A Chiropractor Can Help You STOP Your Headaches

50% of people get headaches. Don't let it be you!

Headaches affect one out of two people in Edmonton

While headaches range in severity from ‘mild background annoyance” all the way to leaving you curled up in a ball, crying yourself to sleep.

Headaches create a large burden on society, causing lost work days, lost time with your family and friends, and they can make people miserable.

While many people think “oh its just a headache”, there are in fact over 100 types off headaches!

The three big types of headache include Migraines, Tension Type Headaches, and cervicogenic headache - very common after a motor vehicle collision!

The Type of Headaches We Treat

We offer a range of massage therapy services to cater to different preferences and needs.

At Riverbend Massage Therapy we offer many forms of massage treatments. The therapists at the clinic specialize in:

therapeutic deep tissue massage, sport massage, prenatal massage, relaxation massage, Rapid neurofascial reset, as well as myofascial release and myofascial cupping.

Health Benefits of No Headaches

Headaches suck. They suck the joy, and life out of you.

Pain Relief: No headaches mean your head is no longer hurting!

Stress Reduction: No headaches mean lower stress levels.

Better Sleep: No headache means better sleep patterns and overall restfulness.

Enhanced Flexibility: No headaches makes your life more flexible. I never want to do anything when I have a headache.

Bottom line

Not having headaches just makes you a better person! We can help you get there!

Migraines

Migraines are more than just a headache.

They are a complicated, chronic neurological condition. While majority of migraines are able to be managed, some are debilitating.

On average, people with migraine miss 6 days of work a year. They are often associated with nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light and sounds, and impact your day to day activities.

The key for managing, and treating migraines is all about understanding what your triggers are, and using every tool available to stop them in their tracks before they start.

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Tension Type Headache

Tension headaches are on the same ‘spectrum’ as migraines. However, they typically have more neck involvement. Said another way, problems with your neck are more closely linked to tension type headaches than migraines.

The word itself “Tension Headache” implies that ‘tension’ is the cause…

It isn’t.

Tension headaches are similar to migraines in that they are a complicated, often genetically predisposed condition that a has different triggers that elicit the headache.

Tension, pain, stress, hunger, certain foods, lack of sleep, Karen at work, etc…these can all be triggers that bring on the headache.

Treating tension headaches often involves managing the triggers (avoid a Karen at all costs!), improving posture, sleep hygiene, etc.

Also, treating a painful, or dysfunctional neck will be paramount for those with tension headaches. This is where chiropractic shines! Soft tissue therapies such as

myofascial release therapy,

joint manipulation, physical rehabilitation are all useful tools.

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Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic headaches are due to a problem with your neck. Unlike Tension Headaches, and Migraines where neck pain or problems are a TRIGGER….

In cervicogenic headaches, the neck is THE problem. If you solve the neck injury, the headache will go away!

These types of headaches are present in roughly 3-35% of people, depending on the study you read. They are even higher in those who have suffered a whiplash injury.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Headaches

How can chiropractic care help relieve my migraines?

Chiropractic care can help relieve migraines by addressing the type of migraine and removing the triggers. This involves identifying specific spinal dysfunction, and other contributing factors to your migraines. By correcting these issues through targeted adjustments, chiropractic care can reduce both the frequency and intensity of your migraines, offering a natural and effective solution without solely relying on medications.

What’s the difference between a tension headache and a cervicogenic headache?

Tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches can be difficulty to distinguish from each other. While tension headaches are typically thought to be due to "stress" and "tension"...what if I told you that they are not? Tension headaches are due to a genetic predisposition, and faulty central nervous system that makes stressors such as 'tension', 'stress', tight muscles, jaw pain, neck pain etc elicit the headache.

Cervicogenic headaches on the other hand are from an injury to your neck. The cervical spine is the generator of the headache. If you solve your neck injury, your headaches will go away!

Can massage therapy prevent headaches or just provide temporary relief?

Massage therapy can do both. Regular sessions can help prevent headaches by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation. For those experiencing headaches, massage therapy provides immediate relief by addressing the underlying muscle tension that often contributes to the pain.

Is chiropractic care safe for treating headaches?

Yes, chiropractic care is safe for treating headaches, especially when performed by a licensed and experienced chiropractor. Chiropractic treatment is non-invasive. We focus on restoring proper function to the spine, and body which can alleviate headache symptoms without the need for medication.

How many sessions will I need to see results for my headaches?

The number of sessions needed varies from person to person, depending on the severity and frequency of your headaches. Some patients experience relief after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing care. During your initial consultation, your chiropractor will provide a personalized treatment plan based on your specific condition.

I've had some patients experience nearly 100% resolution of their headache after one treatment. Others take weeks. Unfortunately we don't know for sure until we start treatment.

What should I expect during a chiropractic visit for headaches?

During a chiropractic visit for headaches, the chiropractor will first diagnose the type of headache that you have. Your diagnosis, along with contributing factors that are relevant to your headache dictates what the best treatment options to eliminate your headache are.

Treatment approaches may include some form of adjustment, soft tissue therapy, acupuncture, supplements, stretches, exercises, elimination diet... headaches are complicated! It often takes a complicated approach to effectively treat the most complicated headaches.

Can poor posture really cause headaches, and how can chiropractic care help?

Yes, poor posture can contribute to headaches by placing extra strain on your neck and upper back muscles, leading to tension and pain. I used to get headaches while in school from long hours of sitting, and studying for those fun exams ( I still get nightmares that I missed the test!). Chiropractic care and massage therapy helps by correcting spinal function and providing guidance on proper posture, which can reduce the strain on your muscles and decrease the frequency of headaches.

Are there specific massage techniques that work best for headaches?

Yes, certain massage techniques are particularly effective for headaches. For example, deep tissue massage can help release chronic muscle tension, while trigger point therapy focuses on specific tight spots that may be contributing to your headaches. Your massage therapist will tailor the session to address the type of headache you're experiencing.

Can chiropractic or massage therapy eliminate the need for headache medications?

While chiropractic and massage therapy can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of headaches, the need for medication depends on the individual. You need to discuss this with your medical doctor and/or pharmacist.

Many patients find that they can reduce or eliminate their reliance on medications with regular treatment, but this should be discussed with your medical doctor.

What lifestyle changes can I make alongside treatment to reduce my headache frequency?

To reduce headache frequency, you can make several lifestyle changes, including improving your posture, staying hydrated, managing stress, getting regular exercise, and ensuring you get enough sleep. Your chiropractor or massage therapist can also recommend specific stretches and exercises to support your treatment plan to eliminate those nasty headaches, and stop them from coming back!