Posture & Headaches

Dr. William Morgan explains that 15-20% of headaches are caused by dysfunction in the neck, which can put pressure on the three nerves that innervate the head, resulting in cervicogenic headaches¹. The posture of the neck is also important. Normally, there is a forward curve of the neck, which keeps the head back over the shoulders. With a slouched posture, the head is in a more forward position and the body reacts by contracting the muscles at the back of the neck and shoulders. This constant pull of the muscles can cause pain at the base of the skull, possibly resulting in headaches¹.

Spinal problems away from the neck can also cause shifts in posture that can provoke a headache. Doctors of chiropractic take a full-spine approach to care because even shifts in posture at the hips can have profound effects higher up in the body. This is why your doctor may carefully examine your entire spine if you complain of headaches, and not just focus on your head or neck¹.

In some patients, there may be an asymmetry of the leg lengths. This can cause a shift of the pelvis and tilting, which will then need to be compensated from above. This can occur at the upper neck, because the body will usually try to keep your head on straight and your eyes level¹.

In addition to chiropractic adjustments in the neck, a patient may need a vertebra tilt corrected in the lower spine. In some patients with a short leg, a heel lift in the shoe is enough to give the added stability to the spine¹.

If you are experiencing headaches, it is important to seek professional help. Morgan Chiropractic can help you with your headache problems. Schedule an appointment with us today to get started on your journey to a pain-free life