Did you know there are many types of headaches? There are cluster headaches, migraine headaches, sinus headaches, allergy headaches, fever headaches, hangover headaches, new daily persistent headaches, eyestrain headaches, depression headaches, hypertension headaches, menstrual headaches, post-traumatic headaches, and even tumor headaches and aneurysm headaches. They're all headaches. But they all stem from different sources and require different types of treatment. There is one type of headache that I'd venture to say is probably the most common type of headache, particularly in our brand new modern age of computers, cars, and smartphones. The Tension Headache. This particular headache results from overworked neck, shoulder, and head muscles that refer pain to the head, making it appear as though your head hurts even though it's the surrounding muscles that are troubled. The tension headache will feel like dull pain, not throbbing pain, that doesn't seem to go away until you rest or lay down for a good night's sleep. Many people try to relieve their tension headaches with acetaminophen or ibuprofen. The problem with this method is that because tension headaches tend to recur with resumption of certain habitual postures and/or activities, you'll need to take a lot of acetaminophen and ibuprofen over weeks and months. Unfortunately, it has been well-established that these over-the-counter medications may have dangerous side effects to the stomach, to the liver, and to the kidneys. Fortunately, chiropractic has a long track record of working wonders with tension headaches. A recent meta-analysis (that's when researchers research the research...) performed by the medical researchers at Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center looked into the treatment options for tension headache. It comes as no surprise that chiropractic adjustments were among the most effective treatments studied, particularly when neck pain/dysfunction was found in conjunction with the ongoing tension headaches: Cervical spinal manipulation was associated with improvement in headache outcomes in two trials involving patients with neck pain and/or neck dysfunction and headache. Manipulation appeared to result in immediate improvement in headache severity when used to treat episodes of cervicogenic headache when compared with an attention-placebo control. Furthermore,when compared to soft-tissue therapies (massage), a course of manipulation treatments resulted in sustained improvement in headache frequency and severity. When a chiropractor performs spinal adjustments along with postural modifications, ergonomic suggestions, ice packs, and other relaxation techniques, patients tend to see marvelous things happen.
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Everyone knows by now that the only basic road to health is a proper balance between diet and exercise, between food and activity. Good and proper food provides the fuel to perform activities. If activities are not performed (such as in a sedentary lifestyle) or if the food is not proper (such as a "low-fat diet" that is actually high in sugar or if the amount of food is excessive), then ill health can result. And everyone also knows that fast food tends to be unhealthy food, high in caloric intake and low in nutritional value. But did you know that restaurant food can also be unhealthy food? According to this recent study, national chain restaurants serve meals that are high in calories, fat, and salt. In fact, a single meal with dessert at these restaurants can nearly satisfy your entire daily caloric intake and far surpass your daily sodium recommended amount. It has been said that restaurant food is similar to homecooked food, except that restaurant food (to enhance the flavor) uses more butter, sugar, and salt. All of which can be unhealthy in immoderate amounts. If you have the time to purchase and cook your food for yourself, you can then limit how much fat, sugar, and salt you put into your body. You probably already know these food principles: Moderation is key. You don't have to avoid restaurants or fast food, but you should limit your intake of these foods. Don't eat out every day. Know your options. Order water with your food, not soda. Know where your food comes from. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits wherever possible. Learn to make and enjoy making your own food. Have a happy, healthy 2014! Last month's blog posts focused heavily (and unintentionally) on driving and chiropractic care. Although this is a new year, there's no reason to change topics when there are important news stories to share! Driving safety is at top of mind these days because of the dangerously snow-covered roads during the current record-breaking cold snap. Be safe on the roads, Peoria! And equally important is the new Illinois state law regarding cell phone use while driving. Remember that cell phone use is now banned for all drivers in Illinois regardless of age, unless you use a bluetooth headset, speaker phone, or other hands-free technology. Texting has already been illegal for all drivers in Illinois. It is vitally important to remain completely alert when at the wheel, in order to prevent car accidents and all the injuries that can result. Stay warm, stay safe, stay healthy! |
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DisclaimerUnless otherwise attributed, all content is written by Kyle Johnson, DC, of Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria.
All images used are under Creative Commons license. Although every effort has been made to provide an accurate description of our chiropractic care and its benefits, the information given on this website and blog is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, medical advice for any condition. If you have any questions regarding your condition, you should seek the help of Dr. Johnson in person, so that he may properly assess your condition. This blog is provided by Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria, S.C., proudly located in Peoria, IL. |