Headaches & Migraines

Headache, also known as cephalalgia, is the symptom of pain anywhere in the region of the head. The neck is a common origin site of the nerve referred pain felt as a tight band around the head or directly behind the eye. It occurs in migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches. Frequent headaches can affect relationships and employment. There is also an increased risk of depression in those with severe headaches.

Headaches can occur as a result of many conditions whether serious or not. There are a number of different classification systems for headaches. The most well-recognized is that of the International Headache Society. Besides nerve referred pain, other causes of headaches may include fatigue, sleep deprivation, stress, the effects of medications, the effects of recreational drugs, viral infections, common colds, head injury, rapid ingestion of a very cold food or beverage,and dental or sinus issues.

Studies from the medical and chiropractic literature show a correlation between a cervical biomechanical dysfunction and headaches/migraines. The correction of this dysfunction should be given preeminence over pharmacologic palliative care.