Headache Specialist

What causes headaches?

We all experience headaches from time to time. Dehydration, tension, and food sensitivities are common causes of headaches. However, what many people don’t know is spinal misalignment, particularly in the cervical spine, can compress the nerves in your face and head, causing painful chronic headaches and migraines. Additionally, misalignment elsewhere in the spine can cause muscle tension or spasm in the neck or shoulders which also can lead to painful headaches. This misalignment and muscle tension can put pressure on the trigeminal complex, the bundle of nerves that passes through the cervical vertebrae which is also responsible for much of the physical sensations, including pain, that you feel in your head.

When should I have chiropractic care for headaches and migraines?

Dr. Key offers a natural, medication-free treatment for chronic headaches and migraines. He takes your overall health, wellbeing, and lifestyle into account when diagnosing the root cause of your headaches. While it is normal to experience headaches every now and then, if you experience headaches or migraines more than a few times a year or if the pain is so bad that it prevents you from going to work or school, you should seek treatment. Chiropractic care often is more effective than traditional medical treatments because it addresses structural alignment issues and lifestyle habits immediately and does not rely on prescription medication, which may produce unwanted side effects.

How does chiropractic care with Dr. Key treat and relieve headaches?

Dr. Key first conducts a comprehensive physical exam to identify any misalignments or impingements that may be causing your headaches. After he identifies the misalignments in your spine, he begins treatment. In many cases, when treating the neck, a gentle massage releases any tension in the muscles and soft tissues before structural adjustments are made. The adjustments are practiced, sharp movements of the spine that correct any impingements by correcting the alignment of the vertebrae. In addition to the adjustments, Dr. Key may offer advice and suggestions on behavioral modifications that may help to protect your spine or improve your overall health and wellbeing by limiting your exposure to potential triggers for headaches and migraines.

If you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines, make an appointment with Dr. Key for diagnosis and treatment. There is no reason to live with pain when treatment and care are so readily available.