Using A Chiropractor To Treat Headaches

In the United States, a chiropractor is the healthcare professional who is most likely to manipulate the spine in a process called an adjustment. Most people associate chiropractors with back pain. However, chiropractic treatment can be used to care for many other ailments including headaches. More than 14,000 consumers surveyed regarding their satisfaction with healthcare providers rated chiropractic treatment their top choice, as reported in the May 2009 Consumer Reports.

Adjustments by a Doctor of Chiropractic to the upper bones of the neck work to relieve irritated nerves and joints that may precipitate headaches. Chiropractic remedies may even be more effective than other methods and types of headache treatments. A study, by researchers, of patients with chronic cervicogenic headaches (meaning originating from the upper area of the cervical spine) revealed greater improvement resulting from chiropractic care than from massage treatment. This published study of the The Spine Journal in February 2010 is only one of numerous papers noting the effectiveness of chiropractic for headache treatment.

Another study that involved tension headache patients was published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. One group was treated with medication, the other received chiropractic care, and after a six-week period of treatment, both reported less intense and fewer headaches. However, 82 percent of the chiropractic patients reported fewer side effects. In addition, the chiropractic patients reported continuing relief after the study concluded. The patients who took the medication reported that their headache pain returned.

Since they have never had reason to visit a chiropractor, some people are not familiar with chiropractic treatment and may be hesitant to use it. There is no need for concern because a chiropractor must participate in an extensive period of intense education in order to practice professionally. Patients will not hesitate to make a recommendation or testimonial for a good chiropractor. They are living pain-free lives thanks to this treatment and they are happy to discuss the results.

For people who would rather avoid taking medication, chiropractic is a viable alternative. Drug therapy only masks the symptoms of headaches while chiropractic focuses on treating the cause. After an examination, the chiropractor will determine the cause and discuss recommended adjustment methods designed to provide relief. Treatments are gentle, non-invasive and performed in the chiropractic office. Most responsible insurance plans cover chiropractic treatment, allowing headache sufferers to get cost-effective relief without financial stress.

Chiropractic training allows doctors to do more than just administer spinal manipulations. Chiropractors also recommend lifestyle changes that may help minimize the risk of developing headaches in the future. Stress, posture, every day activities, and even dietary sensitivities can contribute to this medical issue. By, diligently, following the advice of the chiropractor, patients begin feeling better and are able to maintain the results through recommended practices.

By changing certain points within the spinal alignment, chiropractors can help patients suffering from headaches. This treatment is not painful and many patients report a release of pressure after receiving chiropractic treatment. As one popular type of treatment, chiropractic is worthy of some investigation by anyone suffering from headache pain who is ready for a permanent solution.

Don Grant Rebel is an author writing about health related topics. Are you looking for a Pittsburgh North Hills chiropractor? Get more information about this chiropractor Pittsburgh North Hills.

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