Today’s Symptoms:
Old Injuries
Can Todays Symptoms be Related to Old Injuries?
What causes headaches, migraines and vertigo? Could it be something from the past? Years or even decades ago? Let’s take a look…
When someone experiences a NEW problem (such as headaches, migraines or vertigo), we may evaluate all recent events to determine the onset of such symptoms. This is called a “recency bias.”
Symptoms that are triggered in the present, are actually the cause of some past event going back months, years or even decades. We can use the example of a car accident when you were 20 years old. If you are now 30-40 years old and starting to experience more or worsening symptoms, you may not connect the dots to your past… How can an injury from so long ago actually be the cause of what we are going through right now?
Why does it take time for Headaches, Migraines and Vertigo to appear?
There can be various reasons why sence delayed symptom ome people may experionset like headaches, migraines or vertigo after a car accident. Here are some possible explanations:
1. Slow-developing injuries: Certain types of injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injury, may not show immediate symptoms after a car accident. These injuries can develop gradually over time, and it may take several years before the symptoms become noticeable.
2. Psychological factors: Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and some people may develop psychological conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety after the accident. These conditions can manifest as physical symptoms like headaches, migraines, or vertigo, and may take time to develop.
3. Lifestyle changes: After a car accident, people may change their lifestyle habits or activity levels, which can contribute to the development of headaches, migraines, or vertigo. For example, they may start sitting at a desk for longer periods of time or have less physical activity, leading to headaches triggered by muscle tension or strain.
4. Underlying conditions: Some people may already have underlying conditions that predispose them to headaches, migraines, or vertigo, and the car accident may be the cause of these conditions becoming more noticeable.
The Cervical Spine is The Key For Treating Headaches, Migraines and Vertigo
In a car accident, sudden, violent movements of the neck can stretch or tear ligaments and soft tissues, often causing whiplash-associated disorders (WAD). This hyperextension-hyperflexion motion can also lead to vertebral subluxations, or misalignments of the spinal vertebrae, which may put pressure on nerves and disrupt normal nervous system function.
If left untreated, these injuries can result in chronic pain, headaches, migraines, or vertigo. Misalignments can affect blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid to the brain, contributing to headaches and migraines, while alterations to the inner ear’s vestibular system can trigger vertigo. Early evaluation and treatment are crucial to restore proper alignment and prevent long-term complications.
It’s Not Just Car Accidents. It Happens When We Are Kids Too!
While WAD is commonly associated with car accidents, there are other types of injuries or activities that can cause these types of injuries, especially in younger individuals. Here are some examples:
1. Sports injuries: Contact sports, such as football or rugby, can put young athletes at risk of neck injuries that can result in WAD. Gymnastics, cheerleading and other activities involving acrobatics and stunts may put the neck at risk.
2. Falls: Falls from a height, such as from a tree or a playground structure, can cause WAD. Children and teenagers may fall during activities such as skateboarding or biking, resulting in neck injury.
3. Physical altercations: Fights or physical altercations can result in injuries to the neck that can cause WAD.
4. Poor posture: Poor posture habits, such as slouching or hunching over a computer or phone, can cause strain on the neck muscles.
titive strain: Activities that involve repetitive neck movements, such as playing an instrument or working in a job that requires constant bending of the neck, can lead to WAD over time.
It’s important to note that not all neck injuries will result in WAD, and the severity and onset of symptoms can vary from person to person. However, if you have experienced any of these types of injuries or activities and are experiencing symptoms such as neck pain, headaches, or vertigo, it’s important to seek professional attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
The Blair Technique for Headaches, Migraines and Vertigo
The Blair technique is a gentle, precise chiropractic adjustment that focuses on the upper cervical spine—specifically the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae. Unlike general spinal manipulation, which may involve twisting or thrusting movements along the entire spine, the Blair technique uses detailed analysis and exact measurements to correct misalignments in the neck without twisting or cracking.
By restoring proper alignment and motion at the junction between your head and neck, the Blair technique allows your nervous system to function optimally, supporting your body’s natural ability to heal itself.
If you are looking for a Chiropractor in Spokane, visit our homepage for more information. To schedule a new patient appointment with our Mead (north Spokane) or South Hill offices, complete a New patient request form here or call us direct at 509-315-8166.