Headache Advice from Ann Arbor Chiropractor and Ypsilanti Chiropractor

The population in Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor are no strangers to headaches. Pretty much everyone at some point in their life has experienced at least one headache. Our more common headaches don’t require much intervention from us. Maybe a couple ibuprofen and a nap. But sometimes you have a long lasting nagging headache that really impacts your daily life. When this happens, it's important to talk to a medical professional. Thankfully your Ann Arbor chiropractor and Ypsilanti chiropractor has some advice for homecare. 

What Causes Headache Pain?

There are many different kind of headaches that have many different triggers. It is important to speak to a medical professional about any new or worsening headaches to rule out any other issue first. Headaches can also be caused by various lifestyle factors. Lifestyle factors can range from head and neck position while working on a computer, strong smells, stress, poor hydration, toxin exposure, and bright or intense light. In most cases, headaches are not caused by underlying health issues. More often than not, they are caused by muscular tension in the neck and upper back. That is probably no surprise with your computer based lifestyles and stressful jobs.  If this is the case for you, home care and chiropractic care are excellent remedies for your headaches. 

Selfcare for Headaches

Since most headaches are caused by muscular tension, homecare can be a very effective means of decreasing headache frequency and pain. If you work at a computer, it is vitally important that you have a proper ergonomic setup. The middle of your computer should be eye level. Your arms are at a 90 degree angle resting on the table. This will often require a bluetooth keyboard and a monitor stand. 

Taking movement breaks is essential. You can even set an alarm. Ideally you want to use the 20/20/20 rule. Meaning you want to get up every twenty minutes for 20 seconds and look at something 20 feet away. At this time you should walk around and stretch your neck in all directions. 

Stress is another key player in headaches. Try a systematic muscle relaxation exercise where you spend 5 minutes releasing muscle tension in every part of your body. Adequate sleep, food, and hydration are essential to prevent headaches. Hydration is often stressed in our society however it is rare that people are dehydrated. However, if you have been working for long periods without drinking water or have been working outside in the heat, it is essential that you make sure you are hydrated. 

Your Chiropractor Can Help

If you continue to get headaches or if your headache continues and you have followed the advice of your medical professional,  please make an appointment with your Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti chiropractor. Collective Culture Health & Chiropractic would love to help you with your pain. Spinal adjustments along with soft tissue therapy can work wonders for your headache. Call us to make an appointment today.