HEADACHE

    In a recent study, patients suffering from tension headache for three months or more were divided into two groups.¹ One group received antidepressant drugs. The other group received chiropractic adjustments. During the six week therapeutic trial, both groups reported headache relief, although the drug therapy group reported such side effects as dryness of the mouth, drowsiness and weight gain.

    The real advantage of chiropractic care became apparent during the four week follow-up period after the interventions were stopped. The patients in the drug therapy group returned to their previous levels of headache suffering. For the chiropractic group, headache relief continued, even after the adjustments were discontinued. The chiropractic group also reported higher levels of energy and vitality than the drug therapy group.

    In summary, chiropractic care provided longer-lasting relief, with fewer side effects and enhanced vitality.

¹ Boline PD, Kassak K, Bronfort G, Nelson C, Anderson AV. Spinal Manipulation vs. Amitriptyline for the Treatment of Chronic Tension-Type Headaches: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 1995; 18: 148-154

© 1996, All Rights Reserved.
Marion Todres, M.A., D.C. and Charles Masarsky, D.C.