performs orthopedic and neurological tests and palpates the muscles and joints of the neck. She also conducts an evaluation of the patient's range of motion, flexibility and posture.
Gentle spinal adjustments can often resolve the symptoms of cervicogenic headaches. Upper cervical vertebrae are carefully realigned to their optimal positions. This process releases trapped nerves to alleviate the root cause of pain. Targeted massage applied to soft tissues and trigger points loosens neck muscles to relieve stiffness.
Following therapy, the St. Joseph chiropractor helps patients to prevent their headaches from recurring. They are taught exercises to strengthen the neck muscles and techniques for stress management. They are also advised on the use of an orthopedic pillow to support the neck during sleep.
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If you are looking for an experienced St. Joseph chiropractor look no further than Fully Alive Inner Balance Chiropractic and Wellness Center. For contact info and office hours, visit our website today at http://www.fullyalivefamilychiropractic.com.
