Can Chiropractic Treatment Reduce Medication Overuse Headache in Adults With Tension-Type Headache?
- Julian Simpson
- Sep 15
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Can Chiropractic Treatment Reduce Medication Overuse Headache in Adults With Tension-Type Headache?
Tension-type headache (TTH) is recognised as the most prevalent form of headache experienced by individuals worldwide, with a staggering global prevalence rate estimated at approximately 26%. This indicates that a significant portion of the population suffers from this condition at some point in their lives, making it a major public health concern.
What are the signs you might have tension headaches?
One of the hallmark symptoms of tension-type headaches is bilateral pressing, which refers to a sensation of pressure or tightness that affects both sides of the head simultaneously. This discomfort can often be described as feeling like a tight band is wrapped around the head.
Additionally, individuals may experience tightening head pain that can vary in intensity, often described as mild to moderate, and is typically not aggravated by routine physical activity. This type of pain can persist for hours or even days, significantly impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.
Furthermore, it is noteworthy that tension-type headaches frequently co-occur with neck pain in nearly 90% of patients. This association suggests that muscle tension in the neck and shoulders may play a critical role in the development and exacerbation of headache symptoms.
What are the medications for Tension Headaches?
When it comes to pharmacological management, the first-line medications for tension-type headaches typically include common over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen and aspirin. These medications are often effective in alleviating mild to moderate headache pain and are widely accessible.
On the other hand, Butalbital, which is classified as a barbiturate and sedative/hypnotic medication, is considered a second-line therapy for those who do not respond adequately to first-line treatments. However, it is essential to note that the use of Butalbital carries significant risks, including cognitive impairment, the potential for dependence or addiction, and the possibility of headache chronification, where headaches become more frequent and severe over time.
Commonly prescribed butalbital-containing medications used for headache relief often include caffeine, which is known to enhance the analgesic effects of pain relievers, along with either acetaminophen or aspirin. These combinations aim to provide more comprehensive relief for individuals suffering from tension-type headaches.
What Chiropractors do to help alleviate Headaches
Numerous research articles indicate that patients who receive chiropractic care typically undergo a treatment regimen lasting about 2 months, consisting of 14 to 16 sessions of chiropractic adjustments and therapies aimed at alleviating headache symptoms.
Additionally, massage therapy targeting tight muscles in the neck and shoulders is often employed as a complementary approach to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow, which can further decrease headache frequency and intensity.
Stretching exercises are also an integral part of chiropractic care, as they help to enhance flexibility, reduce muscle tightness, and promote relaxation, all of which can contribute to alleviating headache symptoms.
Chiropractic adjustments, which involve manual manipulation of the spine and other joints, aim to restore proper alignment and function, potentially reducing the occurrence and severity of tension-type headaches.
Innovative treatments such as shockwave therapy may also be utilized in chiropractic practice to address muscular pain and promote healing through the application of acoustic waves.
Dry needling is another technique that may be employed to target trigger points within muscles, helping to release tension and alleviate headache pain.
Lastly, cupping therapy, which involves creating suction on the skin to enhance blood flow and relieve muscle tightness, has gained popularity as a method to complement traditional chiropractic care for headaches.
Research released in 2024 investigated the long-term outcomes of participants who either received chiropractic care or conventional medication for tension-type headaches. The findings revealed that patients who underwent chiropractic treatment demonstrated a significantly reduced likelihood of being prescribed butalbital, suggesting that chiropractic care may offer a viable alternative for individuals seeking effective headache management without the associated risks of medication dependence.
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