If you regularly experience headaches and migraines, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause. At Pittsburgh Spine and Injury Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, experienced chiropractor and rehabilitation specialist Robert Moore, DC, CICE, specializes in diagnosing and treating headaches and migraines. Dr. Moore takes a drug-free approach to pain management that emphasizes manual therapies and healthy lifestyle changes. Call Pittsburgh Spine and Injury Center to request a headache or migraine consultation today or book online.
HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES Q&A
What are headaches and migraines?
Headaches and migraines are two common and painful conditions. Though frequently mentioned together, headaches and migraines aren’t the same.
Headaches
A headache refers to a throbbing, stabbing, or aching sensation in your forehead, face, or skull. Everyone gets headaches occasionally, and they typically respond to at-home treatments, like drinking water or taking a nap.
Migraines
A migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense and throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraines are more severe than regular headaches. They can last for hours or even days and trigger other symptoms, like nausea and sensitivity to light.
What are the symptoms of headaches and migraines?
Symptoms of headaches and migraines include:
- Dull or throbbing pain in your forehead, shoulders, or neck
- Pain that slowly worsens
- Pain that feels like a vice or a band around your head
- Pins and needles sensations
- Visual phenomena, like bright spots or flashes of light
You might also feel lightheaded or dizzy, depending on the severity and frequency of your headaches or migraine attacks.
How are headaches and migraines diagnosed?
To diagnose headaches and migraines, Dr. Moore reviews your medical charts and asks about your symptoms, including what your headaches feel like, how long they last, and how often they occur. He also asks about your lifestyle, including how often you drink alcohol and if you feel stressed out or anxious.
Next, Dr. Moore completes a physical and a neurological exam. During the exam, he checks for signs and symptoms of an underlying illness, like balance problems, muscle weakness, or excessive fatigue.
He also orders diagnostic imaging, like an MRI, to capture detailed images of your brain. There isn’t an MRI machine onsite, so Dr. Moore refers you to a nearby imaging facility.
How are headaches and migraines treated?
Treatment of headaches and migraines depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms. At Pittsburgh Spine and Injury Center, Dr. Moore takes a conservative and drug-free approach to treatment. He might recommend:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Therapeutic massage
- Shockwave therapy
- Physical therapy
- Stress management techniques, like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
- Eating a more balanced and nutritious diet
- Staying hydrated
- Exercising regularly
- Spinal decompression (traction therapy)
Dr. Moore monitors your progress over the course of treatment and makes adjustments as necessary.
Call Pittsburgh Spine and Injury Center to receive treatment for headaches and migraines today, or book online.