According to the World Health Organization, headache disorders affect approximately 40% of the global population as of 2021. For many, this condition interferes with work, sleep, and daily function. The most prevalent types of headaches are tension headaches and migraines, and both may be linked to musculoskeletal issues in the neck and spine.
Identifying the underlying cause of headaches is essential to providing effective and lasting relief. Headaches triggered by poor posture, joint dysfunction, or nerve irritation often persist if these sources go unaddressed. Relying solely on painkillers or short-term relief can allow the problem to worsen over time.
At BioPeak Health, care starts with understanding why the headache occurs. Our North Raleigh chiropractors evaluate spinal alignment, muscle balance, and nerve function to guide treatment. This approach supports long-term improvement and prevents recurring issues.
Common Types of Headaches Chiropractic Can Address
Chiropractic care can help manage recurring headaches by restoring proper spinal alignment, improving posture, and reducing muscle strain. At BioPeak Health, our chiropractors in Raleigh, NC, create care plans based on each patient’s spinal function and headache pattern. Here’s how specific headache types can respond to chiropractic treatment.
Tension Headaches
This type of headache is often caused by tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. It feels like a steady ache or a tight band around the head. These headaches can last anywhere between 30 minutes and several days. Common triggers are stress, poor posture, or fatigue.
The lifetime prevalence of tension-type headaches in the general population ranges between 30% and 78% in different studies. Many cases are related to forward head posture and repetitive strain from desk work or screen use.
At BioPeak Health, we address tension headaches with chiropractic care. It can improve joint mobility in the upper spine and reduce the muscle tension that contributes to these headaches. For patients who sit for long periods, targeted rehab is used to restore better movement patterns and reduce muscle fatigue.
Cervicogenic Headaches
Cervicogenic headaches begin in the neck and are caused by joint or soft tissue dysfunction in the upper cervical spine.
These headaches often feel like a deep, non-throbbing ache that starts at the base of the skull and can radiate toward the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. They tend to occur on one side of the head and may worsen with neck movement or poor posture. Cervicogenic headaches are often confused with migraines due to overlapping symptoms. In clinical cases, dysfunction at the C1-C3 vertebrae is frequently involved. Inflammation or restricted motion in these joints can irritate nearby nerves, causing pain to the head and face.
At BioPeak Health, our chiropractors in Raleigh, NC, assess cervical motion and segmental restrictions and provide treatment to restore neck function. Patients often see reduced frequency and intensity of cervicogenic headaches once joint stress is removed and posture improves.
Migraine Headaches
Migraine headaches are severe, recurrent headaches that may be linked to spinal stress and nervous system imbalance.
Migraines cause throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. It is frequently accompanied by symptoms like nausea, light sensitivity, or visual disturbances (auras). Attacks can last from a few hours to several days and may be triggered by stress, sleep disruption, hormone changes, or diet.
Although migraines are neurologically driven, studies suggest that spinal dysfunction and muscle imbalance may amplify the severity or frequency. According to the CDC, over 15% of U.S. adults experience migraines or severe headaches. Postural stress, particularly forward head carriage, can increase tension in the upper neck and contribute to migraine onset.
At BioPeak Health, our chiropractic care for migraines includes spinal adjustments, muscle therapy, and targeted rehab. The SuperHuman Protocol is used to support blood flow and cellular recovery, both of which are often impaired during migraine episodes. While chiropractic doesn’t cure migraines, it helps manage contributing mechanical and neurological triggers that worsen them. We also offer the Brain Booster program which acts like a battery charger for the brain increases Oxygen to the brain and decreases stubborn inflammation that often is the CAUSE to head pain. This is a new therapy that is only available at our Clinics! Patients lay comfortably on bed for 30 minutes while the non-invasive therapy painlessly restores normal brain function.
How Chiropractic Care Targets Headache Triggers
Chiropractic care and Brain Boosting reduces headache frequency and severity by correcting spinal misalignments and improving posture while also restoring normal brain wave activity. At BioPeak Health, our treatment plans focus on identifying and correcting physical stressors that contribute to chronic headaches.
Spinal Misalignment and Its Role in Nerve and Muscle Tension
When spinal joints are misaligned, they can irritate nearby nerves and strain surrounding muscles. This irritation can lead to muscle tightness and inflammation, particularly in the neck and upper back. Over time, this tension can trigger or worsen headaches, especially tension-type and cervicogenic headaches.
Misalignment in the cervical spine can also affect blood flow to the brainstem area, which may influence headache symptoms. Research shows that spinal dysfunction, particularly at the C1–C3 levels, is linked to increased headache activity. These segments are closely associated with the trigeminal nerve system, which processes pain signals in the head and face.
Our chiropractors in Raleigh, NC, use targeted adjustments to improve motion in these key joints. This reduces nerve irritation, relieves soft tissue strain, and improves neck mechanics.
Poor Posture and Desk Work as Underlying Contributors
Extended sitting, especially with poor posture, places ongoing stress on the cervical spine and upper back. Forward head posture is a common result of desk work. It can increase the load on the neck by up to 60 pounds, depending on the head angle. This postural strain shortens muscles in the back of the neck and overworks stabilizing muscles. As a result, tension headaches and cervicogenic pain become more frequent.
At BioPeak Health, postural assessment is a routine part of care. Our North Raleigh chiropractors analyze how patients sit, stand, and move. Corrective exercises are prescribed alongside adjustments to build long-term postural resilience. Many patients who work in offices or use computers extensively find relief once their posture is corrected and muscle balance is restored.
How Adjustments Restore Balance and Relieve Pressure on Nerves
Chiropractic adjustments restore joint alignment, reduce inflammation, and relieve pressure on spinal nerves. Adjustments involve precise, controlled force to improve motion in restricted joints. This lowers stress on the nervous system and helps muscles relax. In headache patients, restoring proper spinal motion often leads to fewer flare-ups and less severe pain.
At BioPeak Health, adjustments are paired with active rehab to help patients maintain better alignment between visits. We also offer the SuperHuman Protocol, which supports recovery by improving oxygen flow and cellular repair.
This approach reduces the frequency and intensity of headaches by correcting their mechanical and neurological triggers. If you’re looking for a chiropractor near you who can address the cause of headaches, our team is here to help you find lasting relief.
Headache Relief Techniques Used at BioPeak Health
BioPeak Health uses specialized techniques to treat the root causes of chronic headaches. We focus on spinal alignment, disc health, and improved circulation. These methods are selected based on individual assessments and are tailored to reduce tension, inflammation, and nerve stress.
Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression relieves pressure on cervical discs, reducing nerve irritation that can lead to headaches. Cervicogenic headaches often stem from joint or disc problems in the upper cervical spine. When these discs are compressed or inflamed, they can cause pain in the head and limit neck movement.
Disc decompression eases muscle tension and nerve irritation in the neck, which are the two common triggers for tension headaches. It can also relieve pressure on nerves that contribute to migraine attacks. Improving cervical spine alignment and reducing inflammation can be an important part of a broader migraine care plan.
Isolation Disc Therapy (IDT) Offered at BioPeak Health
Isolation Disc Therapy targets specific spinal segments where disc damage or inflammation contributes to recurring headaches. Unlike general traction methods, Isolation Disc Therapy is designed to pinpoint the problematic disc and treat it with controlled, focused movement. This precision allows for more effective relief of nerve compression and localized inflammation.
Patients with cervicogenic headaches or postural disc strain benefit from this technique, especially if standard care hasn’t addressed deep cervical pain. The goal is to restore disc height and reduce pain signals transmitted from the spine to the head.
At BioPeak Health, we integrate this therapy into broader treatment plans that include postural rehab and chiropractic adjustments. This helps our patients manage pain without relying on medication.
SuperHuman Protocol: A Complement to Chiropractic Adjustments
The SuperHuman Protocol improves oxygen circulation, muscle recovery, and nervous system function to support headache relief.
This three-part system includes pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, oxygen training, and red light therapy. Together, they enhance the body’s ability to heal and manage stress, which are factors that often influence headache frequency.
In patients with migraines or tension headaches, better cellular oxygenation may reduce the intensity of episodes. Improved circulation also helps lower systemic inflammation, which contributes to nerve sensitivity.
BioPeak Health is the only SupeHuman Protocol-certified clinic in North Carolina. We use it alongside spinal adjustments to support the recovery. While adjustments correct spinal alignment, this protocol addresses whole-body recovery, making it a useful add-on for patients with recurring or complex headache patterns.
When to See a Chiropractor for Headaches
See a chiropractor near you if your headaches are frequent, severe, or linked to neck pain or posture issues. Headaches that happen often or interfere with daily life may be connected to problems in the spine or muscles. If your pain starts after long hours at a desk, worsens with certain movements, or is accompanied by neck stiffness, these are signs that spinal alignment could be a factor.
For example, office workers who sit at computers all day may develop tension headaches from poor posture. Athletes sometimes notice headaches after physical strain or minor injuries to the neck. People with a history of whiplash or car accidents can also experience headaches related to spinal issues.
If over-the-counter pain relief does not help, or if your headaches get worse with activity or certain positions, chiropractic care may help address the underlying cause.
Warning Signs That Headaches Are Spine or Posture-Related
Headaches that occur along with neck pain, stiffness, or poor posture are often connected to problems in the spine. Common warning signs include headaches that start at the base of the skull and move forward, pain that gets worse after sitting or standing for long periods, and headaches that improve with neck movement or stretching.
For example, someone who feels relief after adjusting their posture or taking breaks from their desk may have posture-related headaches. If you notice headaches after sleeping in an awkward position, this can also point to a spinal connection.
Headaches that come with neck or shoulder tightness or that follow a recent injury may indicate that the spine is involved.
How to Know if Your Symptoms Might Benefit from Chiropractic Care
You may benefit from chiropractic care if your headaches are persistent, related to neck tension, or triggered by posture. If you experience headaches several times a week or if your pain is linked to certain activities or positions, a chiropractic evaluation can help. Chiropractors assess spinal alignment and muscle tension to find possible causes.
For example, a chiropractor might identify muscle tightness in the neck that contributes to tension headaches. They may also find that a misaligned vertebra is causing nerve irritation. Treatment can include adjustments, posture advice, and exercises to relieve pressure and improve function. If you are unsure, a consultation with a chiropractor near you can help determine if your symptoms are likely to respond to chiropractic care.
At BioPeak Health, we offer personalized assessments to determine the cause of your headache and create a tailored treatment plan to provide lasting relief. We focus on restoring spinal alignment and reducing muscle tension, helping you get back to a pain-free life. If you are looking for a chiropractor in Raleigh, NC, contact us to learn how we can help.
Why Choose BioPeak Health for Headache Treatment in North Raleigh
At BioPeak Health, we provide targeted headache relief through personalized care and proven chiropractic methods. Our approach integrates advanced diagnostics and tailored treatments to help you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.
Individualized Care Plans Based on Functional Movement and Diagnostics
Our chiropractors in Raleigh, NC, focus on identifying the underlying causes of headaches to offer treatments that address your specific needs. We develop plans tailored to your unique body mechanics and diagnostic results.
By assessing your functional movement and using advanced testing, we pinpoint the exact factors contributing to your headaches. This allows us to create effective, customized treatment strategies. Through detailed evaluations, we gain a complete understanding of your condition, ensuring that our treatments are precisely targeted to your specific needs. This leads to more effective and sustainable relief.
Advanced Therapies for Spinal Support
Our North Raleigh chiropractors offer specialized treatments like Isolation Disc Therapy to support spinal health. This gentle, non-surgical therapy relieves pressure on damaged discs, which can reduce headache frequency and improve overall spinal function. As the only clinic certified in Isolation Disc Therapy in the state, we provide a unique option for those seeking relief from chronic headaches related to spinal issues. Our commitment to utilizing advanced techniques ensures that you receive the best possible care.
Dr. Chris Werness’s 29+ Years of Chiropractic Experience in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Chris Werness brings nearly three decades of experience to every patient’s care. His extensive background ensures safe, effective treatments tailored to your condition. Patients benefit from his deep knowledge of spinal health and headache management. With his long-standing practice as a North Raleigh chiropractor, Dr. Werness has built a reputation for excellence and compassionate care, making BioPeak Health a trusted choice for chiropractic services.
Take the Next Step Toward Headache Relief
Chiropractic care can be an effective solution for many types of headaches, especially when they are related to spinal alignment or posture. At BioPeak Health, we combine advanced diagnostics, individualized care plans, and proven therapies to address the root causes of your pain. With over 29 years of experience, Dr. Chris Werness and our team of chiropractors in Raleigh, NC, are dedicated to helping you find lasting relief.
Ready to find lasting relief from headaches? BioPeak Health is here to help. We are the chiropractor near you who understands how to address the root causes of headache pain. Our team offers personalized care and proven results. Call/Text us at (984) 355-8822, email [email protected], or visit our website to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward better health.
