Headaches Specialist

What causes headaches?

Several different types of headaches can occur. However, the most common types of headaches are tension headaches and migraine headaches. While a tension headache usually affects the entire head, migraine headaches affect only one side of the head at a time. Migraines also tend to cause more severe pain than tension headaches, and they may cause additional symptoms like nausea and blurred vision.

Scientists believe that tension headaches are mostly caused by stress. However, stiff muscles and poor alignment of your vertebrae can also contribute to tension headaches. Migraines, on the other hand, are believed to be the result of changes in the way the trigeminal nerve interacts with your brain.

How does South Shore Chiropractic treat headaches?

If you come to South Shore Chiropractic because of severe or frequent headaches, your doctor begins by performing a thorough physical exam, looking over your medical history, and asking questions about your symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may order tests to rule out certain problems or look for factors that may be making your headaches worse, such as a herniated disc in the neck.

After your doctor has all of the information he needs, he creates a treatment plan designed specifically for you. The goal of treatment is to address the underlying cause of your headaches, make headaches less frequent, and make headache pain less severe. Treatment plans usually include a combination of different therapies.

What treatments are available?

South Shore Chiropractic offers several treatments that may be helpful if you have headaches. Some of these treatments include:

• Chiropractic adjustments
• Massage therapy
• Electrical muscle stimulation
• Ultrasound therapy
• Traction
• Flexion-distraction

Each of these treatment options offers different benefits. Your doctor explains the purpose of each treatment recommended before you begin.

Can South Shore Chiropractic treat an active headache?

In addition to helping reduce the frequency and intensity of your headaches, South Shore Chiropractic also helps you get relief while you’re experiencing a tension headache or a migraine. Same-day appointments often are available, so please call the office if you have a headache and you want to schedule treatment right away.