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Headaches and Chiropractic Care Some estimates suggest that 25 percent of the population has a headache right now. Because headaches are so common, most people think it is a normal part of life. Headaches, however, are a sign that something is wrong. We know that stress, toxic fumes, certain foods and preservatives and even alcohol can cause headaches. A frequent and overlooked cause of headaches is the malfunction of spinal bones in the neck and upper back.  In 1995, the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle, which connects from atlas to occiput, was discovered to have a connective tissue bridge with the dura mater ("Anatomic Relation Between the Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor Muscle and the Dura Mater," JMPT, October 1999). The dura mater surrounds the entire skull and contains many pain receptors. If the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle has a trigger point or atlas is fixated, it is going to cause a shortening of this muscle. When this muscle shortens, it may tug and irritate the dura mater because of the connective tissue bridge they share. Chiropractic adjustments and myofascial release will help to lengthen that muscle and remove any irritation to the dura mater, thereby relieving the headache.
This is why many people have found relief from headaches through regular chiropractic care. Many patients report immediate relief while others find that the correction of their problem takes longer. This is generally because their problem has existed undetected for many years. Every patient responds a bit differently. Regardless of how quick it happens, chiropractic care is a drug-free way to achieve results. If you are suffering from headaches or know someone who is please contact our office and schedule an appointment to see how chiropractic care can help. |
