Integrating Exercise into Sitka Chiropractic Care for Effective Headache Management
Headaches, particularly cervicogenic headaches (CGH), are often rooted in musculoskeletal dysfunction in the neck. For sufferers wanting long-lasting relief, chiropractic care has long been a reliable approach. A growing body of evidence purports that integrating targeted exercise into a Sitka chiropractic treatment plan can significantly enhance its effectiveness—especially when it comes to managing chronic headache pain. Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka is equipped to help!
HEADACHE’S RESPONSE TO EXERCISE
A recent randomized controlled trial looked at this very association. Published in The Journal of Headache and Pain, the effects of neck-specific exercises and health promotion on office workers dealing with headaches was beneficial. The findings revealed that participants who performed targeted neck exercises noted significant decreases in headache frequency and intensity. This indicates that exercise, when combined with chiropractic care, can boost treatment outcomes for headache sufferers. (1)
HEADACHE RESPONSE TO EXERCISE AND CHIROPRACTIC CARE
These findings align with broader clinical insights showing that manual therapies—such as spinal manipulation and mobilization used here at Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka—are most effective when paired with active interventions like exercise. Chiropractic adjustments return joint motion and lower tension in the cervical spine, while exercise assists in stabilizing the musculature, boost posture, and amplify resilience against future flare-ups. A systematic review in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies highlighted the efficacy of manual therapies, such as spinal manipulation and mobilization, in managing cervicogenic headaches. The review found moderate-to-large positive outcomes in reducing headache intensity and frequency, particularly when blended with exercise interventions. This combination approach appears to offer a comprehensive solution for containing CGHs. (2)
HEADACHE EXERCISE
What exercises may help most? Deep neck flexor strengthening, scapular stabilization, and postural training have been documented to not only reduce headache symptoms but also decrease the need for medication and enhance quality of life. The combined effort of chiropractic adjustments and exercise gives back some control to patients by addressing both the root biomechanical issues and the lifestyle factors adding to their pain. Moreover, regular movement supports better circulation, lowers stress—a known headache trigger—and supports long-term neuromuscular health. Chiropractors like yours at Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka are uniquely positioned to prescribe individualized exercise regimens that align with spinal care goals and each patient’s specific needs.
CONTACT Arctic Chiropractic, Sitka
Incorporating exercise into your chiropractic care routine is not just an add-on; it’s a vital step toward sustainable headache management. Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. David Kulla on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he shares relieving treatment of headache and neck pain following the use of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.
