Understanding Headaches

Recent studies show that 9% of men and 12% of women in the U.S. experience at least 1-2 headache episodes monthly. Additionally, over 4% of the population suffers from frequent headaches, defined as occurring 180 days or more per year. As a result, headaches represent a significant social and economic burden in the U.S. and globally.

Researchers have identified over 300 potential causes of headaches. These can stem from irritation or injury to various pain-sensitive structures, such as the skin, muscles, arteries, periosteal bone coverings, and nerves in the neck and face. Fortunately, only a few of these causes account for the majority of headaches.

The most common types of headaches include:

• Cervicogenic: Caused by issues in the neck
• Muscle-tension: Resulting from neck and upper back muscle spasms
• Post-traumatic: Occurring after head or neck trauma, like whiplash
• Drug-induced: From overuse of pain relievers
• Migraines
• Cluster headaches

Chiropractors are highly effective in helping people find lasting relief from headaches, as many headaches have a spinal, muscular, or habitual cause. In fact, surveys show that 10-25% of people seek chiropractic care specifically to address headache relief.

To explore more about different types of headaches, treatments, prevention strategies, or read articles on the topic, select from the links menu above.