The Holistic Health Center of Peoria provides tension headache relief at 4809 N. Sheridan Rd. in Peoria, IL. Dr. Nicole Lackner, D.C., uses Gonstead cervical adjustments and myoVision scans to correct neck misalignment and muscle tension that contribute to tension headaches. Serving Peoria, Dunlap, East Peoria, and Peoria Heights. Call (309) 685-5777.
What Causes Tension Headaches?
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. They occur when the muscles in your neck, shoulders, and scalp become tight and refer pain upward into your head.
The root cause is often cervical spinal misalignment. When vertebrae in your neck are restricted or out of position, the surrounding muscles stay in a constant state of guard and tension.
Poor posture (especially from screens), stress, jaw clenching, and prolonged sitting all compound the problem by keeping those muscles engaged for hours at a time.
How Chiropractic Care May Help Tension Headaches
Dr. Lackner uses Gonstead analysis and myoVision scans to identify which cervical joints are restricted and which muscles are under chronic tension.
Gentle cervical adjustments restore proper joint motion, which allows the surrounding muscles to relax naturally — rather than staying locked in a protective spasm.
Many patients experience fewer and less intense tension headaches as their neck alignment improves, often within the first few visits.
When to See Emergency Medical Services First
While conservative chiropractic care helps most non-surgical structural issues, please seek emergency medical evaluation immediately if you experience:
- •Sudden, severe headache that peaks within seconds
- •Headache with fever, stiff neck, or rash
- •Headache following a head injury or fall
- •New or different headache pattern, especially after age 50
Treatment Options Compared
| Approach | Chiropractic Alignment | Physical Therapy | Medication / Injections | Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Method | Gonstead cervical adjustments & myoVision scans | Neck & shoulder stretching | Over-the-counter painkillers | Not applicable for tension headaches |
| Addresses Root Cause | Yes — corrects cervical misalignment | Partially — relieves muscle tension | No — masks pain signals | N/A |
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive & gentle | Non-invasive | Chemical | N/A |
| Long-Term Outcome | May reduce frequency & intensity | Improves muscle flexibility | Temporary relief (hours) | N/A |
Dr. Nicole Lackner, D.C.
Palmer College of Chiropractic (2000) · Gonstead, Webster, and C.A.T.S. Certified
Serving Peoria families since 2001. Dr. Lackner provides Gonstead adjustments, pediatric milestone care, and prenatal care.
What Peoria Patients Say
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic care help tension headaches?
Yes. Tension headaches are often caused by cervical misalignment and muscle tension. Gentle Gonstead adjustments restore proper neck motion, which allows the muscles to relax and may reduce headache frequency.
How is a tension headache different from a migraine?
Tension headaches typically feel like a tight band of pressure around your head, while migraines involve throbbing pain, often with nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. Both can have a cervical component.
How quickly will I see relief from tension headaches?
Many patients notice fewer headaches within 2 to 4 visits. Long-term relief depends on maintaining neck alignment and improving posture habits.
Will I need to stop taking pain medication?
No. Chiropractic care is complementary. Dr. Lackner never advises stopping medication without consulting your physician. Many patients find they need less medication as their care progresses.