Headaches, Migraines and Chiropractic Care

Headaches have many causes, and chiropractic care isn't the answer to all of them. Here is what the research says, and when a headache needs a doctor right away.

What the research says

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) says that for cervicogenic headache, a headache that starts in the neck, spinal manipulation "may reduce the frequency and intensity" of attacks. For migraine, it says reviewers "considered the results to be preliminary."

In a separate summary on headaches, NCCIH describes research on spinal manipulation for migraine prevention as not conclusive. It also says that "only a small number of studies of massage for headache have been completed, and their results are not consistent."

Plain reading: there is some evidence that manipulation may help certain headaches, mainly those that start in the neck. For migraine it is not settled.

Everyday steps

The NHS (a UK source) headache advice includes drinking plenty of water, resting, trying to relax because stress can make headaches worse, not skipping meals, not sleeping more than usual, not straining your eyes for a long time and not drinking alcohol. It lists paracetamol (acetaminophen in the US) or ibuprofen as options.

When a headache is an emergency

The NHS says to get emergency help if a headache comes with any of these: a seizure; numbness or weakness in the body or face; a sudden onset that is extremely painful; a head injury within the last 3 months; difficulty speaking, balancing, walking or remembering things; drowsiness or confusion; loss of vision; a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it; or a very high temperature, a stiff neck, or bright lights bothering you. It also says to seek urgent help for a headache with vomiting, or with jaw pain when eating or a sore or tender scalp. In the US, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

The rare risk

NCCIH says neck-focused manipulation has been linked to rare artery tears that can lead to a stroke. See our post on the safety of chiropractic care, and tell your chiropractor about any recent neck injury.

Next step

If headaches keep coming back, book online or call 484.455.4664. Keep It Kinetic Chiropractic is at 3254 W Ridge Pike, Suite 202, Pottstown, PA 19464.