Wilmington NC Tension Headache Sufferers Find Relief With Chiropractic

Tension headaches are often described as a dull band of pain, surrounding one's head above the sufferer's eyes. These headaches are estimated to affect as many as 90% of all adults. While they are the most common form of headache, their exact cause is unknown. With care from a chiropractor Wilmington residents may suffer less pain.

Tension headaches are also referred to as stress headaches, as physical and emotional stress may trigger the pain. They usually start with a mild pain that increases in intensity. The pain is sometimes severe and may last for several hours or even days. Chronic sufferers may be affected more than 15 days per month. This type of pain affects approximately 3% of the population. Other sufferers experience episodic headaches.

Muscle tension and emotional stress may have something to do with these headaches. Other possible causes include fluctuations in certain chemicals in the brain. These fluctuations may prevent the brain from stopping pain.

Spinal problems may also cause the pain. If a vertebra is out of place, it can press on the nerves as they exit the spine. The resulting nerve interference disrupts communication between the body and brain. In addition to other conditions, this may cause chronic headaches.

If a spinal problem is the cause of one's headaches, it is usually due to a bone that is out of place in the cervical spine. The misalignment may be due to neck or head trauma. Common causes include auto accidents and falls. However, it is possible for the injury to occur without the individual being aware of it.

Chiropractors consider one's health history as well as a manual exam of the spine to locate the problem. If a problem is located in the spine the doctor uses gentle forces to restore balance to the neck. With help from a chiropractor Wilmington residents often suffer fewer headaches. If headaches strike, their force may be weakened.