Upper Cervical Care and the Treatment of Headaches and Migraines in Washington

Headaches are a common ailment experienced by millions of people every day, while migraines are a more severe and debilitating form of headache that can have a significant impact on quality of life. Although medical doctors prescribe over-the-counter and prescription medications to alleviate the symptoms, they often fail to address the underlying cause. One solution that is gaining popularity is upper cervical care, which seeks to address the root cause of headaches and migraines in Washington.

What is the Difference in Washington?

Headaches are pain or discomfort felt in the head, scalp, or neck, while migraines are severe headaches accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. Migraines can last for several hours or days, and some people experience them multiple times a month.

How is the Trigeminal Nucleus Responsible for Migraines?

The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in the face and head, and the trigeminal nucleus is the brainstem nucleus that receives sensory information from the trigeminal nerve. Recent research suggests that the trigeminal nucleus plays a crucial role in migraines, and its activation leads to the development of migraine symptoms.

How Upper Cervical Misalignment Can Irritate the Trigeminal Nucleus?

The upper cervical spine, which refers to the two vertebrae (C1 and C2) located at the top of the spine, plays a crucial role in the body's overall health and function. Misalignment of these vertebrae, known as subluxation, can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, resulting in a variety of symptoms.

When subluxation occurs in the upper cervical spine, it can irritate the trigeminal nucleus and cause it to become hyperactive. This hyperactivity leads to the development of migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity.

How Upper Cervical Care Can Treat Headaches and Migraines

Upper cervical care seeks to correct subluxations in the upper cervical spine using gentle and precise adjustments. These adjustments aim to restore the natural alignment of the spine, remove pressure on the surrounding nerves, and promote healthy cerebrospinal fluid flow. By addressing the underlying cause of headaches and migraines, many patients experience significant relief from chronic and debilitating symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you or a loved one suffers from migraines or headaches, consider seeking the help of a trained upper cervical chiropractor. At Palisades Upper Cervical Chiropractic, we specialize in upper cervical care and strive to provide each patient with personalized care and attention. Our team of experienced doctors and caring staff is committed to helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness.

To learn more about how upper cervical care can help you find relief from migraines and headaches, contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

References:

1. Migraine. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201

2. Headache. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/headache/basics/causes/sym-20050800

3. Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care: A Review of the Literature. National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association. https://nucca.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/a_review_of_the_literature.pdf

4. Aguggia M, Saracco MG, Cavallini M, et al. The role of the trigeminal system in the pathophysiology of migraine: a review. Neurol Sci. 2021;42(4):1251-1260. doi:10.1007\/s10072-020-04825-2.