Different kinds of headaches
Tension-type headaches feel like a tight band or pressure around the head and often come with tight neck and shoulder muscles. Some headaches start in the neck itself (cervicogenic headaches). Migraines are a different condition: a throbbing headache, often on one side, that can bring nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Common signs
- Pressure or a tight band around the forehead or temples
- Pain that starts at the base of the skull
- Headaches that build through the workday
- Jaw tension or clicking
Get care right away if you have
- A sudden, severe "worst headache of your life"
- Headache with fever and a stiff neck
- Headache with confusion, weakness, trouble speaking or vision loss (call 911)
- A headache after a blow to the head
How we help at Grace Wellness
We check your neck, upper back and posture for sources of tension.
Care may include upper-neck adjustments, massage for tight muscles, acupuncture, and posture and workstation tips. Migraine is a medical condition, so we work alongside your physician.
What happens at your first visit
- Paperwork. A few forms about your health. Fill them out online before you arrive to save time.
- Consultation and exam. You talk through your symptoms and goals, then your doctor checks posture, range of motion, reflexes and strength.
- X-rays, only if needed. Taken right here in the office, no separate appointment.
- Your first treatment. In most cases you're treated the same day, and your doctor explains each step before starting.
Questions patients ask
Can a chiropractor help tension headaches?
Tension headaches often come with tight neck and shoulder muscles and stiff neck joints, which is what we treat. Your doctor examines you first and explains what they find.
Do you treat migraines?
We can help with the neck and muscle tension that often comes with migraines, and we work alongside your physician, who manages the migraine itself.
Could my jaw be causing my headaches?
Sometimes. Jaw clenching and TMJ problems can cause headaches and face pain. We check the jaw, neck and upper back together.
Related care
Sources: MedlinePlus: Headache. MedlinePlus: Migraine. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Your doctor will examine you and explain your options.