Headaches and Migraines Treatment in Murrieta, CA
Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C., has treated hundreds of patients in Murrieta suffering from recurring headaches and migraines. These conditions can interfere with work, sleep, and daily life, especially when they return frequently or become more intense over time.
Headaches and migraines often develop due to tension, posture issues, or spinal misalignment rather than a single trigger. At California Oaks Chiropractic, we focus on identifying what is causing the problem, not just managing the pain.
Medication may help in the short term, but when the problem is ongoing or recurring, pills are generally not enough. The source of your headaches and migraines is usually structural, and therefore, proper treatment can help you overcome this debilitating issue.
Call (951) 698-2511 to discuss your concerns.
What Are Headaches and Migraines?
Headaches typically cause mild to moderate pain and may feel like pressure or tightness around the head or neck.
Migraines are usually more intense and may include:
- Throbbing or pulsing pain
- Light and noise intolerance
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual disturbances
- Hallucinations and depression
Understanding the difference helps guide proper treatment.
Common Causes of Headaches and Migraines
When the spine moves out of position because of developmental issues, trauma, repetitive stress, and other incidents, it can put pressure on the surrounding nerves. When the nerves are compressed or irritated, they send a message to the muscles of the back, neck, and jaw to tighten.
This tightness can lead directly to an acute headache or migraine. Over time, the tightness can also pull your bones out of alignment, leading to more persistent headaches and migraines.
A headache or migraine can be a sign that there are deeper problems arising in your spinal column, and because every other system in your body is impacted by your spinal health, it is very important to deal with these issues when the signs begin to arise.
Common Types of Headaches
Some of the most common headache types include:
Tension headaches: Often caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, creating a steady pressure around the head.
Cervicogenic headaches linked to the neck: Pain that starts in the neck due to joint or alignment issues and radiates into the head.
Cluster headaches: Severe headaches that occur in cycles and usually cause intense pain on one side of the head.
Sinus-related headaches: Head pain caused by sinus congestion or inflammation, often felt around the forehead, eyes, or cheeks.
Each type may have a different trigger and requires a specific approach.
How Do We Diagnose Headaches and Migraines
We start by evaluating the headache itself to identify the root cause. We check whether it is cervicogenic, meaning coming from the neck, or has occurred due to dehydration. We also assess whether it involves the nervous system and review the patient’s history, including any history of stroke.
From there, we perform neurological exams. If we identify that the headache is coming from the neck, we follow up with an X-ray. Usually, the upper cervical spine is affected, typically the first or second vertebrae.
What to Expect During Headache and Migraine Treatment
Chiropractic care has a long history of successfully treating headaches and migraines. Because the spine is directly connected to the nervous system, it is very often the source of the problem.
Treatment starts with a thorough evaluation to rule out other possible causes and examine the spine for misalignment. The assessment determines the exact type of treatment needed for the specific issue at the root of the pain.
Using gentle and non-invasive techniques, chiropractic adjustments address the cause of the headache or migraine rather than managing it on the surface level, which supports lasting results and improves quality of life. At California Oaks Chiropractic, the chiropractic adjustment is a big part of headache treatment.
If the headache is disc-related, we may perform decompression therapy. We also use massage therapy for muscles that may have an underlying role.
For patients with neck curvature changes, we focus on correcting that and ensuring proper spinal alignment. We manage inflammation with our traction table and also work the neck muscles.
For patients with conditions affecting the stability of the upper cervical spine, we focus on strengthening the neck ligaments and ensuring proper alignment. When required, we refer patients to a rheumatologist or neurologist and co-manage the condition with them.
Headache and Migraine Patient Case Study
Recovery From 30 Years of Undiagnosed Headaches
Patient Information: Elderly female patient, approximately 57 years old.
Symptoms: She had headaches for about 30 years. She had seen neurologists, primary care doctors, and acupuncture providers, and nobody could figure out the cause or give her a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis: After going through hours of history review, treatment evaluation, imaging, and all diagnostics, we found that the patient had EDS, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. This is a condition in which the ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues of the body are genetically more lax, stretchable, or loose than normal. As a result, the upper cervical spine was more likely to become unstable. The more it moved, the more it caused severe migraines.
Treatments: We referred her to a rheumatologist and to a neurologist, who co-managed her care with us. We focused on strengthening the neck ligaments and ensuring the upper cervical spine was properly aligned.
Outcome: After 30 years of headaches, she has been headache-free for about six months.
Headache and Migraine Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Jasmine K Saleh
I was in need of a serious adjustment & Dr. K and his staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. They took me in the same day I called, within 10 min I was booked and, in the office...
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Denise
Just WOW! Everyone at California Oaks Chiropractic in Murrieta was just professional and very nice. I felt immediately comfortable. Dr. K was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease...
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Abby Ngo
I had a great experience with Dr. K. This is top-notch chiropractic care! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, listened to, and well taken care of. Dr. K combines strong knowledge...
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Rick Scherer
My family and I have been seeing Dr. K for over 20 years, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family. The office staff is incredibly friendly...
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Sandra Guzman
If you are looking for a chiropractor with a lot of knowledge, friendly staff who feels like family, and an overall welcoming environment, this is your place! Dr. K has been vital in helping my husband and I...
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Lorretta Marcum
This morning I was lucky enough to see a Daphne! Oh my heavens do I feel 1000 x better!! Then I saw Dr. Chris for an adjustment and boy does he know his stuff got rid of my sciatica pain instantly...
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California Oaks Chiropractic has successfully treated many patients with headaches and migraines.
If headaches or migraines are interfering with your daily life, Dr. Phillip Vournazos, D.C., can help identify contributing factors and create a personalized care plan.
Call (951) 698-2511 or book online using the booking tool below.
Headache and Migraine Patient FAQs
Who is a good candidate for headache chiropractic care?
Adults with chronic or recurring headaches, desk workers, remote employees, athletes, active individuals, and people dealing with high stress are good candidates for headache chiropractic care.
Can a chiropractor really help migraines?
Chiropractic care may help reduce migraine frequency and intensity. It focuses on neck tension, joint restrictions, and posture. Care is personalized, non-surgical, and based on a detailed clinical evaluation.
How many sessions are needed for headache recovery?
The number of sessions varies based on symptom severity, frequency, and individual response. Some patients improve quickly, while others need ongoing care to address underlying movement issues.
Is chiropractic treatment safe for migraines?
Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by a licensed provider. Treatment is tailored to your condition, with a thorough evaluation to ensure it is appropriate.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
Most patients do not need a referral to see a chiropractor. You can schedule directly, and the chiropractor will assess your condition and recommend appropriate care options.
What are the preventive tips for migraines?
- Posture and Ergonomic Improvements: Keep screens at eye level, support the lower back, and avoid prolonged forward head posture.
- Lifestyle and Wellness Recommendations: Maintain regular sleep habits, manage stress, and stay physically active.
What are the home remedies for headaches & migraines?
At home, these strategies may help manage discomfort:
- Ice or gentle heat for neck tension
- Proper pillow support
- Staying hydrated
- Gentle stretching
- Limiting screen time
- Stress management techniques
Home care can support comfort, but does not replace proper evaluation.
What are the long-term effects of ignoring headaches and migraines?
Ignoring headaches can allow the underlying cause to go undiagnosed for years. One patient came to our clinic with a headache history of 30 years without a proper diagnosis. When upper cervical instability is left untreated, the spine continues to move and trigger more severe migraines over time. In the worst-case scenario, migraines can leave you unable to function.
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