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Tension headaches are classically defined as a headband like pressure around the skull. The cause of them is in the title: tension. But tension can stem from different things, such as muscles, blood vessels, or neurologic mechanisms. Tension headaches respond well to musculoskeletal treatments (chiropractic, acupuncture, massage), stress reduction techniques, and autonomic based therapies.
While migraine is its own complex neurologic illness, head pain is often associated with attacks. Most people with ongoing migraine attacks will first try medication given by their primary provider. If this doesn’t work, functional medicine, functional neurology, upper cervical chiropractic, and hormone specialist are good options to address all the factors that produce migraine attacks.
Cervicogenic means headache that comes from the neck. It can stem from postural issues, soft tissue, bone alignment or neurologic deficits. Most people will get some form of imaging to ensure the issues doesn’t require immediate medical attention. X-rays or MRI scans are common tests for cervical damage. After these are clear, PT, massage, and chiropractic work well for these types of issues. Make sure you screen for providers with your long term wellness in mind; not just short term relief
Autonomic headaches occur when there is an imbalance in the “fight or flight” and “rest and digest” systems. Common symptoms with autonomic headaches are dizziness, light headedness, fatigue, elevated heart rate upon standing, and blood pooling in lower extremities. Autonomic issues can increase intracranial pressure leading to headaches. Search “autonomic specialist near me” to find a qualified provider to assess and treat underlying autonomic problems.
If you’re struggling with ongoing headaches and don’t know where to turn, click here for a free 30 minute consultation with one of our doctors at The Neural Connection. We can help narrow in on what’s causing your headaches and direct you to the most appropriate care, even if it’s not with us.
