Headaches
A careful assessment can help identify whether neck-related factors contribute to your headaches and when other medical care is needed.
Different headaches need different care
Headaches have many possible causes, including migraine, tension-type headaches, and headaches associated with the neck. Neck stiffness may accompany a headache, but it does not establish that the neck is the source.
Tell your provider about the frequency, location, intensity, and duration of your headaches. A record of sleep, meals, medications, and accompanying symptoms can help you describe the pattern.
Evaluating neck-related symptoms
An examination and health history help determine whether a musculoskeletal component may be appropriate for chiropractic care. Referral to a primary care provider or another specialist may be needed, especially for a new or changing headache pattern.
For suitable cases, care may address neck movement, muscle tension, and daily habits with gentle treatment and exercises. Chiropractic care is not a cure for all headaches and should not replace prescribed migraine treatment.
Headache warning signs
Seek emergency care for a sudden, extremely severe headache, or a headache with weakness, confusion, fainting, speech or vision changes, or fever and a stiff neck. A worsening headache after a head injury also requires prompt medical assessment.
If headaches are recurring or interfering with daily life, arrange an evaluation and bring a list of medications and treatments you have tried.
Let’s talk about your care.
Symmetry Chiropractic · Hillsboro, Oregon · Se habla español