Recurring headaches are not normal. Tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches may differ in intensity—but they often share one thing in common: an underlying cause that needs to be addressed, not just masked.
Headaches affect nearly 75% of adults and can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. They often stem from a variety of triggers, including:
- Poor posture
- Chronic stress
- Muscle tension
- Eye strain or dehydration
- Spinal misalignments (subluxations)
At Truth Family Chiropractic, we take a whole-body approach to understanding what’s behind your recurring headaches. Often, we find that structural imbalances in the spine—particularly in the neck—can interfere with the nervous system, contributing to chronic pain and tension.
Instead of masking the pain with medications like Advil or Tylenol—which can cause side effects like dizziness, ulcers, or liver stress—we use gentle, drug-free chiropractic care. This includes:
- Targeted spinal adjustments
- Personalized home care exercises
- Posture and ergonomic coaching
Our goal is long-term relief—working to reduce how often your headaches occur and how severe they feel by correcting the issues behind them.
Book Your First Exam Today
Why wait to begin feeling relief? Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.
How Our Headaches Care Plan Works
1. Get The Truth
Stop searching for answers. Finally, get the truth about what’s causing your health problems so that you can create a plan to get your life back.
2. Get Real Solutions
Based on your health goals and your doctor’s findings, we’ll customize a plan of attack that will give you the solutions you’ve been desperately searching for.
3. Live A Life Without Limitations
Unleash your full potential and have the impact and purpose God intended for you.
How We Treat Headaches in West Des Moines, IA
Comprehensive Consultation and Exam
At Truth Family Chiropractic, we start with one goal: to understand exactly why you’re experiencing headaches—so we can correct what’s causing your headaches—not just manage how they feel.
Step 1: Comprehensive Consultation
Your care begins with a personalized consultation to understand your symptoms. where we discuss your headache history, lifestyle, posture, daily habits, and any past injuries.
We take time to understand what you’re experiencing and what might be contributing to your symptoms.
Step 2: Neurological & Postural Exams
Next, we perform a detailed spinal and postural assessment to evaluate:
- Spinal alignment and mobility
- Muscle tone and nerve responsiveness
- Balance and structural stress points
We also use nerve scans to visualize stress on your nervous system, and X-rays (if needed) to see the exact condition of your cervical spine.
Step 3: Personalized Diagnosis
Combining all of this data allows us to identify the underlying imbalances—whether structural, muscular, or neurological—that may be causing your headaches.
Using this data-driven process, we design a care plan that’s customized for your body, your symptoms, and your long-term goals.
Understanding the root cause of the problem is critical because it enables us to provide more effective and targeted treatments. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we aim to identify the underlying issue—be it a misalignment, muscle imbalance, degenerative condition, or other causes—to implement a strategy that alleviates symptoms, promotes long-term health, and prevents recurrence. This patient-centered approach ensures that our interventions are not just about temporary relief but about fostering an environment within the body that supports healing, optimizes function, and promotes a lifestyle change that negates future headaches from reoccurring.
Digital X-rays
Digital X-rays are pivotal in the diagnostic process for chronic headaches, offering valuable insights that can guide effective treatment strategies. By providing detailed images of the skull, neck, and upper spine, X-rays can uncover structural abnormalities, injuries, or conditions contributing to headache pain. This includes issues such as sinus blockages, fractures, cervical spine misalignments, and signs of degenerative diseases that might be at the root of headache symptoms. X-rays are crucial for ruling out certain causes of headaches and pinpointing areas that may require further investigation through more advanced imaging techniques.
Concerns regarding the safety of X-rays often arise due to radiation exposure; however, digital X-rays utilize significantly less radiation than traditional X-ray methods, making them a safer option. The low level of radiation, the high diagnostic value, and the ability to swiftly identify potential problems ensure that the benefits of digital X-rays often outweigh the risks. By helping to establish a clear picture of any underlying physical issues, digital X-rays enable chiropractors to tailor treatment plans more accurately, aiming for targeted interventions that address the specific causes of a patient’s headaches. This precise approach facilitates more effective management and relief of headache symptoms, improving patient outcomes.
Chiropractic Care in West Des Moines, IA
At Truth Family Chiropractic, specific chiropractic care targets the diagnosis and correction of subluxations, which are misalignments of the vertebrae that interfere with nerve transmissions. Subluxations in the cervical spine can significantly impact the nervous system, leading to various issues, including headaches. Spinal misalignments irritate or compress nerve pathways, affect blood flow, and strain muscles, all of which can contribute to the onset or exacerbation of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines.
Chiropractic adjustments aim to realign these vertebrae, thereby reducing nerve irritation and improving overall spinal function. For patients suffering from headaches, this can significantly reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of their symptoms. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive and drug-free alternative to conventional headache treatments, which often rely on medication to temporarily relieve symptoms rather than address the underlying cause. By focusing on the root of the problem through spinal adjustments and offering lifestyle and nutritional advice, chiropractic care provides a holistic approach. This approach helps alleviate immediate discomfort and promotes long-term health and well-being, making it a superior treatment model for many individuals suffering from chronic headaches.
Common Types of Headaches in West Des Moines, IA
Tension Headaches
The hallmark characteristic of tension headaches is a dull, aching sensation all over the head, often described as a tight band around the forehead, alongside possible tenderness around the forehead and scalp. Stress, muscle strain, and poor posture are frequent culprits behind tension headaches. Relaxation techniques and improvements in posture can be effective in alleviating them. Chiropractic adjustments, regular exercise, and stress management can also prevent their occurrence, addressing both the symptoms and their root causes.
Migraine Headaches
Migraines are known for their severe, throbbing pain, typically on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes visual disturbances known as aura. The exact cause of migraines is still under investigation, but genetic and environmental factors play a significant role. Avoidance of known triggers, such as certain foods or stress, can help manage migraine symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments and rest are also great tactics to address migraines and their symptoms.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are intensely painful, often described as piercing or burning sensations localized around one eye. They occur in cyclical patterns or clusters, frequently waking sufferers from sleep. Though not entirely understood, cluster headaches are thought to be related to the body’s biological clock. Treatment often includes oxygen therapy, triptans, and corticosteroids to reduce the severity of attacks. Preventive treatments can also be effective in reducing the frequency of headache clusters.
Allergy or Sinus Headaches
Allergy or sinus headaches cause pain in the front of the head and face due to sinus pressure and inflammation. They are typically accompanied by other sinus symptoms, such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and facial pressure. These headaches are primarily caused by allergic reactions or sinus infections. Treating the underlying sinus condition with chiropractic treatment as well as using nasal saline irrigation, can offer significant relief from these headaches.
Cervicogenic Headache
Originating from neck disorders, cervicogenic headaches are felt as pain in the back of the head, neck, eyes, or forehead. Specific neck movements or positions often worsen the pain. Issues within the cervical spine, such as degenerative disc disease, neck injuries, or chronic poor posture, cause these headaches. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cervical issue through chiropractic care, which aims to alleviate the source of the pain.
Concussion
Concussions follow a head injury and feel like a persistent dull ache across the head or in specific areas, often accompanied by sensitivity to light and noise, dizziness, and cognitive disturbances. The headaches that normally follow a concussion result from the brain being shaken inside the skull, leading to temporary brain injury. Rest and gradual return to normal activities under medical guidance are crucial for recovery. Adjustments are crucial to alleviate the headache symptoms, but it’s important to follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations to avoid complications and ensure a safe recovery from the concussion.
Check Out Our Locations Near You
West Des Moines
1905 EP True Pkwy #207, West Des Moines, IA 50265
St. Charles
133 W Main Street St. Charles, IA 50240
Frequently Asked Questions About Chiropractic Headache Treatment
1. Is a chiropractor in West Des Moines, IA, good for headaches?
Yes. Chiropractors are trained to address headache triggers related to spinal alignment, posture, and muscle tension. At Truth Family Chiropractic, we use specific spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on nerves that may be contributing to tension or cervicogenic headaches.
2. When should you see a chiropractor for headaches?
You should consider chiropractic care if:
- Your headaches are frequent or worsening
- They start in your neck or upper back
- Over-the-counter medications aren’t helping
- You prefer a drug-free, long-term solution
Early care can help prevent symptoms from becoming chronic.
3. Do medical doctors recommend chiropractors for headaches?
Yes, in many cases. Some physicians refer patients to chiropractors—especially when headaches stem from musculoskeletal issues like neck tension or spinal misalignment. Integrative care approaches often combine medical and chiropractic treatments for better outcomes.
4. Does insurance cover chiropractors for headaches?
Most insurance plans provide some level of coverage for chiropractic care, including treatment for headaches. However, benefits vary depending on your provider and plan. We’re happy to verify your coverage and explain your options before starting care.
5. How can I relieve my headaches?
Natural headache relief often includes:
- Spinal adjustments to improve nerve function
- Drinking plenty of water
- Practicing relaxation techniques
- Identifying and avoiding personal triggers like poor posture, screen time, or stress
A chiropractor can help uncover the underlying cause and build a personalized plan.
6. Can getting your neck adjusted help with headaches?
Yes. Neck adjustments can be highly effective, especially if your headaches are caused by tension, restricted joint movement, or spinal misalignment. Proper alignment relieves pressure on nerves and muscles that may be contributing to your pain.
7. Is chiropractic effective for migraines?
Chiropractic treatment may lessen how often migraines occur and how intense the episodes feel. By improving spinal alignment and reducing nerve irritation, many patients report fewer attacks and better overall quality of life. While not a cure, it’s a proven part of many migraine management plans.
8. What is a natural way to relieve tension headaches?
Some natural strategies include:
- Regular chiropractic adjustments
- Staying hydrated
- Daily stretching or posture exercises
- Stress management (like meditation or deep breathing)
We focus on long-term, drug-free solutions that reduce tension and restore nervous system balance.
9. Who is the best chiropractor in Des Moines, IA, for headaches?
At Truth Family Chiropractic, our doctors specialize in headache relief through a comprehensive approach. We take time to understand your health history, conduct thorough spinal evaluations, and create a personalized plan to help you get lasting, drug-free relief.
10. How long does it take for chiropractic care to help with headaches?
Every patient is different, but many start to notice improvement within the first few weeks of consistent care. Depending on the cause of your headaches and how long you’ve had them, you may need a few sessions or ongoing adjustments to see lasting results. During your initial visit, we’ll evaluate your spine and nervous system and create a customized care plan with realistic expectations for your recovery.
Chiropractor
Dr. Kevin Miller, DC
With over 20 years of chiropractic experience and a personal journey of healing through chiropractic care, Dr. Miller leads our team at Truth Family Chiropractic. His expertise in spinal alignment and nervous system function helps patients uncover the root causes of chronic headaches and find lasting relief—without relying on medication.
Book Your First Exam Today
Why wait to begin feeling relief? Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.