While headaches may not always seem like a serious health concern, ongoing pain, even at a low level, can significantly affect our physical and mental well-being. In fact, the NHS reports that more than 10 million people in the UK regularly suffer from headaches, highlighting the widespread nature of this issue.
If you frequently experience headaches, particularly those that feel like a tight band around your forehead, neck tension is likely the root cause. Although stress and dehydration can trigger headaches, over 70% of them actually originate from the neck. These are known as tension headaches, caused by muscle contractions in the head and neck.
Neck tension, whether it results in mild, moderate, or severe headaches, can stem from various activities, such as prolonged computer use, looking down at your phone, or driving long distances. Headaches are one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor and are responsible for many missed days at work. They can make it difficult to focus, concentrate, and even affect your mood.
Over time, the persistent pressure in our heads can lead to a numbing effect, where people no longer recognize headaches as the serious warning signs they are. If you find yourself relying on painkillers more frequently to manage headaches, it may be time to consider what’s truly causing the pain. While painkillers can provide short-term relief, they only mask the symptoms and can have several negative effects on our bodies.
Regular use of opioid pain relievers, for instance, has been associated with side effects ranging from constipation and hormone imbalances to a weakened immune system, depression, and even worsened pain. These medications might also obscure more serious conditions that require diagnosis and treatment, such as a brain tumor. A study by the Mayo Clinic found that overuse of these drugs can lead to “rebound” headaches, where pain returns as the medication wears off.
If you went to the dentist with a toothache and they simply told you to take painkillers, you’d be confused—after all, the issue is with your tooth. Dentists treat the problem rather than just masking it, much like chiropractors.
So, what should you do if headaches are limiting your daily activities? Whether you’re missing out on your favorite sports or cutting short fun outings with friends and family due to headaches, chiropractic care offers a way to regain control of your life. Chiropractic treatment is often more effective in preventing pain than quick fixes, as research and our own experiences at Willow Chiropractic show that the most common types of headaches respond well to this approach.
At Avalon Chiropractic, we take the time to understand your unique circumstances and how your pain affects your life. We thoroughly assess your situation to provide the best possible care.
Your chiropractor will examine the vertebrae in your neck and adjust any joints that aren’t functioning properly. Chiropractic care works by removing the blockages that impair nervous system function, helping to relieve headaches so you can enjoy the activities you love without pain.
Improving posture is also key to reducing neck misalignment, so we’ll recommend simple changes you can incorporate into your daily routine, such as better sleeping positions.
Additionally, learning to manage stress more effectively can prevent neck muscle tension and subsequent headaches. Taking regular breaks, staying active, and keeping your spine flexible are all strategies that can help.
Whether you’re dealing with occasional severe headaches or a chronic issue, neck tension doesn’t have to trap you in a cycle of pain and medication. At Willow, we go beyond merely diagnosing pain—we work with you to develop a plan that helps you get back to living your life to the fullest.