Gardner Schofield Chiropractic

HEADACHES

In our office most of our patients suffering from headaches do not have a problem in their head, but rather in their cervical (neck) spine. Headaches are usually a symptom of a hidden condition called Subluxation.

The term subluxation means there is a misalignment in the spine. When a subluxation occurs it can limit mobility, create inflammation and ignite chronic pain.

A recent study found that over 40 percent of headache sufferers’ pain started with an incidence in the cervical (neck) spine (Wien Med Wochenschr 1994; 144:102-8).

How do subluxations cause head pain?

First, the tendons and muscles connect the vertebrae (spinal bones) to muscles of the head, neck and back. Subluxations alter muscle function, spurring muscle tension and pain.

Second, the spinal cord contains nerves that emerge between vertebrae and transmit information to and from the body and brain. Therefore, subluxations may inhibit transmission between the nerves, spinal cord, and the brain.

CHIROPRACTIC

We have great news!!! Chiropractors correct subluxations. Doctors of chiropractic use gentle, specific adjustments to realign the spine and restore movement, relieving pain.

Research has shown that chiropractic care is as effective as prescription medication for tension headaches and migraines and more effective than massage (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2001; 24:457-66).

EXERCISE

A combination of exercise and chiropractic is even more effective than chiropractic alone.

A study was done separating the participants in to four groups: chiropractic care, exercise, both chiropractic care and exercise or no-care control group.

After one year, the group with the highest number of patients who enjoyed a reduction in neck pain and headache frequency and intensity was the combined therapy group.

The research found that “manipulative therapy and exercise can reduce the symptoms of headache, and the effects are maintained.” (Spine 2002; 27:1835-43.)

This entry was posted on Wednesday, February 29th, 2012 at 4:18 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.