One or a number of problems may co-exist; so it is often best to consider all potential triggers/causes for the individual's headaches &/or migraines and address them simultaneously.
This may involve combining the expertise of a number of experts to address:
e.g. Poor dietary habits + Neck stiffness + Problems with the jaw + Poor postural habits
e.g. Eye strain + Stress + Muscle tension
e.g. Sinus problems + Food triggers + Neck stiffness etc
These are common scenarios in many modern day lifestyles and occupations; which commonly involve prolonged repetitive tasks, stress, and poor dietary habits.
Consequently, an approach which addresses all of these factors will minimise irritation to the pain sensitive structures around the head and neck, and render the individual less susceptible to an attack of head-pain. It should be noted that this approach is an approach which has an excellent success rate once the more serious causes have been ruled out by an appropriate examination and diagnosis by an expert. This is why it may often be necessary to involve the expertise of a number of professionals (ie Chiropractors, Neurologists, Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, Orthodontists, E.N.T Specialists, General Practioners e.t.c) and pool any test results, feedback, and progress updates.
Treatment in such cases should be co-ordinated by practitioners who understand the need for a multi-pronged approach; and enlist the services of other professions who can contribute to the rehabilitation process. In many cases, patients have been suffering for a long time before they seek help, and it is necessary to address the causes of their problems with a program of therapy and advice, so there is no quick fix; this is what is meant by the term 'rehabilitation'.
For example, a common scenario would involve someone who has a history of headaches since childhood, and has a more recent history of a motor vehicle accident, with subsequent worsening of their headaches since. A case such as this clearly demonstrates a need to address the long term causes of the patients problems (ie: serious problems, dietary habits, hormones, posture, allergies, eyes, e.t.c); as well as the possible consequences of the motor vehicle accident (ie: neck, jaw, brain damage/head trauma e.t.c).
Consequently this patient may need the help of a number of health professionals (to address the individual causes); and possibly for a medium to long term trial of therapy.
A Combined approach may also help patients who have had various forms of treatment- with little success. Often these patients have had only one facet of their problems addressed, and the headaches / migraines continue due to the other causes being largely un-addressed.
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For other localities consult your family doctor or e-mail JEROMEDIXON@bigpond.com
Author:
Jerome Dixon has studied a Science degree majoring in Biochemistry at LaTrobe University in Melbourne Australia, as well as a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chiropractic at R.M.I.T University in Melbourne Australia.
Undergraduate studies have also been undertaken in Dietetics at Deakin University in Geelong Victoria as well as post graduate seminars for the management of headaches and migraines in private practice.
See contact details below:
Dr Jerome Dixon
B.App.Sc (Chiropractic) R.M.I.T. 1995
B.Sc (Biochemistry) LaTrobe 1990
Private Practice:
Suite 6 Level 5
517 St Kilda Rd
Melbourne 3004
AUSTRALIA
Headache & Migraine Centre
89 Whitehorse Rd
Balwyn
Melbourne 3103
AUSTRALIA
Contact: E-mail: JEROMEDIXON@bigpond.com
Telephone: +613 9816 8800