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Headache Specialist

American Chiropractic A.J. Hunziker, D.C. Our Services Headache
A.J. Hunziker, D.C. - - Chiropractor

American Chiropractic

A.J. Hunziker, D.C.

Chiropractor & Rehabilitation Specialist serving the areas of Jacksonville, FL & Jacksonville Beach, FL

Headaches are one of the most common health issues around the world. A “pain in the brain” is no laughing matter. Chronic tension or migraine headaches can interfere with or bring job and daily responsibilities to a hard stop. Often, physicians prescribe only drugs to deal with headaches. Dr. A.J. Hunziker, owner of American Chiropractic, conveniently located in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, Florida, specializes in drug-free treatments for tension and migraine headaches. Call our office or use our convenient online booking tool to schedule your appointment today.

Headache Q & A

What is the difference between a secondary or cervicogenic headache, a tension headache, and a migraine headache?

Cervicogenic, or secondary headaches, cause misalignment of the spine or jaw joint, which damages nerves in the spine and produce pain in your head. This process can also cause chemical changes in the brain and can be a factor in migraines. These ‘secondary’ headaches get their name because they result from another physical issue: bone misalignment and sometimes nerve damage.

Tension headaches can be chronic (more than 15 days a month) or episodic (fewer than 15 days a month). They can result in irritability, lost sleep, fatigue, and difficulty in concentrating.

Migraine headaches can also be chronic and debilitating. Characteristics of migraines include

  • Throbbing pain, often severe
  • Increased pain when exposed to light or noise
  • Blurred vision
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling very cold or very hot
  • Dizziness
  • Seeing flashing lights, dots, or shadows (called an aura)

What causes headaches?

Tension headaches can result from stress or anxiety. Genetics may also be a factor.

Migraine headaches have a genetic component and can also result from changes in brain chemistry or abnormal brain activity. Misalignment of the spine or jaw joint, which damages nerves in the spine, can be a factor.

Common migraine triggers include severe stress, poor sleep patterns, excess caffeine, or even red wine. Hormonal changes can also cause migraines.

What is the chiropractic treatment for headaches?

Instead of prescribing drugs, Dr. Hunziker performs spinal adjustments that correct bone misalignment. Many migraine symptoms and other headache symptoms vanish when your spine is in proper alignment and does not impinge on surrounding nerves. He also provides nutritional and dietary counseling to help you reduce the severity of your headaches.

What can I do to prevent headaches?

Keep a diary that tracks your headaches. Log what did you do as well as what you ate and drank for the last 24-36 hours before your headache began. The diary can reveal headache triggers. Here are tips to help you reduce the number and severity of your migraines:

  • Food awareness. Caffeine, alcohol, nitrates, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and skipping meals are common triggers; so is obesity.
  • Stress reduction. Mindfulness techniques, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and support groups can be helpful.
  • Exercise helps manage anxiety and stress.
  • Medication overuse. Some migraine drugs may cause headaches if you use them too often.
  • If you start throwing up or begin to lose your sight, seek treatment right away.

We offer treatment for auto-accidents, neck pain and back pain. Call us to book your appointment today.

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