All About Headaches:

Three Types of Headache

Are you tired of dealing with headaches? Do you find yourself wondering what type of headache you might have and how to treat it effectively? In our latest video, Dr. Ashley, a chiropractor from Bay City, shares her expert insights on the top three types of headaches she frequently encounters in her practice.

 

First up, Dr. Ashley introduces us to cervicogenic headaches.

These headaches are often misdiagnosed but are quite common. They are characterized by tenderness at the back of the skull, which can extend around the eyes. Dr. Ashley emphasizes that cervicogenic headaches are one of the easiest types to treat with chiropractic care, offering quick relief to those who suffer from them.

Next, we move on to tension headaches.

These are typically felt on both sides of the head and are not influenced by physical activity. Whether you're running, walking, or resting, the pain remains constant. Tension headaches are often linked to stress and muscle tension, making them a frequent complaint among office workers and those with high-stress lifestyles. Dr. Ashley provides practical advice on managing and reducing tension headaches through lifestyle changes and chiropractic adjustments.

Finally, Dr. Ashley delves into migraines.

Unlike tension headaches, migraines are usually one-sided and can be triggered by physical activity. Migraines often come with additional symptoms like light sensitivity and can be exacerbated by certain foods, such as chocolate. Dr. Ashley shares valuable tips on identifying migraine triggers and offers strategies for managing the pain and frequency of these debilitating headaches.

 

How do you treat headaches?

Are headaches stopping you from staying focused or getting through your workouts? At our office, we target the muscles and joints to help you find relief. Here’s a quick look at how we treat headaches:

 

Step 1: Relax the Muscles

We begin by loosening tight muscles at the base of your skull using Biofreeze to improve blood flow and ease tension that often causes headaches.

Step 2: Restore Joint Motion 

Next, we check your neck for any areas that aren’t moving well. If there’s restriction, we gently adjust the joints to restore motion and reduce stiffness.

Step 3: Exercises for Home

To keep things moving, we teach you a simple exercise called the "headache snag" to help release tension in the muscles under your skull.

Step 4: Speed Up Healing

Lastly, we use a therapeutic laser to speed up healing and reduce pain, so you can feel better faster.

 

Best Exercise For Headaches Explained:

Cervicogenic headaches are a type of secondary headache, meaning they are caused by an underlying issue—in this case, problems in the cervical spine (neck region). These headaches typically start in the suboccipital muscles, which are located at the base of your skull, and can radiate pain around your eyes. Common symptoms include a stiff neck, pain on one side of the head, and discomfort that worsens with certain neck movements.

The Headache Snag Exercise: A Simple Solution

One of the most effective ways to combat cervicogenic headaches is through targeted exercises that address the root cause. In this video, we introduce you to the headache snag exercise, a simple yet powerful technique that can provide significant relief.

Here's how to perform the headache snag exercise:

1. Grab a rope or a similar object.

2. Place the rope around your neck and cross your arms.

3. The arm on top should rotate your head towards that side.

4. Passively pull the rope, ensuring you don't choke yourself.

5. Repeat the movement ten times on each side.

This exercise targets the suboccipital muscles, providing a gentle stretch that can help alleviate tension and reduce headache frequency.

Why You Should Tune-in

If you're tired of letting headaches control your life, this video is a must-watch. Not only will you gain a better understanding of cervicogenic headaches, but you'll also learn a practical exercise that can make a world of difference. Whether you're dealing with chronic headaches or occasional discomfort, the headache snag exercise is a valuable tool to have in your wellness arsenal.

Don't let cervicogenic headaches hold you back any longer. Tune in to our latest video and take the first step towards a pain-free life. And remember, if you're struggling with persistent headaches, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

 

 Watch the full video now!