Headaches after intense physical activity are a common complaint among athletes, exercise enthusiasts, and even those who are relatively inactive. The cause of these headaches can be difficult to pinpoint due to the many possible underlying causes. And unfortunately, this makes it harder to cope with the attacks.
As your dedicated chiropractic doctor in Indianapolis, we thought of tackling this common yet often overlooked type of headache. Additionally, we outlined a couple of things you should know about work-out related headaches like your best options for relief and the role of your Upper Cervical doctor in improving your symptoms and overall quality of life.
As we’ve mentioned earlier, a lot of things can set-off post-exertional headaches. Some examples of these include dehydration, muscle tension in the neck, medication intake, poor nutrition, and stress. Let’s take a closer look at these below:
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Dehydration is one of the most common causes of post-exercise headaches. Intense physical activity can cause an increase in the body's sweat rate, which can lead to water loss and subsequent dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, fluid shifts in the brain can lead to headaches. As such, it is important to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after physical activity to prevent dehydration-related headaches.
When the muscles are worked hard, lactic acid can build up and cause tension in the muscles and neck, which can lead to headaches. Stretching before and after exercise can help to reduce muscle tension and prevent headaches.
Certain medications can also cause headaches after intense physical activity. Certain cold and sinus medications can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can lead to headaches. Pain medications can also lead to headaches due to their vasodilatory effects.
Poor nutrition can also be a cause of post-exercise headaches. When the body does not receive the nutrients it needs, it can lead to the release of hormones in the brain that can cause headaches. Eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise can help to prevent headaches caused by poor nutrition.
Finally, stress can also be a cause of post-exercise headaches. When the body is under physical and psychological stress, it can lead to an increase in cortisol, a hormone that can cause headaches. Reducing stress and taking breaks during physical activity can help to reduce the risk of headaches.
Upper Cervical Care is a specialized form of chiropractic that focuses on the uppermost part of the spine, where the skull and neck meet. This area is particularly important because it houses the brainstem, which controls many of the body's vital functions. Misalignments in this area can interfere with the brainstem's function, leading to a range of health issues, including exercise headaches.
By addressing these misalignments, Upper Cervical Care can help alleviate exercise headaches and prevent them from recurring. This is accomplished through gentle adjustments to the upper cervical spine, which aim to restore proper alignment and function. These adjustments are precise and tailored to each individual's unique needs, making them safe and effective for people of all ages and fitness levels.
In addition to relieving exercise headaches, Upper Cervical Care can also improve overall health and wellness. Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can contribute to a range of health issues, including migraines, vertigo, and even digestive problems. By addressing these misalignments, Upper Cervical Care can help improve nerve function and reduce inflammation throughout the body, leading to better health and vitality.
If you're struggling with exercise headaches or other health issues, Upper Cervical Care may be the solution you've been looking for. With its gentle and precise approach, this form of chiropractic can help restore proper alignment to the upper cervical spine, improving nerve function and reducing inflammation throughout the body. This can lead to better health and wellness, allowing you to live your life to the fullest.
If you're ready to take control of your health and live without the pain of exercise headaches, consider giving Upper Cervical Care a try. Contact us today to book your consultation.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Flory, call our Carmel office at 463-223-8227. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
