Headaches from the neck (cervicogenic headache) start in the neck or upper back, for example due to a stiff upper neck vertebra; they often do not respond well to painkillers. Tension headaches are often linked to tense neck and shoulder muscles.
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How we tackle headaches
Our approach: first find out what type of headache you have. Headache from the neck? Then chiropractic care can help; that is where most research has been done. Migraine? That is a condition of the brain and nerves, and your GP or neurologist remains the first point of contact. If the neck plays a part, chiropractic care can help some people. The doctor can also discuss vitamin infusions (Dordrecht, on Thursdays also Rotterdam); the evidence for them in migraine is small.
The musician's consultation hour is a specialty for musicians — they often have tension in the neck and jaw from playing for long periods of time.
Your recovery journey
Every course of treatment is tailored, but this is what a typical course looks like — from the first intake to recovery; how quickly that goes differs from person to person. You are not tied to anything and always know where you stand.
Triggers & analysis
We map your headache pattern: frequency, triggers, location. Examine upper cervical vertebrae (C0-C2) and jaw muscles.
First corrections
Gentle chiropractic of the upper neck vertebrae and massage of tense muscles, with a vitamin injection by the doctor if needed. In some people the attacks become less frequent.
Frequency reduction
We provide advice on sleeping position and dealing with stress, and ask you to keep a migraine diary. This way you can help us see what helps.
Then
You are not tied to anything: you only come back if it makes sense. Some patients then have fewer or milder attacks; others notice little difference.
How the investigation is going
While sitting, we examine the mobility of your neck and feel the joints high in the neck. If treatment high in the neck appears to be useful, we will ask your permission for this separately.
Where you are treated
Examination and chiropractic care take place at our practice in Rotterdam. Infusions are given by the doctors of our practice: vitamin infusions in Dordrecht and on Thursdays also in Rotterdam. If a treatment in Dordrecht suits your condition better, we will discuss this with you.
Frequently asked questions
Does chiropractic help with migraines?
Research is limited. If the neck plays a role in the attacks, it can help some people, but it does not replace treatment by your GP or neurologist.
How many times a month do migraine attacks usually return?
Highly variable — from once a year to daily. Treatment focuses on frequency and intensity reduction.
Do vitamin injections work for headaches?
Magnesium and vitamin B2 (riboflavin) have an evidence base for migraine prophylaxis.
Should I Avoid Triggers?
Sleep deprivation, alcohol, MSG, caffeine withdrawal and stress are common triggers — journaling helps.
What is the golden tip against migraine?
It does not exist — anyone who promises you one is selling something. What helps most is regularity: sleeping and eating at set times, drinking enough, and moving. And watch your painkillers: if you use them more than ten to fifteen days a month, they can start causing headaches themselves. Keep track for a few weeks of when an attack comes and what preceded it; that yields more than any single tip.
Are headaches psychological?
Stress can trigger headaches, but the pain itself is physical and treatable.
Sources
Independent information from Thuisarts.nl, the patient website of the Dutch College of General Practitioners (in Dutch).
