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Ilan Burstein, DCChiropractor · Stamford, CT
Condition

Headache & migraine relief in Stamford, CT

When a headache hits, work and plans stop. If you're taking pain relievers several times a week, it's time to look at what's setting them off. Many recurring headaches are connected to the neck and to muscle tension, and those often respond well to hands-on care.

  • Starts at base of skull
  • Band around the head
  • Several per week
Where it's felt: Head and upper neck

Does this sound like you?

Tension and neck-related headaches often feel like this:

  • Pressure or a tight band around your head
  • Pain that starts at the base of the skull and moves forward
  • Headaches that come with neck stiffness
  • Throbbing pain on one side, sometimes with light sensitivity
  • Headaches that build through the workday
  • Jaw clenching or tension in the temples
Practitioner gently supporting the neck and base of the skull of a relaxed patient

What's actually going on

Tension-type headaches, the most common kind, are linked to tight muscles in the neck, shoulders and scalp. Cervicogenic headaches come directly from the joints of the upper neck. Both are often driven by posture, stress, poor sleep and dehydration.

Migraines are a neurological condition with their own triggers. Chiropractic care doesn't replace medical care for migraines, but some patients find that treating neck and muscle tension makes attacks easier to manage.

When to see a medical doctor first

Call 911 or go to the ER now if you have:

  • The worst headache of your life, or one that hits suddenly like a thunderclap
  • A headache after a head injury
  • Headache with fever and a stiff neck
  • Weakness, numbness, confusion or trouble speaking

See your doctor within a day or two if you have:

  • New headaches that start after age 50
  • A clear change in your usual headache pattern

The first group needs emergency care right away. The second needs a check with your doctor soon.

How Dr. Burstein treats headaches & migraines

Treatment depends on the type of headache. For tension and neck-related headaches it usually combines:

What recovery usually looks like

  1. First visits Identifying your headache type and triggers, and treating the neck and muscles involved.
  2. Weeks 2–6 Many patients notice fewer or milder headaches.
  3. Ongoing A plan to keep frequency down, including what to do when one starts.

A simple headache diary helps you and Dr. Burstein see what's changing from week to week.

What you can do today

  • Keep a simple headache diary: time, food, sleep, stress.
  • Drink water steadily through the day.
  • Take screen breaks and check your posture every hour.
  • Keep consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends.

Common questions

Can a chiropractor help with headaches?

For tension-type and neck-related (cervicogenic) headaches, often yes. Treatment focuses on the neck joints and muscles that refer pain into the head. Dr. Burstein will also screen for headache types that need medical care.

Should I stop my migraine medication?

No. Don't change any prescribed medication without talking to the doctor who prescribed it. Chiropractic care is used alongside your medical care.

Get your headaches checked

Early-morning and after-hours visits. No referral needed.

Book a visit or call (203) 325-8112
Book an evaluation

Let's find out what's behind your headaches

Tell us a little about what's going on. The office will call you back to find a time, and can look up your insurance benefits before you come in.

  • A call back from the office to set a time
  • Help looking up your insurance benefits
  • A complimentary first evaluation for new patients
Prefer to pick a time yourself?