How Chiropractic May Help a Stubborn Headache
By Dr. Thomas Williams
One of the most common conditions that we see people begin care for is headaches. Often the type of headaches that keep coming back or haven’t improved with other types of care.
Here is an outline of the most common types of headaches we see:
- Cervicogenic Headaches: caused by issues related to tension or stiffness in the neck (cervical spine). They normally come with or after pain or tension in the neck and feel particularly sore in the muscles in the top of the neck with the headache low in the base of the skull.
- Tension Headaches: some overlap with cervicogenic headaches and these may still involve the muscles of the neck, but can also be caused by stress and poor posture – normally people report these headaches feeling like a band across the top of the head.
- Migraine Headaches: Migraine is one of the most severe forms of headache, usually just on one side of the head but with other symptoms like visual change, nausea, sensitivity to light or sound.
With chiropractic care, the goal is always to address the root cause of a headache, whether that is tension in the muscles of the neck, eye strain from using a computer, poor posture, or one of the many triggers for migraine. Once we can identify what is causing the headaches, we can work on resolving the underlying issues that are causing them in the first place. For a lucky few, that can be as simple as changing the setup of their home office or the position of their car seat. For others we will need to use spinal adjustment, muscle release and stretches to restore the mobility of the neck after an injury or use specific exercises to help the body and nervous system retrain the posture to remove any postural overload.
For me, headaches have always been an area of special interest and I can personally attest to how much chiropractic care can help people suffering with headache. I have been getting headaches for as long as I can remember and was first diagnosed with migraine at about 15 by one of my first chiropractors (who was later one of my teachers). It’s what inspired me to become a chiropractor in the first place.
If you or someone you know is suffering with headaches, give us a call on (07) 4181 1464 or book a consult online as we’d love to help.
The Experience of Visiting a Chiropractor
By Dr Ben Appleyard
Visiting a chiropractor can be a transformative experience for those seeking care for their spinal health. Many people first step into a chiropractic office with a mix of curiosity and apprehension so we thought we’d demystify the process for those that might not already be aware. This is the perfect information to share with family members or friends who might still be considering chiropractic and haven’t made the leap yet.
The ambiance is typically calming with soft music and a welcoming staff that immediately sets the tone for relaxation. Upon arrival, a thorough assessment begins. The chiropractor usually asks detailed questions about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific issues you’re facing. This dialogue helps tailor the care to your individual needs. Following the initial consultation, a physical examination may take place. The chiropractor often checks your posture, spinal alignment and range of motion, providing insight into your overall health.
Once the overall assessment is complete, the chiropractor discusses their findings and explains the proposed care plan. Many patients are surprised to learn that chiropractic care extends beyond just spinal adjustments – it can also include exercises, lifestyle advice and nutritional guidance aimed at holistic wellness.
The adjustment itself is often the highlight of the visit. The adjustment process is gentle yet precise, with the chiropractor using their hands or specialized instruments to realign the spine and joints. While some may feel a bit of discomfort, most report immediate relief following the session. The characteristic “cracking” sound can be startling but is usually harmless, often signifying that gas bubbles are being released from the joints.
Post-adjustment, patients often feel a sense of lightness and increased mobility. Chiropractors may recommend follow-up visits or at-home exercises to reinforce the benefits. For many, regular chiropractic visits become a key part of maintaining overall health and wellbeing, emphasising the importance of proactive self-care in today’s fast-paced world.
We encourage you to share the gift of chiropractic with loved ones or members in your community who might benefit from a natural health approach to their wellbeing.
3 Ways to Fit Mini Digital Detoxes into Your Day
Take regular breaks from digital devices. This can boost focus, lower stress, and improve well-being. Try these three easy methods for daily digital detoxes:
Start your day tech-free: Don’t check your phone or email right away. Start your day calmly with mindfulness, writing, stretching, or meditating instead.
Schedule tech-free breaks: Set reminders to take regular breaks from your screens throughout the day.
Create tech-free zones: Designate specific areas in your home or workplace as tech-free zones. This could be your bedroom, dining area, or a cozy corner where you can retreat for a digital detox.
By incorporating these mini digital detoxes into your daily routine, you’ll cultivate a healthier relationship with technology and experience the benefits of increased focus, reduced stress, and improved overall well-being.
Does a Power Nap Work?
In our fast-paced world, many people struggle with fatigue. As a result, power naps have gained popularity as a potential solution. But do these short sleeps actually provide a boost?
Research suggests that a well-timed power nap can indeed enhance alertness, cognitive performance, and mood. However, the benefits depend on two crucial factors: duration and timing.
The key to an effective power nap lies in its duration. Experts recommend limiting naps to 10-20 minutes. This short timeframe allows you to reap the benefits without falling into deeper sleep stages.
Longer naps can lead to sleep inertia, where you wake up feeling groggy and disoriented, often worse than before the nap.
Timing is equally important. The ideal window for a power nap is in the mid-afternoon, around 2-3 PM. This aligns with the body’s natural dip in circadian rhythms.
When used correctly, power naps can be a valuable tool!
Are There Downsides to Intermittent Fasting?
Intermittent fasting is popular for weight loss and health. But it has downsides. You might lack nutrients if your eating window is too short or you choose unhealthy foods. Some people may feel tired, irritable, or get headaches, especially at first.
For those with a history of disordered eating, intermittent fasting can potentially trigger unhealthy behaviors or thought patterns.
Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with certain medical conditions should exercise caution or avoid intermittent fasting altogether due to increased nutritional needs.
While intermittent fasting may be beneficial for many, it’s crucial to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients during the eating periods. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable before starting any new dietary plan.