Chiropractic Effective for Cervicogenic Headache

We see a great number of men and women with headaches in our West New York office, and Dr. Marsh has been able to aid many of them. For that matter, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 50% of all adults have difficulties with some manner of headache problem, so this actually isn't a surprise. One of the most typical varieties of headaches that our patients suffer from is cervicogenic headache which, thankfully, chiropractic treatment can commonly help.

Cervicogenic Headaches Defined

A cervicogenic headache is one that stems from issues in the cervical spine. It might be generated by a condition with either the spine itself (specifically, the vertebrae, joints, or discs), or it can be because of a problem in the muscles and tendons of your neck. This problem in your spine results in compression or irritation of the spinal nerves, which can give you headache pain.

How can you identify if the headache you are struggling with is a cervicogenic headache? Aside from getting a diagnosis from a healthcare expert, a typical symptom of cervicogenic headaches is tenderness or discomfort in your neck. This is occasionally followed by pain in the back of your head or between your shoulder blades.

How Chiropractic Helps with Cervicogenic Headaches

Considering cervicogenic headaches will not subside until whatever problem is generating them is corrected, it is essential to get treatment instead of just trying to "wait it out." Chiropractic care is an effective approach, and one that can provide a great deal of relief.

In one study circulated in Chiropractic & Osteopathy, experts evaluated 80 people who had repeated cervicogenic headaches. Half were given chiropractic care and the other half engaged in light massage therapy. Each participant was assessed 12 and 24 weeks after the treatment and it was found that chiropractic provided the most beneficial effects.

Specifically, this study noted that chiropractic adjustments provided patients more significant pain relief and lowered the frequency of headaches that occurred. In addition to that, it also diminished the disability that resulted from these painful headaches.

To find out what Dr. Marsh can do for you and your headaches, call us today. We'll do our best to get you the pain relief you need!

References

• Haas M, Schneider M, Vavrek D. Illustrating risk difference and number needed to treat from a randomized controlled trial of spinal manipulation for cervicogenic headache. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2010 18(9).
• World Health Organization. (2012, October). Headache disorders. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs277/en/