Headaches are common after a car accident. In fact, 90% of people involved in auto accidents report headaches after a crash. You may call a chiropractor for back pain, but they can also help with headaches, particularly after an accident. At SoCal Spinal Decompression Center, Lee Chiropractic, Inc. in Los Angeles, CA, we offer headache treatment.
request an appointmentTypes of Headache after Car Accidents
One of the main headache causes is trauma. Headaches after a car accident are known as secondary headaches because they are triggered by trauma, rather than an issue within the head itself.
There are several types of headaches that can occur after a car accident. The good news is, the most common types can be treated with chiropractic care.
Headache symptoms after a car accident often include neck pain, stiffness, and head pain. You may also experience nausea or sensitivity to light.
Cervicogenic Headaches
These headaches, also known as whiplash headaches, are the most common type after a car accident. Cervicogenic means “originating in the neck.” This means that a problem with your neck initially triggers the pain.
An accident causes severe and sudden force to the neck. This can result in whiplash, which is an injury to the neck. This irritates the nerves within the neck, which leads to headaches.
Misalignment Headaches
Headaches can also be triggered by misalignment in your spine or cervical spine, which supports your neck. This misalignment causes the muscles in your neck to be very tight.
This can lead to tension headaches. Tension headaches are caused by tight muscles, or tension, in the neck and shoulders.
Other Types of Headaches
Other types of headaches can occur after an accident. These include traumatic brain injury and fracture headaches.
Chiropractic Treatment for Headaches
Without treatment, you may develop chronic headaches. The beginning of chiropractic treatment for headaches is a physical exam and diagnosis. Your chiropractor will determine the cause of your headaches and then develop a treatment plan.
Manual Adjustment
Spinal adjustment is the core of chiropractic care. It realigns your spine and neck, allowing your body to function properly and in balance.
Decompression
Decompression is a gentle technique that relieves pressure on the spine. After a car accident, the spine or cervical spine can become compressed. This can cause bulging discs, back pain, and headaches.
Decompression treatment begins with a decompression consultation. If your chiropractor determines you are a candidate for treatment, you’ll lay on a decompression table as part of your treatment.
Headache Treatment from SoCal Spinal Decompression Center, Lee Chiropractic, Inc.
If you are experiencing headaches after an auto accident in Los Angeles, CA, contact us at SoCal Spinal Decompression Center, Lee Chiropractic, Inc. at (323) 375-5147. We offer the treatments you need to feel better fast.