Headache Awareness Week is June 2-8. Millions of Americans suffer needlessly from chronic headaches, and many do not realize that there are safe alternatives to prescription and OTC medications.
Almost everyone has experienced a headache at some point. Whether it is a tension headache across the forehead from stress, a pounding headache from celebrating too much over Memorial Weekend, or a migraine that keeps you in bed for days, you have probably had one. It’s important to realize that each type of headache pain and/or location describes a different cause, and therefore a different solution. While popping a couple of Tylenol may temporarily give relief, it doesn’t fix the problem. In some instances, it may be covering up serious warning signs, making the problem worse. When is the last time you heard someone say they had a headache from a lack of Tylenol?
Many headaches stem from problems in the neck and cranial areas, and are easily and successfully treated by a chiropractor. Some headaches are caused by dehydration and a glass of water will do the trick. Migraines can be triggered by food allergies or other irritating substances. Others may be caused by sinus problems or seasonal changes. Sometimes they can be caused by eye-strain and/or poor posture while sitting at a computer all day. Stress is also a major cause of headaches. As we tense up our neck, shoulder and upper back muscles, which can shift the vertebrae in our neck out of alignment. TMJ or jaw pain is another common cause of headaches. The list goes on and on, but next time you get a headache, take note of the following:
1) Have you had anything like this before?
2) Can you pinpoint a cause?
3) Any changes in vision?
4) Describe the pain: pounding, sharp, dull, achy, radiating.
5) Has it been getting better or worse since it began?
6) Do you feel dizzy or light-headed?
The answers to these questions will help your chiropractor determine if it is problem that they can help with, or if it is a more serious matter that needs urgent attention. After doing a thorough exam and asking you a series of questions, adjustments will be administered if appropriate. You will probably notice some relief right away, and may even be given suggestions and exercises to relax tight muscles to prevent future headaches.
So next time you have a headache, don’t reach for the drugs. Try chiropractic adjustments as a treatment AND a prevention, and get real relief once and for all. Also consider trying pure essential oils, such as Peppermint, PanAway, M-Grain and Deep Relief to help ease the pain of a headache.
Dr. Brenda Trudell is a chiropractor and owner of New Beginnings Chiropractic in Mount Horeb, WI. The clinic focuses on natural health, especially for women, pregnancy and children through chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, fitness, nutrition, essential oils, and more. As a female chiropractor, she understands the special circumstances surrounding women's health. Men and women are not created equal, and it is important to acknowledge that in the healthcare world. She strives to find the most current healthcare information to help all of her patients.
Dr. Trudell is available to present to groups on many different topics. Please contact the office for details or with any questions. Dr. Trudell is certified in the Webster Technique. For more information, visit newbeginningschiropractic.net or email at brendatrudell@drtrudell.com.
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