The pattern of a headache matters
“Headache” describes a symptom, not one single condition. Some headaches occur with neck stiffness, muscle tension or reduced cervical movement. Others fit a migraine pattern or may be related to illness, medication, dehydration, vision problems, concussion or another medical condition. That is why the history matters before deciding whether chiropractic care is relevant.
At Henschell Chiropractic, we ask when the headaches began, where they are felt, how often they occur, how long they last, what other symptoms accompany them and whether they are associated with neck pain, an accident or a change in activity.
Headaches that occur with neck pain or stiffness
Some patients notice headaches together with tightness at the base of the skull, upper-back tension, reduced ability to turn the head or discomfort after prolonged desk work. When the examination suggests that musculoskeletal factors are contributing, chiropractic care, soft-tissue treatment and movement recommendations may be appropriate parts of care.
Headaches after a car accident deserve careful evaluation
A new headache after a collision should not automatically be labeled a “neck headache.” We ask about head impact, loss of consciousness, confusion, dizziness, nausea, vision changes and other symptoms that can affect the need for medical evaluation. When the presentation is appropriate for chiropractic care, the neck, upper back and associated functional limitations can be addressed as part of the injury plan.
Migraine and chiropractic care
Migraine is a neurologic condition and can involve throbbing pain, light or sound sensitivity, nausea, visual symptoms or other features. Chiropractic treatment is not presented as a cure for migraine. Our role is most relevant when a patient also has neck or musculoskeletal findings that may be contributing to discomfort or limiting function. Patients with migraine may still need medical management, medication or evaluation from another healthcare provider.
What we evaluate
The examination may include cervical and upper-back movement, tenderness, orthopedic testing and neurologic screening when appropriate. We also look at posture and the activities that precede symptoms, such as driving, computer work, sleep position or exercise. The purpose is to determine whether there is a reasonable musculoskeletal component to address and whether anything in the history suggests a need for referral.
Care can include more than an adjustment
Depending on findings, treatment may include chiropractic care, massage or soft-tissue therapy, mobility work and home exercise. If prolonged posture or reduced movement tolerance appears to contribute, functional rehabilitation can help improve upper-back mobility, neck control and tolerance for work or activity.
Know when a headache needs urgent medical care
Seek urgent evaluation for a sudden “worst headache,” a severe new headache after significant trauma, headache with new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, fever with significant neck stiffness, difficulty speaking, major vision change or other rapidly worsening neurologic symptoms. A new or substantially different headache pattern also deserves appropriate medical assessment.