This October, during National Chiropractic Month, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) is encouraging families to consider chiropractic care as a treatment for several types of headaches.

While many people associate chiropractic care as a treatment for bad backs, there is growing documentation that chiropractic is also effective in the treatment of cervicogenic (neck disorders) headaches, migraines and cluster headaches.

"Research shows that spinal manipulation is an effective treatment option for headaches," said Dr. Landin Marzolf of Care Chiropractic Center in Bainbridge, Ga. "Not only does drug-free, conservative chiropractic care provide almost immediate relief from pain, but it has significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief than many commonly prescribed medications."

Additionally, doctors of chiropractic are trained to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises, as well as to provide nutritional, dietary and lifestyle counseling—all of which are important components in the management of chronic headache pain.

If you frequently suffer from headaches, Dr. Marzolf and ACA recommend the following tips.

• If you spend a large amount of time in one fixed position, such as in front of a computer, take a break and stretch every 30 minutes to one hour.

• Low-impact exercise may help relieve the pain associated with primary headaches.

• Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to help avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches.

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