Relieving Headaches and Migraines

The holiday season can be the cause of temporary, yet major shifts in our regular routines and behaviors. These shifts may include: Playing more winter sports, increasing our chance for concussions; For the less active, staring at television or cell phone screens more than normal; Or even just a change in sleep patterns. And what do these behavioral shifts all have in common? They have the potential to lead to headaches and migraines. Fortunately, headaches and migraines may be improved with a visit to a chiropractor, providing all natural care and helping you to avoid pain relieving drugs entirely.

In this article we will walk you through these three common sources of headaches and migraines, and share with you how our team of chiropractors may help to alleviate your pain.

Concussions

Concussions can often be caused by a quick blow to the head, or intense upper body shaking, which can lead to headaches, difficulty with vision, concentration, and can even result in vomiting. During the holiday season is when many of us are exposed to the risk of concussion through the increase of winter sport activity, such as hockey, skiing or curling, especially if protective gear isn’t worn.

So how may a chiropractor help to treat you in this scenario? Your chiropractor will check for potential neck injuries, and can administer the appropriate adjustments to help relieve neck and head pain. Rest will often be recommended as well, as many injuries will need time to heal.

Vision

During the holidays, many of us use our downtime to catch up on those binge worthy series and movies, but staring at screens for too long can result in headaches that you feel around your forehead, or pressure behind your eyes. Along with that, potential neck tension can be caused by the position of your screen, looking down at a cell phone or working at a computer, for instance, which can also result in headaches.

A chiropractor might help by adjusting the upper cervical vertebrae in order to relieve some pain caused by eye strain. And a common piece of advice when working on screens is to follow the 20/20/20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.

Change in Sleep Routine

We’ve all heard about the importance of sleep for establishing and maintaining our health. Sleep is the only time our minds and bodies fully relax and repair themselves. However, during the holidays we may often spend more time with family and friends, out at events, and less time sleeping. And by now you know what this can lead to. That’s right: Headaches! Sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are the typical culprits when it comes to migraines because they reduce the REM (rapid eye movement) phase of the sleep cycle which really helps us feel rested.

If you suffer from sleep challenges, a chiropractor may recommend simple lifestyle suggestions such as: Going to bed at a consistent time every night; Turning off bright lights and reducing screen time at least one hour before bed; And using blackout curtains or sleep masks to block out as much light as possible.

Have you been suffering from headaches, migraines, or any other pains during this holiday season?

If so, please reach out to Dr. Lanoue today. We are happy to discuss your situation and create the best solution that may help get you back to your optimum health.

Contact Dr. Lanoue