Migraines and headaches are a common reason patients seek care at Woodroof Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Olathe. Symptoms can range from occasional pressure to episodes that disrupt work, sleep, and daily function. Lasting improvement starts with identifying why your headaches are occurring—not just chasing symptoms.

 

Read our blog here about a patient with headaches and their pain relief with chiropractic care

Migraines and headaches often develop when specific joints, muscles, discs, or nerves become irritated, restricted, or overloaded—commonly influenced by posture, repetitive strain, stress load, or prior injury. An accurate diagnosis helps determine the best treatment approach and a realistic recovery timeline.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Headaches & Migraines

A quick explanation from Dr. Woodroof on how gentle chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, and hydromassage work together to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.

How We Evaluate Migraines & Headaches

If you’ve tried “quick fixes” with only temporary relief, it’s usually because the underlying driver hasn’t been clearly identified. Your evaluation at our office is designed to determine which headache pattern you fit and what’s contributing to it.

1) Consultation (your story matters)
We begin with a detailed history to understand:

  • When symptoms started and how often they occur
  • Where the pain begins and where it travels (temple, behind the eye, base of skull, one-sided vs both sides)
  • Triggers (screen time, driving, stress, sleep position, exertion, certain movements)
  • Associated symptoms (nausea, light/sound sensitivity, dizziness, aura, jaw tension)
  • Prior care and what has/hasn’t worked (medications, PT, massage, injections, imaging)

2) Physical examination (identify the pain generator)
Next, we perform a focused exam that may include:

  • Cervical and upper thoracic joint motion testing (restriction patterns that can refer pain into the head)
  • Muscle and tissue assessment (suboccipitals, upper traps, scalenes, temporalis, TMJ-related tension patterns)
  • Neurological screening (strength, sensation, reflexes as indicated)
  • Movement and posture assessment (head/neck position, shoulder girdle control, workstation-related patterns)

3) Imaging when clinically indicated (not routine, but sometimes important)
When appropriate, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays may be recommended to evaluate spinal alignment, joint integrity, or degenerative changes—especially when symptoms are persistent, there is a history of injury, there are exam findings that change the working diagnosis, or you’ve had a non-resolving pattern. This step matters because the diagnosis directly determines treatment selection, prognosis, and how long care may take.

What Causes Migraines & Headaches?

Headaches are not “one condition.” Many people use the word headache to describe different clinical patterns with different drivers. In practice, headaches commonly involve a combination of mechanical stress, tissue sensitivity, and reduced tolerance to daily loads.

Cervical joint dysfunction and referred pain
Restricted or irritated joints—especially in the upper neck—can refer pain into the head (often the base of the skull, temple, or behind the eye). This is commonly seen in cervicogenic patterns and in people whose symptoms worsen with posture or neck movement.

Muscle overload and protective guarding
Prolonged screen time, stress load, and repetitive positions can increase muscle tension and reduce tissue capacity. Overloaded muscles can become sensitive and contribute to tension-type headache patterns or amplify migraine frequency.

Nerve irritation and sensitization
In some cases, irritated cervical tissues may influence headache severity by increasing sensitivity in related nerve pathways. This does not mean “damage” is present, but rather that the system has become reactive—often after a period of cumulative strain, poor sleep, or a prior neck injury.

 

Common Symptoms of Migraines & Headaches

Patients commonly notice:

  • Dull pressure, tightness, or band-like headache
  • One-sided head pain or pain behind one eye
  • Headaches that start in the neck and “climb” into the head
  • Neck stiffness or reduced range of motion
  • Shoulder/upper back tightness
  • Sensitivity to light or sound (common in migraine patterns)
  • Nausea or stomach upset (migraine patterns)
  • Symptoms worsened by prolonged sitting, screens, driving, or stress
  • Flare-ups linked to sleep position or travel

What Patients Commonly Report

Without relying on testimonials, there are consistent trends we hear in clinic:

  • “I can’t find a comfortable position when it flares up.”
  • “It builds during the day, especially at my desk.”
  • “I feel temporary relief, but it doesn’t last.”
  • “It’s worse after travel, stress, or poor sleep.”
  • “My neck always feels tight when my headaches are bad.”

These patterns help us narrow the likely drivers and choose the right plan.

Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction in the cervical spine, meaning the pain begins in the neck and is referred into the head. These headaches are associated with irritation or restricted motion of the joints, discs, or surrounding soft tissues of the upper cervical spine.

Unlike migraines, which are neurologically driven, cervicogenic headaches are mechanical in nature and are often related to dysfunction of the upper cervical joints.

Common Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headaches

Cervicogenic headaches often present with a distinct pattern. Patients frequently report that the pain begins in the neck and travels forward into the head.

Common characteristics include:

• Headache that is typically one-sided (unilateral)
• Pain beginning in the upper neck or base of the skull
• Pain that radiates toward the temple, forehead, or behind the eye
• Neck stiffness or reduced neck mobility
• Headaches that are aggravated by neck movement

Many patients also notice that prolonged positions such as looking down at a phone, working at a computer, or driving for extended periods can worsen their symptoms.

How Chiropractors Evaluate Cervicogenic Headaches

During a chiropractic examination, the cervical spine is evaluated to determine whether restricted joint motion or muscular tension may be contributing to a patient’s headache pattern.

The evaluation may include:

• Cervical range of motion testing
• Palpation of the cervical joints and surrounding muscles
• Postural assessment
• Orthopedic testing of the upper cervical spine

One commonly used orthopedic test for this condition is the cervical flexion-rotation test.

Cervical Flexion-Rotation Test

The cervical flexion-rotation test is designed to evaluate the mobility of the upper cervical spine, particularly the joints between the first and second cervical vertebrae.

During this test:

  1. The patient’s neck is gently placed into flexion.
  2. The head is then rotated to each side.
  3. Restricted rotation or reproduction of familiar headache symptoms may suggest involvement of the upper cervical joints.

Limited motion during this test can indicate that dysfunction of the upper cervical spine may be contributing to the patient’s headache pattern.

Treatment for Cervicogenic Headaches

When headaches are associated with cervical spine dysfunction, treatment typically focuses on restoring normal motion to the neck and reducing mechanical stress on the cervical spine.

Treatment approaches may include:

• Chiropractic spinal adjustments to restore joint mobility
• Soft tissue therapy to address muscular tension
• Postural correction strategies
• Exercises to strengthen the neck and upper back

Improving cervical mobility and reducing prolonged forward head posture can often help decrease the frequency and intensity of cervicogenic headaches.

Migraines

Migraines are a type of headache that involve complex neurological processes and can produce a wide range of symptoms beyond head pain. Unlike cervicogenic headaches, which originate from mechanical dysfunction of the cervical spine, migraines are believed to involve changes in brain activity that affect nerve signaling, blood vessels, and inflammatory pathways.

Migraine headaches are often more intense than other headache types and may significantly interfere with daily activities. While migraines are considered a neurological condition, many individuals who experience migraines also report associated neck stiffness or cervical muscle tension, which may contribute to symptom aggravation.

Common Symptoms of Migraines

Migraines often present with a distinct set of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration. Episodes may last several hours or even multiple days in some individuals.

Common characteristics of migraines include:

• Moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating head pain
• Headache that is often one-sided, but may affect both sides of the head
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Sensitivity to sound (phonophobia)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Worsening pain with physical activity or movement

Some individuals may also experience neurological symptoms prior to the onset of a migraine, commonly referred to as an aura.

Migraine Aura

A migraine aura refers to temporary neurological symptoms that occur shortly before or during a migraine episode. These symptoms typically develop gradually and may last from several minutes up to about an hour.

Examples of migraine aura symptoms may include:

• Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights, zig-zag lines, or blind spots
• Tingling or numbness in the face or hands
• Difficulty with speech or word finding

Not all individuals who experience migraines develop an aura, but when present, these symptoms can help differentiate migraines from other headache types.

How Migraines Are Evaluated

During an evaluation for headaches, a healthcare provider will often take a detailed history to better understand the pattern, triggers, and associated symptoms of the headache episodes. The goal of the examination is to determine whether the headache pattern is consistent with migraine or if other structures, such as the cervical spine, may be contributing to the symptoms.

Evaluation may include:

• A detailed review of headache history and symptom patterns
• Assessment of potential migraine triggers such as stress, sleep disruption, or dietary factors
• Neurological screening to evaluate sensory and motor function
• Examination of the cervical spine to assess mobility and muscular tension

Because neck tension and cervical dysfunction can sometimes contribute to headache symptoms, evaluating the neck and surrounding musculature is often an important component of a comprehensive headache examination.

Treatment Approaches for Migraines

Management of migraines often involves a combination of strategies designed to reduce the frequency and intensity of headache episodes. Treatment plans may vary depending on the individual’s symptoms and triggers.

Common approaches may include:

• Identifying and managing migraine triggers
• Improving sleep habits and stress management
• Addressing muscular tension in the neck and shoulders
• Exercises to support posture and cervical stability

In some individuals, improving cervical mobility and reducing muscular tension in the neck may help decrease mechanical stress that can aggravate headache symptoms.

While migraines involve neurological processes, addressing contributing musculoskeletal factors such as cervical joint restriction or muscle tension may be beneficial for some patients experiencing headache symptoms.

Tension-Type Headaches

Tension-type headaches are the most common form of headache and are frequently associated with muscular tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. These headaches are often related to prolonged postures, repetitive activities, or stress that places sustained strain on the muscles supporting the cervical and upper thoracic spine.

Unlike migraines, which often involve neurological symptoms such as nausea or sensitivity to light, tension-type headaches typically present as a steady pressure or tightness around the head. Many patients describe the sensation as feeling like a tight band around the forehead or temples.

Muscle tension in areas such as the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles can contribute to this headache pattern. Prolonged sitting, computer work, and forward head posture are common factors that may increase muscular strain in these regions.

Common Symptoms of Tension-Type Headaches

Tension-type headaches often develop gradually and may persist for several hours or longer. These headaches are commonly associated with muscular tightness and postural strain.

Common characteristics include:

• Dull, aching head pain rather than throbbing pain
• Sensation of tightness or pressure around the head
• Pain affecting both sides of the head (bilateral)
• Neck, shoulder, or upper back tightness
• Headaches that worsen after prolonged sitting or desk work

Many individuals with tension-type headaches also report stiffness in the neck and shoulders, especially after extended periods of computer use or looking down at a phone.

How Chiropractors Evaluate Tension-Type Headaches

During an examination for headaches, evaluation often includes assessing the muscles and joints of the cervical and upper thoracic spine to determine whether muscular tension or restricted joint motion may be contributing to symptoms.

The examination may include:

• Postural assessment, particularly looking for forward head posture
• Palpation of the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles
• Evaluation of cervical and thoracic range of motion
• Assessment of muscular tightness in the neck and shoulders

These findings can help identify whether muscular tension and postural strain may be contributing to the patient’s headache pattern.

Treatment Approaches for Tension-Type Headaches

Treatment for tension-type headaches often focuses on reducing muscular tension and improving the mechanics of the cervical and upper thoracic spine. Addressing postural strain and restoring mobility can help reduce stress on the muscles that commonly contribute to these headaches.

Treatment strategies may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments to improve joint mobility in the neck and upper back
• Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscular tension
• Dry needling to address trigger points in tight muscles
• Exercises designed to strengthen the upper back and improve posture

Improving posture and reducing prolonged forward head positioning can help decrease strain on the cervical spine and surrounding musculature, which may help reduce the frequency of tension-type headaches.

How Chiropractic Helps Migraines & Headaches

Chiropractic care is not positioned as a “one-size-fits-all cure” for migraines or headaches. Instead, it can be helpful when your pattern involves mechanical contributors—especially in the cervical and upper thoracic spine.

Mechanisms we target include:

  • Restoring joint motion in areas that commonly refer pain into the head
  • Reducing mechanical stress on sensitive tissues through improved movement and posture strategies
  • Improving tissue tolerance by addressing stiffness + muscle overload patterns
  • Supporting nerve function by decreasing irritation and improving movement efficiency
  • Improving movement control (neck/shoulder mechanics) so daily activities stop re-triggering symptoms

Our Treatment Approach at Woodroof Chiropractic

Because no two headache cases are identical, care is customized to your diagnosis, exam findings, severity, and response to treatment. Your plan may include:

As function improves and irritation decreases, care is progressed and adjusted. Many patients notice improvement within the first several visits, though timelines vary based on chronicity, underlying drivers, and individual response.

Our Services

Prognosis & What to Expect

Headache recovery depends on the pattern and how long it has been present.

Acute or recent-onset patterns
When headaches are tied to a recent flare, posture change, travel, or mild strain, symptoms often respond more quickly—especially when mechanical drivers are identified early.

Chronic or recurrent patterns
If headaches have been present for months/years, or they recur frequently, improvement typically requires more than symptom control. We focus on restoring motion, improving tissue tolerance, and reducing repeated triggers (workstation habits, sleep position, stress load, movement efficiency). This often takes a structured plan and consistency.

When imaging, co-management, or referral is appropriate
If exam findings suggest a non-mechanical driver, symptoms are worsening or atypical, or there are red-flag features (sudden “worst headache,” neurological changes, progressive weakness, concerning systemic symptoms), we will recommend the appropriate next step—imaging and/or medical co-management—because accurate diagnosis determines safe care.

If insurance is a factor in timing or planning, you can review insurance information before scheduling.

FAQ — Migraines & Headaches

Q: Why do migraines or headaches get worse with prolonged sitting?
A: Sitting places pressure on the upper cervical joints, increasing muscle tension and nerve irritation that trigger headache patterns.

Q: Do I need X-rays for headaches or migraines?
A: Most patients do not need imaging unless red flags or trauma are present.

Q: How long until I feel better?
A: Many patients improve within the first 1–3 visits depending on severity, duration, and underlying mechanical issues.

Q: Can neck problems cause pain behind the eyes or temples?
A: Yes. Irritated upper cervical nerves commonly refer pain into the eyes, forehead, and temples.

Q: What makes headaches or migraines flare up?
A: Triggers include posture strain, stress, dehydration, repetitive motion, inflammation, and prolonged screen time

Ready for relief?

Call our Olathe chiropractic office at 913-735-6351 or schedule your visit online to begin a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan.

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