Pain Relief Chiropractic

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. People often
describe it as ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming in one or both ears. While tinnitus is
frequently associated with hearing-related conditions, not all tinnitus originates solely from
the auditory system. A form known as somatic tinnitus is influenced by musculoskeletal
factors beyond the ear, particularly the neck and jaw.
Some individuals notice that the volume or pitch of their tinnitus changes when they
clench their jaw, turn their head, or apply pressure to muscles in the face or neck. Others find
that their tinnitus becomes more noticeable during episodes of neck pain, jaw discomfort, or
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) flare-ups. The ability to modify the sound through
movement is considered one of the strongest indicators that musculoskeletal factors may be
involved.
Researchers believe this connection exists because nerves from the neck, jaw, and
face communicate with areas of the brain that help process sound. One of these regions,
called the dorsal cochlear nucleus, receives information from both the auditory system and
nearby sensory structures. When abnormal signals arise from irritated joints, tight muscles,
or dysfunctional movement patterns, they may influence how sound is perceived. Common
contributors to somatic tinnitus include TMJ dysfunction, cervical spine dysfunction,
whiplash injuries, forward-head posture, teeth grinding, and chronic muscle tension in the
neck and shoulders.
Presently, there is no widely adopted, standalone international treatment guideline
specifically for somatic tinnitus. However, expert reviews, consensus papers, and tinnitus
guidelines generally recommend a thorough examination of the neck, jaw, posture, and
surrounding muscles. If potential musculoskeletal factors are identified, a course of treatment
to resolve these issues is advised to see if tinnitus symptoms are reduced or resolved.
Chiropractors are trained to evaluate musculoskeletal conditions, identify findings
that may require referral, and provide conservative care for disorders affecting the spine and
related structures. For patients whose tinnitus changes with jaw movement, neck movement,
posture, or muscle tension, a chiropractic evaluation may help determine whether a
musculoskeletal component is contributing to their symptoms and whether conservative care
is appropriate as part of a broader management plan.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

Tags: neck pain, headaches, pain relief, mechanicsburg pa chiropractor

Headaches are among the most common physical ailments worldwide, with about half of
adults experiencing at least one episode each year and roughly 1 in 6 reporting a headache on
any given day. Fortunately, for most people, headaches are not a persistent issue but instead
occur episodically—that is, they arise for a short period of time and then resolve. In broad terms,
three major contributors to episodic headaches include dehydration, stress, and muscle tension.
Dehydration is a condition in which the body does not have enough fluids to support
normal physiological functions. This can lead to reduced blood volume, slowing the delivery of
oxygen to tissues and the removal of cellular waste. It can also disrupt electrolyte balance, affect
nerve signaling and muscle function, impair temperature regulation, and alter brain function.
Together, these changes can contribute to the development of a headache that may persist until
hydration is restored. To reduce the likelihood of dehydration-related headaches, drink water
consistently throughout the day and limit excessive caffeine intake. It’s also important not to rely
solely on thirst as a signal, as mild dehydration may already be present by the time thirst
develops.
Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, increasing cortisol levels and causing
muscles to tighten in preparation for potential injury. While this response is helpful in short-term
emergencies, ongoing stress in daily life can lead to increased pain sensitivity and sustained
muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, and scalp. This combination can create the conditions for
tension-type headaches. Managing stress through regular physical activity, taking breaks during
the day, and practicing relaxation techniques such as controlled breathing or meditation may help
keep these headaches at bay.
Muscle tension headaches are frequently associated with poor posture, particularly
forward head posture, which places additional strain on the muscles and joints of the neck and
upper back. This is especially common among individuals who spend long periods working at
desks or using phones and tablets. Over time, this strain can lead to tightness and discomfort that
radiates into the head. Maintaining proper posture, positioning screens at eye level, and taking
regular breaks to stretch and move can help minimize this type of headache.
If these strategies do not reduce the frequency, duration, or intensity of headaches, it may
be appropriate to consult a healthcare provider, including a doctor of chiropractic. A thorough
review of medical history and current symptoms, along with a physical examination, can help
identify underlying musculoskeletal factors that may be contributing to recurring headaches.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

Tags: headaches, mechanicsburg pa chiropractor, neck pain, pain relief

Statistically, up to 20% of adults experience frequent headaches, with approximately 1–
4% reporting headaches on more than 15 days per month. While there are many types of
headaches—and within each subtype, multiple underlying causes and triggers—research
suggests that musculoskeletal factors can contribute to certain headache presentations. What
would a doctor of chiropractic look for during the initial visits to determine whether a course of
chiropractic care could benefit the headache sufferer?
The first step is to take a patient history that explores past and present health, as well as
details specific to the chief complaint—headaches, in this case. The responses help determine
whether the headache pattern is consistent with musculoskeletal referral from the neck or
surrounding tissues. Important clues include band-like pressure around the head; pain that begins
in the neck or base of the skull and may spread to the temples, forehead, or behind the eyes;
headaches triggered by prolonged computer work, poor posture, neck movement, stress, or jaw
clenching; pain that worsens after desk work or driving; improvement with massage, stretching,
or heat; and co-occurring neck stiffness or shoulder tightness.
If the patient presents with red flags—such as a new type of headache after age 50, the
worst headache of their life, recent head trauma, signs of infection (e.g., fever), or neurological
symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or vision changes—they may be referred for urgent
medical evaluation.
The history guides the physical examination, during which the chiropractor assesses
range of motion of the cervical spine—particularly the upper cervical segments—for restrictions,
asymmetries, or reproduction of symptoms. They will also palpate soft tissues in the head and
neck, including the suboccipital muscles, upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, temporalis,
masseter, and levator scapulae, to identify tenderness or trigger points and determine whether
these reproduce the patient’s headache. Orthopedic testing and postural assessment further help
identify musculoskeletal contributors.
The specific treatment approach varies by patient, but generally involves conservative
therapies aimed at restoring joint mobility and reducing muscle tension. This may include spinal
manipulation or mobilization, soft tissue therapy, trigger point techniques, physiotherapy
modalities, targeted exercises, and postural education. If a musculoskeletal disorder is a primary
contributor—as is often the case in tension-type or cervicogenic headaches—patients may
experience significant improvement or resolution. For other headache types, such as migraines,
care may help reduce the frequency, intensity, and duration of episodes.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

Tags: headaches, mechanicsburg pa chiropractor, neck pain, pain relief