Headache Relief in Olympia, WA
Tired of reaching for painkillers? Many headaches originate from neck tension and spinal dysfunction. Chiropractic care addresses these root causes naturally.
Headaches We Can Help
Not all headaches are the same. We focus on those with musculoskeletal origins.
Tension Headaches
The most common type — a dull, aching pain often described as a band around the head. Usually related to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders.
Highly responsive to chiropractic care
Cervicogenic Headaches
Headaches that originate from the neck. Pain often starts at the base of the skull and radiates to the forehead or behind the eyes.
Primary indication for chiropractic
Migraine (Supportive Care)
While migraines have complex triggers, reducing neck tension and improving spinal function can help reduce frequency and intensity for many patients.
Complementary treatment approach
The Neck-Headache Connection
Your upper cervical spine (top of the neck) has a direct neurological connection to your head. When vertebrae are misaligned or muscles are chronically tight, they can:
- Irritate nerves that refer pain to the head
- Restrict blood flow to the head and brain
- Create trigger points that cause referred head pain
- Alter posture, leading to chronic tension patterns
Our Treatment Approach
Identify the Source
Thorough exam to determine if your headaches have a cervical component.
Cervical Adjustments
Gentle, precise adjustments to restore proper neck alignment and mobility.
Muscle Work
Release trigger points in the suboccipitals, traps, and other headache-causing muscles.
Prevention
Posture guidance and exercises to reduce recurrence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headache Treatment
Can a chiropractor help with headaches?
Yes, especially for tension headaches and cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck). Research shows that chiropractic adjustments can reduce headache frequency and intensity. Many patients find significant relief when neck alignment and muscle tension are addressed.
How do I know if my headaches are coming from my neck?
Signs that your headaches may have a cervical origin include: pain starting at the base of your skull, headaches triggered by neck movement or sustained positions, neck stiffness accompanying your headaches, or pain that radiates from back to front. Dr. Vince can perform specific tests during your exam to determine if your neck is contributing to your headaches.
Can chiropractic help with migraines?
While migraines have multiple triggers, many migraine sufferers find that chiropractic care helps reduce the frequency and severity of their episodes. Addressing neck tension and spinal alignment can be part of a comprehensive migraine management approach. Results vary by individual, but it's worth exploring if other treatments haven't provided full relief.
How many visits does it take to see improvement in headaches?
Many patients notice improvement in headache frequency or intensity within 2-4 visits. Chronic headache sufferers may need several weeks of care to see lasting change. We'll track your progress and adjust treatment as needed. Our goal is to reduce your headaches to the point where you only need occasional maintenance care.
Break the Headache Cycle
Schedule your consultation and find out if chiropractic can help your headaches.