Headaches, especially cervicogenic
headaches (CGH), are often rooted in musculoskeletal dysfunction in
the neck. For sufferers wanting lasting
relief, chiropractic care has long been a trusted means to that
end. A growing body of evidence purports
that blending targeted exercise into a McHenry
chiropractic treatment plan can significantly boost its
effectiveness—especially when it comes to managing chronic
headache pain. OrthoIllinois Chiropractic is equipped to help!
HEADACHE’S RESPONSE TO EXERCISE
A recent randomized controlled trial looked at
this very relationship. Published in The Journal
of Headache and Pain, the effects of neck-specific exercises and
health promotion on office workers suffering with
headaches was positive. The findings disclosed
that participants who engaged in targeted neck exercises reported
significant decreases in headache frequency and intensity. This
suggests that exercise, when combined with
chiropractic care, can enhance treatment outcomes for
headache sufferers. (1)
HEADACHE RESPONSE TO EXERCISE AND CHIROPRACTIC CARE
These findings line up with
broader clinical insights showing that manual therapies—such
as spinal manipulation and mobilization used here at
OrthoIllinois Chiropractic—are most effective when combined with active
interventions like exercise. Chiropractic adjustments restore
joint motion and lower tension in the cervical spine, while
exercise helps stabilize the
musculature, boost posture, and increase resilience
against future flare-ups. A systematic review in Chiropractic & Manual
Therapies highlighted the efficacy of manual therapies, such
as spinal manipulation and mobilization, in managing cervicogenic
headaches. The review found moderate-to-large positive outcomes
in lowering headache intensity and frequency, especially
when combined with exercise interventions. This combination
approach seems to offer a comprehensive solution
for managing CGHs. (2)
HEADACHE EXERCISE
What exercises may help most? Deep neck flexor
strengthening, scapular stabilization, and postural training have been documented
to not only decrease headache symptoms but also decrease
the need for medication and enhance quality of life. The combined
effort of chiropractic adjustments and exercise gives
back some control to patients by addressing
both the root biomechanical issues and the lifestyle factors adding
to their pain. Moreover, regular movement supports better
circulation, reduces stress—a known headache trigger—and supports
long-term neuromuscular health. Chiropractors like yours at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic are
uniquely positioned to design individualized
exercise regimens that align with
spinal care goals and each patient’s precise needs.
CONTACT OrthoIllinois Chiropractic
Incorporating exercise into your chiropractic
care routine is not just an add-on; it’s a vital
step toward sustainable headache management. Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. David Kulla on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he
shares relieving treatment of headache and neck pain using The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.
Make your McHenry chiropractic
appointment now.
