If you are among the 45 million Americans who suffer headaches regularly, you are undoubtedly familiar with the traditional methods that people use to treat them. Over the counter medication that is supposed to eliminate the pain and reduce any associated swelling is often tried. There are many other types of treatment that you may have attempted as well, including taking pharmaceuticals designed to treat pain. For the vast majority of headaches, none of these solutions provide permanent relief that addresses the problem at it’s core.
In the past few decades, there have been an increasing number of patients throughout the country that have begun to seek alternative forms of therapy for all types of conditions, including headaches. One form of treatment that is very promising for physical as well as other types of pain is chiropractic.
This form of care has been used successfully for over a hundred years and has become a regular part of the American healthcare delivery system. In fact, there are an increasing number of insurance providers paying for Greenville SC chiropractic because of its effectiveness.
The Chiropractic Approach
When a person continues their college years beyond their four year undergraduate degree to study chiropractic medicine, they begin by studying the human anatomy in great detail, just like other medical professionals. However, in addition to looking at how all of the parts work together physically, their training primarily focuses upon the diagnosis and treatment of spinal joint dysfunction commonly called subluxations.
Theses subluxations can irritate or compress nerve tissue which influence soft tissue like muscle, ligaments and tendons and can eventually manifest as other health problems if not treated.
Once the nerves are disrupted pain will result. While it usually manifests itself as physical pain, this is not always the case. In some instances, the person may experience difficulties with sleep or other routine habits.
On the first visit with a chiropractor, a review of previous health issues will be completed, an examination and x-rays (if needed) will be performed to determine what types of nerve irritation or joint dysfunction may be occurring. The doctor will listen to the patient attentively and make an assessment, including determining what types of treatment will best suit the patient.
In the case of headaches, the patient may have misalignment (subluxations) in the cervical spine. This may be accompanied by muscles that are unduly tight in the neck, shoulders and nearby areas. Pressure on the nerves may cause sharp stabbing pains or there may be a continual dull throb in the region.
The chiropractor will assess the area and then move forward with treatment known as a chiropractic adjustment in order to relieve the pressure and pain. The relief can be instantaneous, with an increase in range of motion and a lessening of muscle tightness.
Long Term Relief
However, chiropractors don’t just focus on relieving symptoms but rather correcting the problem; if the problem of muscle imbalance or posture is left uncorrected, the pain will continue to return. Additional treatments may follow to help correct the cause, and home care may be recommended, much like orthodontic care for an over bite.
If you need further help with your headaches or are ready to see how beneficial chiropractic care can be to your overall health, please give us a call so that you can schedule an appointment with our office.
Eastside Chiropractic PA
3014 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors SC 29687
864-292-6777
