Tension headaches are the most common form of headache affecting approximately 75% of headache sufferers. Typical symptoms of a tension headache are a constant dull, achy feeling either on one or both sides of the head, a tight band like feeling around the head or base of the skull, or aching behind the eyes. Tension headaches are typically the result of stress or poor posture which puts additional strain on the spine and muscles of the upper back and neck. Tension headaches usually begin gradually and can last from a few minutes to a couple of days, in some cases chronic tension headaches may persist for a few weeks to months. Although the pain from tension headaches can be severe they are not usually associated with other symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Cluster headaches are usually felt on one side of the head behind the eye, are excruciating, typically very short in duration and tend to occur in clusters of a few times a day for a couple of days. Cluster headaches are more common in men and there will often be month to years between episodes. Like Migraines the pain from cluster headaches typically results from an increase in intracranial pressure due to a dilation of the blood vessels.
A 2001 report from researchers at Duke University found that “spinal manipulation resulted in almost immediate improvement for headaches originating in the neck, and had significantly fewer side effects and longer lasting relief of tension-type headache than commonly prescribed medications”.
If you or someone you know experiences headaches it is important to understand they don’t have to be a normal part of day to day life and an in depth examination by a health professional such as a chiropractor may be able to find the root cause of the issue.
At Total Balance Chiropractic, we understand the mechanisms of the numerous headache types and their causes. Our team thoroughly assess each patient with a neurological and chiropractic examination to determine the cause for your headaches. To find out more please call our team on (02) 49692886. To book an appointment click here.
