Holistic Headache Relief Through Chiropractic Massage
According to the World Health Organization, in 2021, headache disorders that are characterized by recurrent headaches affected about 40% of the global population or about 3.1 billion people. They do not only bring discomfort, but also have a negative impact on the productivity, well-being, and overall quality of life, among others.
While conventional modes of treatments such as the use of pain relievers and other forms of medication as well as lifestyle changes are usually recommended, an increasing number of affected individuals are turning to chiropractic massage as a complementary or alternative approach.
This write-up takes a closer look at the relationship between headaches and chiro care, along the way, it examines its effectiveness, benefits, and so on.
Headaches in the Philippines
In simple terms, a headache is a painful as well as a disabling ailment that is characterized as migraine, tension-type, and cluster headache. Per the Global Burden of Disease Study that was released in 2016, about 12 million Filipinos experience the said condition.
With regard to migraine headache medication, according to a report that was published on the official site of Neurology Asia, the top three drugs for migraine were topiramate (80.69%), flunarizine (73.36%), and propranolol (49.03%).
While proven safe and effective, it should be noted that the aforementioned drugs come with a number of adverse effects, which include tightness of the chest, intense pressure on the throat, limb heaviness, muscle pains, and fatigue.
Putting the said factors into consideration, it is no wonder why many who suffer from headaches opt for chiropractic massage and other forms of holistic alternatives.
Can a Chiropractor Treat Headaches?
Chiropractic massage is one of the go-to treatments of individuals who want a non-drug based approach to treat their headache. According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), on top of the said holistic approach, other alternatives that adults turn to are acupuncture, conventional massage, Feldenkrais Method (overriding movement patterns that are not beneficial), and naturopathy (self-healing).
Of the aforementioned non-drug treatments, chiropractic care is one of the most promising, as confirmed in another study that also appeared in NLM, where the condition of a patient who had persistent headache improved thanks to a brief course of chiro care that utilized chiropractic manipulative therapy (CMT) and other complementary therapies.
How is this possible? Well, the said approach focuses on strategic manipulation of the body’s alignment, not only to relieve pain but also to enhance function and tap the body’s natural ability to heal itself. All without requiring surgery or medication.
What does a chiropractor do for headaches? While the most common methods that are used by chiro doctors to treat headaches are chiropractic massage therapies, there are other forms of treatment that they employ in an effort to alleviate the symptoms of the said condition. Some of the most notable ones are as follows:
Spinal manipulation
Spinal manipulation, A.K.A chiropractic adjustment, involves applying just the right amount of force to specific joints, most notably in the spine area. This particular method is specifically done to enhance spinal motion and, in turn, improve bodily functions. For headaches, the said method is proven to relieve stress on the body, cut down muscle tension, and improve posture.
According to the Journal of Head and Face Pain, the said benefits are further enhanced if spinal manipulation is performed together with manual therapy.
Soft Tissue therapy
Chiropractic techniques that include but are not limited to chiropractic massage, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, and trigger point therapy, can help improve certain aspects of headaches.
This is according to a study that was released in the National Library of Medicine. It stated that the said forms of treatment may be prescribed for the treatment of migraine headaches with myofascial trigger points in the muscles that surround the cervix.
If properly implemented, they may reduce drug use (over-the-counter and prescription) to treat headaches and, at the same time, enhance body functions.
Postural and Ergonomic Advice
According to the American Migraine Foundation, poor posture such as forward head posture as well as ergonomic irregularities like “tech neck” may contribute to the development of headaches.
In addition to these, prolonged sitting that is coupled with excessive computer use may also contribute to the prevalence of the said condition. This is probably one of the reasons why according to a study that was published in Ateneo de Manila University Health Sciences Faculty Publications, migraine is one of the issues that have a negative impact on work productivity.
This is where chiropractic care comes in. Chiropractors provide guidance with regard to proper posture as well as ergonomic setups at work. Plus, they relay proper ergonomic setups and exercises to improve the said issue, strengthen the neck, and so on. All of which can aid in the prevention of headaches and other conditions.
Important Considerations When Choosing Chiropractic Treatment for Headache
Start With a Consultation
Headache patients, especially those with chronic conditions, are advised to visit both a medical doctor as well as a chiropractic doctor before undergoing treatments. The former can determine the cause of the said condition while the latter can perform the right chiro treatment.
Be Transparent
Patients need to be transparent with their doctor–both medical as well as chiropractic–with regard to their health history, medication and supplementation, and so forth. By doing so a chiropractor can take precautionary measures, if necessary.
Make Chiropractic Care a Complementary Treatment
Chiropractic massage and other forms of treatment may be more effective when utilized in combination with other methods that include but are limited to medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques, among others.
Summing up
If you are seriously contemplating chiropractic massage for headaches, then visit us at Posture Perfect Chiropractic. Our chiropractors are highly qualified and are backed by vast experience when it comes to treating the said ailment. They can thoroughly assess your condition to develop a customized treatment plan and work hand-in-hand with you to monitor your progress. They can also ensure that you can enjoy the full potential of the said treatment.
So, book an appointment at Posture Perfect Chiropractic today! Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are going to guide you through your chiropractic journey and more.
