Cervicogenic Headaches

Pain in the head can be caused by dysfunction in the spinal column. At the Central Virginia Chiropractic Center in Lynchburg, we use safe, comfortable treatments for headaches that originate from elsewhere in the body, including those that originate in the neck. These are called cervicogenic or cervical headaches.

There are different kinds of headaches that can be related to tension in the neck. Cervicogenic headaches are those which are first felt in the back of the head and then radiate outward. They are often felt on just one side and are associated with difficulty turning the head, although they tend to occur after the head has been still for a long time. Some people also become especially sensitive to bright lights and loud noise.

When a patient comes to us suffering from what sounds like a cervicogenic headache, we’ll run imaging tests in an attempt to learn more about the cause. There could be tumors or an infection in the spine, but the problem is often a pinched nerve or damaged disc. We can help to fix these problems with treatments such as spinal adjustments and physical therapy and can ease the pain with cryotherapy.

Dr. Darlene Holland operates Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. at 7327 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502. To schedule an appointment, visit Central Virginia Chiropractic or call 434-237-0413.

 

Spinal Anatomy

The guiding principle at the Central Virginia Chiropractic Center is that patient pain can be relieved by freeing up misaligned joints and bones. In order for patients to understand and comply with their treatment, it is important for them to feel they have an understanding of it. That’s why we’re supplying this run-down of spinal anatomy.

The “backbone” actually consists of dozens of vertebrae. At its lowest part are two groups of vertebrae, the sacrum and coccyx, which are fused together. The other twenty-four vertebrae are separated by spongy, shock-absorbing discs, with the exception of the two at the top, which control head movements. The top seven vertebrae are the cervical bones, or neck bones. There are twelve thoracic vertebrae which make up the upper back, and five lumbar vertebrae which make up the lower back. Vertebrae have an arch-shaped ridge protruding from their backs. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves which runs through the canal made by these arches.

When the spinal cord is compressed, the body is adversely affected. Nerves to other parts of the body branch off from the spinal cord, so a problem in the spine could also cause problems in a different part of the body. Inflammation and breaks in the discs separating the vertebrae can also cause back pain.

Dr. Darlene Holland operates Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. at 7327 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502. To schedule an appointment, visit Central Virginia Chiropractic or call 434-237-0413.

 

Acute Pain

Most of us are no strangers to pain. After all, pain is a part of life. Acute pain lets you know that you’ve been hurt and usually doesn’t last long. Acute pain lasts less than 3 to 6 months but this is still a long time to suffer. If you experience ongoing pain related to your soft tissues or muscle groups, schedule a consultation with Dr. Darlene Holland, D.C. of Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc.

The main characteristic of acute pain is that it doesn’t last long. For example, if you burn yourself on the stove, the pain usually lasts up to a few days, if not a few hours. When the injury heals and you continue having pain beyond the time of expected recovery, that is when pain becomes chronic and that is what you want to avoid. Dr. Darlene Holland D.C. will be able to diagnose the cause of your pain and discuss treatment options with you.

If you have questions or concerns regarding acute pain management, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.centralvachiro.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Darlene Holland, D.C. of Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. in Lynchburg, VA, call 434-237-0413.

Characteristics of Chronic Pain

If you suffer from a condition such as arthritis or perhaps you’ve been injured in a sport or an auto accident, you may feel pain as a sting, a burn, a tingle, or an ache. When this pain lasts for weeks or months, it’s important to seek treatment before it lasts for years. Dr. Darlene Holland, D.C. of Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. can treat chronic pain and get you comfortably back on your feet.

Chronic pain may range from mild to severe and common conditions that cause it are past injuries, surgeries, migraines, or nerve damage. The pain may feel like a dull ache, throbbing, burning, soreness, or stiffness. If chronic pain is left untreated, the problem will only get worse over time and this may lead to more invasive treatment. If you experience pain that lasts more than one week, give us a call to discuss your treatment options.

If you have questions or concerns regarding chronic pain management, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.centralvachiro.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Darlene Holland, D.C. of Central Virginia Chiropractic Center, Inc. in Lynchburg, VA, call 434-237-0413.