Conditions We Treat

Headache and migraine care in Allentown

If you reach for pain relievers several times a week, the headaches are managing you. Many headaches begin in the neck, and those are the ones we can do something about.

Dr. Petrilak treating the upper neck of a patient

Headaches & Migraines

What it feels like, and where it comes from

The top three joints of the neck share nerve connections with the nerves that supply the head and face. When those joints lose motion and the muscles around them stay tight, the result is a headache that starts at the base of the skull and wraps forward to the temples or behind the eyes. These are often called tension or cervicogenic headaches, and they are the most common type we see.

Migraines are different in nature, with their own triggers and symptoms such as light sensitivity and nausea. Even so, many migraine sufferers have neck tension and restriction that lowers their threshold, so that an ordinary stressful day tips into a migraine. Reducing that neck component can mean fewer and less intense episodes for some patients.

Headaches that start at the base of the skull or in the neck
Pressure behind the eyes or in the temples
Headaches after a long day at a desk or screen
Neck stiffness that comes with the headache
Migraines with a tight, sore neck beforehand
Headaches after a car accident or whiplash

How We Help

Our approach to headaches & migraines

Find the neck component

An exam of the upper neck, jaw and shoulders to see whether joint restriction and muscle tension are feeding your headaches, and to rule out signs that need a physician.

Gentle upper neck adjusting

The upper neck is treated with the Activator Method, a precise low-force impulse with no twisting of the head. Patients who would never allow a traditional neck adjustment are comfortable with it.

Fewer triggers

Posture, screen setup, sleep position and jaw tension all feed headaches. You will leave with practical changes that help the relief last.

Dr. Petrilak explaining the upper cervical spine

Your First Visit

What to expect

Bring a sense of your headache pattern: when they come, where they start, how long they last and what helps. Dr. Petrilak will examine your neck, upper back and jaw and ask about anything that would point away from a mechanical cause.

If the neck is a factor, gentle adjusting usually begins the same visit. Many patients notice their headaches become less frequent and less intense over the first few weeks. Headaches that do not fit a mechanical pattern are referred to the right physician.

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Patient Review

In their words

★★★★★

"Dr. Petrilak is one of the best chiropractors I've been to. He explains what he is doing and is very intelligent. My headaches have completely gone away since going to him. He works with you and truly wants to see your symptoms improve. I highly recommend him."

Avery McCallGoogle review

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Common Questions

Questions about headaches & migraines

Straight answers to the questions we hear most. If yours is not here, call us and we will help.

Can a chiropractor really help with headaches?

For headaches that originate in the neck, yes, and that describes a large share of them. Restoring motion in the upper neck and easing the surrounding muscle tension removes the source. Headaches with other causes are referred appropriately.

What about migraines?

Migraines have their own mechanism, but neck tension is a common trigger and amplifier. Some migraine patients find their episodes become less frequent and less severe when the neck is treated. It is not a cure for migraines, and we will be honest with you about what to expect.

When should I see a doctor instead of a chiropractor for a headache?

Seek medical care right away for the worst headache of your life, a headache with fever and stiff neck, a headache after a significant head injury, or one with confusion, vision loss, weakness or trouble speaking. Those are not chiropractic cases.

Is upper neck adjusting safe?

The Activator Method used here is a low-force instrument technique with no rotation or twisting of the head, which is what makes it a comfortable option for the upper neck. A thorough exam is done before any treatment.

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Ready to feel better?

Let's get you out of pain

No forced long-term contracts. Just an accurate diagnosis and care built around you. Call today or request an appointment and we'll take it from there.

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