Headaches Treatment in Chicago
Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC, a leading chiropractor in Chicago, has treated hundreds of patients suffering from recurring headaches and migraines. These conditions can interfere with work, sleep, and daily life, especially when they return frequently or become more intense over time.
Headaches and migraines often develop due to tension, posture issues, or spinal misalignment rather than a single trigger. At Chiropractic Chicago, we focus on identifying what is causing the problem, not just managing the pain.
Our approach is gentle and precise. Each treatment plan is designed to improve spinal function, reduce tension, and support the nervous system naturally.
Common Causes of Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines often result from a combination of physical and lifestyle factors, including:
- Neck pain treatment addresses neck misalignment and spinal tension
- Poor posture and desk related strain
- Muscle tightness in the shoulders and neck can be addressed with massage therapy
- Stress and emotional strain
- Poor sleep habits
- Dehydration
Identifying these contributors is essential for lasting relief.
What to Expect During Headache Treatment
Your care begins with a detailed consultation to discuss your headache or migraine history, including frequency, triggers, and how symptoms affect daily life.
Dr. Grossman performs a focused physical examination to evaluate posture, spinal movement, and areas of tension in the neck and upper back. Once findings are reviewed, a personalized care plan is created to address contributing factors such as spinal restriction or muscle imbalance.
Treatment is gentle and tailored to your comfort level, with clear explanations provided at each step so you understand the goals and expectations of care.
Headache and Migraine Patient Case Study
Patient Info: An adult female in her mid 40s came to the clinic seeking care for ongoing migraine headaches. The migraines had become frequent enough to disrupt her daily routine and relationships.
Symptoms: She had recurring migraines with intense head pain and sensitivity that made it difficult to focus and function normally. Episodes occurred regularly and were intensifying.
Root Cause Analysis: Evaluation suggested that irritation and restricted movement in the cervical spine may have been contributing to the migraines. Neck tension and spinal misalignment can place stress on nerves linked to headache and migraine symptoms.
Treatment Plan: We performed cervical spine adjustments to reduce nerve irritation that can contribute to migraine symptoms. Supportive guidance was provided to help manage posture, tension headaches, and lifestyle factors that can trigger migraines.
Outcome: As care progressed, the patient noticed a significant reduction in migraine frequency and intensity. Migraine episodes became less frequent, allowing for improved daily comfort and function.
Patient Feedback: The patient shared that migraines improved more than expected and became easier to manage. They felt encouraged by the progress and relieved to experience consistent relief through chiropractic care.
Migraine Patient Testimonials & Reviews





Doctor Experience in Treating Headache and Migraine
Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC has extensive experience helping patients in Chicago manage headaches and migraines through a chiropractic, root-cause approach. Rather than focusing only on symptoms, she evaluates spinal alignment, especially in the upper cervical region, where nerve irritation commonly contributes to headache and migraine patterns.
At Chiropractic Chicago, care is gentle, individualized, and guided by thorough exams and imaging when needed. Dr. Grossman takes time to clearly explain what’s contributing to a patient’s migraines and walks them through each step of care, so they feel informed, supported, and confident in their treatment plan.
Book An Appointment
If headaches or migraines are interfering with your daily life, Dr. Elissa Grossman, DC can help identify contributing factors and create a personalized care plan. Call (312) 248-3002 or Book Online using the booking tool below:
Migraine Patient FAQs
Who Is a Good Candidate for Headache Chiropractic Care?
- Adults with chronic or recurring headaches
- Desk workers and remote employees
- Athletes and active individuals
- High stress individuals
Can a chiropractor really help migraines?
Chiropractic care can help when migraines are related to spinal tension or nerve irritation.
How many sessions are needed for headache relief?
The number of visits varies based on severity, frequency, and response to care.
Is chiropractic treatment safe for migraines?
Yes. Care is gentle and adapted to individual needs.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No referral is required in most cases.
Headache Prevention Tips From a Chiropractor
Posture and Ergonomic Improvements
- Keep screens at eye level
- Support the lower back
- Avoid prolonged forward head posture
Lifestyle and Wellness Recommendations
- Maintain regular sleep habits
- Manage stress
- Stay physically active
Home remedies for Headaches or Migraines Treatment
At home strategies may help manage discomfort:
- Ice or gentle heat for neck tension
- Proper pillow support
- Staying hydrated
- Gentle stretching
- Limiting screen time
- Stress management techniques
Home care can support comfort but does not replace proper evaluation.
Long Term Effects of Ignoring Headaches or Migraines Treatment
Without treatment, headaches and migraines may become more frequent or severe. Long term effects may include:
- Chronic pain patterns
- Increased medication dependence
- Reduced quality of life
- Neck and spinal degeneration
- Ongoing nervous system stress
Early care helps reduce long term complications.
What Are Headaches and Migraines?
Headaches typically cause mild to moderate pain and may feel like pressure or tightness around the head or neck.
Migraines are usually more intense and may include:
- Throbbing or pulsing pain
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Nausea
- Visual disturbances
Understanding the difference helps guide proper treatment.
Difference Between Headaches and Migraines
Headaches are commonly caused by everyday factors such as stress, poor posture, muscle tension, or lack of sleep. They usually respond well to rest, hydration, or simple care and rarely disrupt normal routines for long.
Migraines, however, are a complex neurological condition. They tend to occur in recurring episodes, can be triggered by hormonal changes, certain foods, or environmental factors, and often worsen with movement. Because migraines are more persistent and disabling, they typically require a comprehensive, personalized treatment approach rather than short-term relief alone.
Common Types of Headaches
Some of the most common headache types include:
- Tension headaches: Often caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, creating a steady pressure around the head.
- Cervicogenic headaches linked to the neck: Pain that starts in the neck due to joint or alignment issues and radiates into the head.
- Cluster headaches: Severe headaches that occur in cycles and usually cause intense pain on one side of the head.
- Sinus related headaches: Head pain caused by sinus congestion or inflammation, often felt around the forehead, eyes, or cheeks.
Each type may have a different trigger and requires a specific approach.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Headaches & Migraines
Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal function and reducing tension that can contribute to headaches and migraines.
- Non invasive and natural approach
- Targets the underlying cause rather than only symptoms
- Reduces neck and upper back tension
- Improves spinal alignment and mobility
- Supports healthy nervous system function
- Helps reduce headache and migraine frequency
- Decreases intensity and duration of episodes
- Encourages long term prevention and overall wellness
Many patients report improved posture awareness and better day to day comfort as care progresses.