Headaches and migraines are common but not “normal.” They’re often the body’s way of signaling irritation or overload. Triggers can be structural (neck and upper-back joint dysfunction), muscular (tight suboccipitals, traps, SCM), neurologic sensitivity, or lifestyle-related (screen time, dehydration, sleep changes, foods, stress).
Common contributors we evaluate:
Cervical spine joint restrictions and posture strain (tech neck)
Muscle tension and trigger points in the neck, jaw, and shoulders
Prior injuries (whiplash, falls, sports impacts)
Habits: workstation ergonomics, phone use, sleep position
Diet and hydration patterns; caffeine fluctuations
Hormonal and environmental triggers (light, odors, weather)
Our goal at Fitterer Chiropractic is to identify your personal pattern, not just the pain, then craft a plan that targets the root causes.
Tension-type headaches: band-like pressure, often from muscle tension/posture
Cervicogenic headaches: start in the neck and refer behind the eyes/temples
Migraine (with/without aura): throbbing pain, light/sound sensitivity, nausea
TMJ-related headaches: jaw clenching/grinding driving temple and ear pain
Post-traumatic headaches: after concussion or whiplash
Note: Some symptoms can overlap. Your exam helps determine the most likely sources.
Chiropractic care is a non-drug, conservative approach that aims to reduce the mechanical and neuromuscular drivers of headaches.
Our typical approach includes:
Thorough Evaluation
History, posture analysis, cervical mobility testing, neurologic/orthopedic screens, and review of prior imaging when available.
Gentle, Targeted Adjustments
Restores normal motion in the cervical and upper-thoracic joints to reduce nerve and muscle irritation.
Soft-Tissue & Myofascial Work
Focus on suboccipitals, levator scapulae, upper trapezius, temporalis/masseter (as appropriate), and trigger point release.
Corrective Exercise & Mobility
Chin tucks, deep neck flexor activation, scapular stabilization, thoracic mobility, and jaw/diaphragm relaxation strategies.
Ergonomics & Lifestyle Coaching
Screen position, chair/desk setup, sleep ergonomics, hydration, meal timing, and simple “micro-break” routines.
Supportive Therapies (as needed)
Decompression/traction (for disc-related neck issues), heat/ice strategies, and referral coordination when appropriate.
Personalized plan: Frequency and techniques are matched to your presentation and comfort.
Steady progress: Many patients notice decreased muscle tension and fewer triggers in the first phase of care; we reassess regularly.
Prevention mindset: As episodes reduce, we shift toward spacing visits, home care mastery, and long-term management.
The 20-2 Rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, spend ~2 minutes standing, breathing, and moving your neck/upper back.
Neck/Upper-Back Mobility: Gentle chin tucks, thoracic extensions over a towel roll, doorway pec stretch (2–3x/day).
Hydration & Regular Meals: Avoid big caffeine swings; support stable blood sugar.
Sleep Setup: Neutral pillow height, side or back sleeping; avoid stomach sleeping.
Trigger Log: Track foods, sleep, stress, cycle changes, and weather to spot patterns.
Local experience you can trust: Caring for individuals and families in Palmyra, Annville, and Hershey with a patient-first approach.
Whole-person focus: We look beyond pain to posture, habits, stressors, sleep, and movement.
Gentle, precise care: Techniques are customized to your comfort and goals.
Clear communication: You’ll understand your plan, your progress, and how to keep improvements going.
Convenient, friendly care team: Easy scheduling and a supportive staff.
Will adjustments help migraines or only tension headaches?
Adjustments can help both when neck or posture components are part of the trigger pattern. Your exam clarifies whether you’re likely to benefit.
How many visits will I need?
Plans vary by history, severity, and goals. We reassess frequently and taper visits as your episodes and intensity decrease.
What if I’m sensitive to forceful techniques?
We use gentle, low-amplitude options and can modify everything, from tables to tools, to match your tolerance.
Do you work with my medical provider?
Yes. When needed, we coordinate with your PCP, neurologist, dentist/TMJ specialist, PT, or nutrition professional.
When you visit our chiropractic facility in Palmyra, PA, Dr. Dennis Fitterer will take the time to examine you, identify your headache or migraine drivers, and design a plan to relieve pain—and help keep it from returning.
Call us at 717-838-2071 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
I have been a patient of chiropractic for over 40 years. When I was moving to Palmyra four years ago, my chiropractor in New York recommended me to Dr. Fitterer. The care and treatment I have received from Dr Fitterer has been superlative. In addition, the vitamin regimen he has put me on has given me better health. The people in Dr Fitterer’s are warm, caring and welcoming. I recommend Dr Fitterer without reservation.
