Today, headaches are considered to be one of the most prevalent symptoms in the world. It is estimated that 9 out of 10 people in the USA experience headaches. The severity, frequency, and intensity of a headache episode are not similar. Some experience mild aches, while others feel intense stabbing pain, but most describe it as an intense throbbing pain. While some have an occasional headache perhaps a few times a month, there are many that have a headache on continual daily basis. Taking medications when you have headaches may be an effective short term fix; it is not a long term solution. Some people develop immunity to the medications after taking them a long time. There is a less expensive and more effective alternative for headache relief, and that is the treatment offered by a chiropractor.

Chiropractic care utilizes spinal adjustments to effectively and safely rid tension headaches and pain coming from the neck area. Research on headaches was conducted in 2001 by the prestigious Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center in Durham NC. The research report showed that spinal adjustments by a chiropractor enabled participants to experience immediate relief from headaches and had a major impact of the headaches that originated from tension in the neck. The treatment was found to have fewer side effects and resulted in greater efficacy then medications.

The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics conducted a study in 1995 to determine the effects of chiropractic care on tension headaches. The study found that the relief from chiropractic care resulted in longer duration than medications used for headache relief. Participants reported having no headaches or side effects four weeks after ceasing chiropractic treatment.

Neck tension accounts for about 95% of all headaches. Neck stress is due to staying in one position for a long period of time, like using a phone, or blow drying your hair. This prolonged and repetitive usage can lead to irritation in joints, tension in neck, upper back and scalp pain leading to headaches.

When required to be in a position for a prolonged period of time like sitting, computer usage, sewing, or reading you should stop every 30 minutes and do some stretching exercises on your head and neck.

Your Pittsfield Chiropractor, Dr. Scott Garber, of Chiropractic Works Pittsfield is an expert at administering chiropractic therapies to restore your spine to its normal functioning. This will quickly relieve the neck from stress and reduce the neck pain you have. Chiropractors are trained to recommend exercise, diet, relaxation techniques, and proper posture and ergonomics to help eliminate headaches.