Chronic headaches can greatly reduce your quality of life. If you battle headaches every day, you know just how stressful they can be. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 47 percent of the global adult population have experienced one or more headaches in the last year. The WHO also reports that severe headache and migraine sufferers are three times more likely to experience depression than people who do not have chronic headaches. Clearly, that pain in your brain is not just "all in your head".

Although a small percentage of headaches are caused by environmental factors, such as food sensitivities, sinus problems, or allergies, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) estimates that 95 percent of headaches are tension, cluster, or migraines. if those are the types of headaches you tend to get, luckily, there are solutions for your pain. If you visit a chiropractor for headaches, there are several things he or she will do to ensure you will feel normal again. 

Initial Exam - The chiropractor will take x-rays and examine your body where she believes the pain originates. If necessary, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to start your treatment.

Adjustment - One of the first things you'll experience after the initial consultation at a chiropractor's office is manipulation of your spine to get it in alignment. The alignment will take pressure off the spine and the muscles in your neck, which will help to ease tension in the head. This may seem scary at first, as the chiropractor will put a lot of pressure on your spine, but it's worth it to get rid of your headaches. Plus, an alignment is usually followed up with a body massage, which will help ease the tension not just in your head, but also in the rest of your body.

Advice - Your chiropractor will give you tips and tricks to avoid getting headaches from poor posture and tension that affects your joints. In addition, he will give you suggestion for fortifying your body with proper nutrition or supplements. 

Follow-up - Weekly visits might be in order to keep your spine in place once it's adjusted. A healthy, aligned spine contributes to better overall health.

Don't hesitate to visit a chiropractor, like West Omaha Chiropractic & Sports Injury Clinic, for headaches. Once the spine and neck are in alignment, the nervous system will work better with less pressure — which amounts to less pain for you and fewer headaches.