[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Being able to think clearly and calmly allows us to make decisions, process emotions, and carry on with our day-to-day lives. That clarity can be easily destroyed with a strong headache. Many people have occasional headaches, but frequent headaches that affect your ability to sleep or get on with your day can be disabling.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Different types of headaches Common types of headaches are tension, migraine, and cervicogenic headaches. Tension-type headaches commonly present as band-like tension around the head, whereas migraine headaches usually result in pain on one side of the head and are commonly accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. With cervicogenic headaches, the neck is the source of the problem but the pain is perceived in one or more areas of the head and/or face. The causes of headaches are not always well understood but a family history of headaches, neck stiffness, and stress are common factors.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]How can chiropractors help with headaches? Chiropractors can assess, diagnose, and manage headaches. Current evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including manual therapy, can be effective in treating cervicogenic and tension headaches.1 Studies have also shown that chiropractic care can help decrease the intensity and frequency of migraines.1 The treatment options may include:

1. Manual therapy
2. Soft tissue therapy
3. Modalities including electrical stimulation, acupuncture, and ultrasound
4. Rehabilitation
5. Lifestyle changes and education
6. Referral and co-management

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]It’s important to take headaches seriously. Consider consulting a chiropractor if you often have headaches, if you frequently take a pain reliever for your headaches, if your headache pattern changes, or if your headaches are getting worse. Seek prompt attention if your headache is sudden and severe, follows a head injury, or is accompanied by fever, stiff neck, weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Need some other helpful tips to keep your head healthy? Try these posts: 4 techniques to help you manage stress How much screen time has a negative impact on your child’s development? Importance of sleep References 1Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, Marcoux H, Potter B, Ruegg R, Shaw L, Watkin R, White E. Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2011;34(5):274-89.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row disable_element=”yes”][vc_column offset=”vc_hidden-lg vc_hidden-md vc_hidden-sm vc_hidden-xs”][vc_column_text]There is no denying the tremendous burden of musculoskeletal conditions on the lives of Canadians. A staggering 11 million Canadians suffer from at least one musculoskeletal condition every year¹. Beyond the impact on the health and wellbeing of Canadians, musculoskeletal conditions are a major health issue that have a profound impact on Canada’s economic welfare. musculoskeletal conditions are responsible for one third of lost time and are one of the primary causes of short and long-term disability in Canada². Yet, even if they have an important impact on so many facets of our lives, musculoskeletal conditions receive very little attention. Patients often lack the necessary support and resources to manage their pain and symptoms, making it a challenge for many Canadians to lead a healthy lifestyle. Current guidelines supported by evidence suggest conservative care, like chiropractic, as first line treatment for conditions like back pain. Typically, Canadians may have access to chiropractic care through extended healthcare coverage provided as an employee benefit. However, for those who are unemployed or may not have access to extended healthcare, they may be required to pay out-of-pocket, thus creating an unnecessary barrier to proper treatment. Imagine if all Canadians had access to evidence-based, recommended care options for their musculoskeletal health? How would Canadians and Canada benefit as a whole? We know that early access to conservative care could not only reduce pain and improve function among those who suffer from musculoskeletal conditions, but have a meaningful impact on keeping Canadians working and productive. Canada would reap the rewards from ensuring that Canadians are healthy and that appropriate care is available when injured. There is more that we can do together to ensure that all Canadians have access to appropriate care options to help prevent or manage musculoskeletal conditions. It is also important to stay informed on Canada’s healthcare system and musculoskeletal health related matters. Want to join the conversation?:

1. Talk to your chiropractor about the importance of your musculoskeletal health
2. Learn more about current ongoing projects that aim to increase access to musculoskeletal care in Canada
3. Discuss musculoskeletal health with your friends and family

¹Building a Collective Policy Agenda for Musculoskeletal Health and Mobility; Canadian Orthopaedic Care Strategy Group backgrounder report. 2010. ²Desjardins, D. (2006). Le fardeau de la maladie lié aux troubles musculosquelettiques au Canada. Prévention l’incapacité au travail : un symposium pour favoriser l’action concertée. Journées annuelles de la santé publique. Retrieved from https://jasp.inspq.qc.ca/Data/Sites/1/SharedFiles/presentations/2006/JASP2006-Incapacite-SDesjardins2.PDF

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• Understanding chiropractic care through the lens of pain

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