Since so many of the world’s adult population have experienced a headache at one point in their lives, we tend to think it’s no big deal. We through back a painkiller, take a nap, drink more water, massage our temples and keep moving. But here’s the thing—you don’t have to live like that.

The headache Myth Debunked
There are numerous different reasons why headaches happen: accidents, injuries, diet, dehydration, stress and poor posture—even texting or staring too long at a computer screen can contribute. Want to know the truth? Your problem isn’t actually a headache. Headaches are a symptom, meaning that the actual root cause of your pain is still there.
So, back to our original question: No! your headaches aren’t normal. In fact, they’re trying to tell you that something is wrong.

What’s Happening?
Many different types of headaches are tied into the musculoskeletal system—a result of injuries or wear and tear on the joints, muscles, tendons or nerves. In fact, research suggests that those with musculoskeletal abnormalities are more likely to develop headaches. As chiropractors, we are educated experts in the musculoskeletal system and we use the chiropractic adjustment to remove misalignments (subluxations) in the spine.

Often times when individuals suffer frequent or chronic headaches, it may be related to the C1, C2 and C3 vertebrae of the spine, located in the upper portion of the neck. While the malposition of these important bones may often be the root cause of headaches, muscles also play a big role in contributing to this dysfunction. Abnormally tense muscles, known as hypertonicity, or spasms and tight muscles, known as spasticity, are both linked to pulling vertebrae out of place. It is these muscle problems that can absolutely cause subluxations, which place pressure on the nerves and ultimately leading to a headache.