We see a large number of individuals with headaches in our Shoreview, MN office, and Dr. Jane Steffen Bye has been able to support many of them. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that half of all adults have difficulties with some type of headache problem, so this certainly isn’t a surprise. One of the most common varieties of headaches that our patients have problems with is cervicogenic headache which, luckily for us, chiropractic can often help.
What is a Cervicogenic Headache?
A cervicogenic headache is one that originates from problems in the cervical spine. It can easily be as a result of an issue with either the spine itself (in particular, the vertebrae, joints, or discs), or it could be triggered by a problem in the muscles and tendons of your neck. This problem in your spine brings about squeezing or aggravation of the spinal nerves, which can result in headache pain.
How do you tell if the headache you are feeling is a cervicogenic headache? Besides obtaining a diagnosis from a healthcare expert, a common symptom of cervicogenic headaches is tenderness or discomfort in your neck. This is sometimes coupled with pain in the back of your head or between your shoulder blades.
How Chiropractic Helps
Considering cervicogenic headaches will not go away until whatever issue is initiating them is corrected, it is essential to receive treatment instead of just trying to "wait it out." Chiropractic care is an excellent solution, and one that provides a great deal of pain relief.
In one study published in Chiropractic & Osteopathy, researchers followed 80 people who had repeated cervicogenic headaches. Half received chiropractic care and the other 50% underwent light massage therapy. Each participant was assessed 12 and 24 weeks after the procedures and it was discovered that chiropractic offered the best outcomes.
Specifically, this study uncovered that chiropractic adjustments offered patients enhanced pain relief and lessened the frequency of headaches that occurred. Additionally, it also diminished the disability that resulted from these painful headaches.
To find out what Dr. Jane Steffen Bye can do for you and your headache pain, call our office today. We'll do our best to get you the pain relief you deserve!
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