While I was looking for articles regarding headaches, I cam across this article in the Dynamic Chiropractic. I was intrigued by the connection of lower neck degeneration and headaches.
In 20 years of clinical practice, I have come to understand that significant mechanical stresses over time appear to primarily affect the mid to lower cervical spine. Lateral view x-rays readily show degeneration in these areas, though often the degenerative changes are passed over by medical radiologists as being "normal".
Many of the patients suffering from lower neck degeneration also experience neck related headaches. Typically they have tight shoulder and upper back muscles, tightness at the base of the skull, and pain at the base of the head. The pain can spread up and over the top of the head and even into the eyes.
The above article points out how when lower neck disc degeneration is present, it alters the mechanics of the upper neck region. This in turn can cause irritation of the sub-occipital nerve, resulting in headache pain. The author further points out that traction therapy to the damaged discs of the lower neck region causes a reactionary relaxation in the upper neck, reducing the tendency for headaches.
In my office, I have found this to be true. I employ the Triton DTS spinal decompression therapy whenever I encounter a patient with mid to lower neck disc degeneration with accompanying upper thoracic and cervical spine myofascitis. The traction has also been beneficial in reducing cervical/brachial syndrome.
Keith Biggs, DC
Biggs Chiropractic & Acupuncture
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment