Headaches and Forward Head Posture Explained By Dr. Tim Harcourt of Coast Chiropractic Centers
Nov 18, 2021 -- Posted by :The head is a large and heavy part of a person. In a child, the head can account for a quarter of their total weight. In the adult, the head weighs 10-14 pounds (about 4.5-6.3 kg), and this load has to be balanced by the strength of the neck muscles. In normal upright posture, there is a forward curve to the neck, and this curve provides the perfect balance between strength and mobility. Unfortunately, this curve can be disrupted by whiplash and other traumas that damage the delicate ligaments and disks.
When a person bends their head forward to read or type, the neck begins to straighten and the weight of the head must be countered by the pull of the muscles at the back of the neck. If the person does this all day—because they work at a computer, for example—then the muscles never get a break. Knots, tightness, or spasm of the muscles will increase and cause a neck ache. The person may feel a tightness or pain around the head because the muscles pull at the base of the skull. These are the symptoms of what is called a tension-type headache.
Usually, the shoulder muscles are also involved and tight. Over time this forward head posture can become more permanent and a “round back” may also develop. In addition to contributing to a bad appearance, poor posture causes the spinal cord and nerves to become stretched and painful. Poor posture may also cause the spine to prematurely deteriorate, called degeneration, which results in thin disks. Forward head posture and abnormal cervical curvature can be diagnosed by x-ray and by observing the patient from the side.
Although over-the-counter and prescription medication may block the pain and provide temporary relief, they don’t necessarily address the cause of a patient’s pain and long-term use may be associated with unwanted side effects.
There are other causes for tension-type headaches and the ‘heavy” feeling of the head. Certain rare diseases and high blood pressure can also make the head hurt. This is why it is important to have the cause of your problem properly diagnosed. If the cause is musculoskeletal in nature, your doctor of chiropractic may use a combination of spinal manipulation, mobilization, exercises, workspace modifications, and even dietary recommendations to reduce pain and improve function so that you can carry out your everyday work and life responsibilities. However, if a more serious cause is suspected, then your chiropractor may refer you to a specialist for further testing.
So, if you are experiencing headaches and type in pain management near me, you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up.
You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my brain or neck.” Also, if you feel arm pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your neck. Some people have a feeling of their “head aching.”
What type of headache is it to include tension headaches, cluster headaches, migraine headaches, sinus headaches, or toxic headaches?
Regardless of the type, it can leave you feeling exhausted fatigued, nauseous, and even depressed. Some get severe pain behind the eyes. Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional.
Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment.
At Coast Chiropractic Centers we look forward to providing relief to those suffering from any type of headache. Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment.
If you are suffering from headaches that are affecting your quality of life and allowing you to enjoy Fort Myers Beach. Come see us at Coast Chiropractic Centers located on 7270 College Parkway.
Don't let headaches stop you from enjoying the beautiful SWFL! Dr. Dr. Tim Harcourt is here to give you the relief you need.