Headaches can assume a variety of forms for a variety of reasons, from dehydration to serious cerebrospinal diseases. for the outstanding majority of individuals, however, a nagging ache in the head is related to either tension headaches or migraines. While these two conditions may have some overlapping triggers, they have important differences of their own:

A tension headache usually occurs when muscles in the neck or shoulders suffer from acute or chronic tightness or spasms. This tension is transferred to sensitive membranes near the base of the skull, which then react by spreading diffuse pain throughout the head. The tension that causes these headaches may be related to a recent injury or trauma (including whiplash), or it may be the result of a subtle misalignment in the upper cervical spine that places unusual stresses on the muscles.

A migraine may present numerous symptoms in addition to acute head pain, including visual and hearing disturbances, vomiting, nausea, lightheadedness and even fainting. Migraines seem to be related to neurotransmitter imbalances that affect the cranial nerves and blood vessels. They can be triggered by a wide range of stimuli, from changes in the weather and specific foods to hormonal shifts, flashing lights, and (as in tension headaches) physical stress. A migraine attack may go on for up to 72 brutal hours at a time.

Our Franklin chiropractor, Dr. Reinarts, can provide more satisfying headache and migraine treatment than the temporary, incomplete effects of medications. Chiropractic adjustment of the cervical spine can be extremely effective at relieving imbalances that promote muscle tension, reducing the odds of a tension headache flare-up. We may also suggest postural and lifestyle changes to help you keep your neck and head in healthy positions on a more consistent basis.

Chiropractic care is also good for migraines. Studies show that this service can make migraines both less frequent and less intense. Spinal adjustment relieves a possible trigger by removing physical stress; it also normalizes nerve function so your whole body can operate more correctly. Our nutritional counseling service can also help you identify foods that set off your migraines so you can void them going forward.

Now is the time to get ahead of your headache or migraine problem once and for all. Call 615-538-6061 to schedule an evaluation and treatment from our Franklin chiropractor!