13-Year old boy was headache sufferer for four years

According to a case study published late last fall in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, a course of chiropractic care was successful in completely eliminating headaches a 13-year old male patient had been experiencing at least five hours a day for four years.

"Headaches are a common disorder affecting two-thirds of the world's population," said Norwich -based Dr. Robert Wrieden, D.C., "but we are still in the dark about all the causal factors and, in many instances, the most effective treatment options, which often depend on the mechanics of the specific type of headache presented. Experts have recognized 14 distinct types of headache."

This particular case study concerns what is know as a cervicogenic headache, likely caused by poor joint function impacting the cervical spine and causing a malfunction of the nervous system. This type of headache presents symptoms such as "recurrent moderate to severe headaches arising from the neck . . . ." The cervical spine most often shows reduced range of motion, which causes pain spikes with certain movements of the head and neck.

The initial chiropractic examination of the patient involved in this case study noted problems with posture and range of motion, along with "subluxations" in the thoracic and cervical spine.

"A subluxation is a misalignment of the spine that disturbs normal nervous system function," said Dr. Wrieden. "Many chiropractors, including myself, have special, non-intrusive technology that allows them to conduct thermal and

Surface Electromyography (sEMG) tests to assist in locating where such conditions exist. Because we know that the nervous system is the master controller of almost all bodily functions," Dr. Wrieden continued, "we are not surprised when improvement of nervous system function contributes greatly to normal bodily function in a wide variety of areas."

After just six weeks of chiropractic care, the patient's posture and range of motion improved significantly. More important to the young man, he was headache free for the first time in four years.

"There are certainly no guarantees with any course of care," said Dr. Wrieden, who strives to keep current with the latest research and developments in health and wellness. "And every case depends on the specific factors associated with that case. More research is needed, but we see, from time to time, individual case studies that give rise to hope for many."

Reference:

"Resolution of Headaches in a 13 Year-Old Following Restoration of Cervical Curvature Utilizing Chiropractic Biophysics: A Case Report," by Curtis Fedorchuck, D.C., and Greg Wheeler, D.C., Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, November 30, 2009.

Editor's note:

Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Wrieden, whose office is located at 60 Mitchell Street, Norwich, USA (telephone 607-336-7030).