In the third quarter issue of the Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal published on July 1, 2025, are the results of a case study showing chiropractic helping a patient with chronic headaches as well as producing improvements in energy and mental clarity.
The authors of this study begin by stating, "It has been well established in the literature that Chiropractic is indicated as an effective care modality for headache sufferers. It has also been well established that forward head posture (thoracic kyphosis) contributes to headaches." They also note that "While postural concerns have long been a focus of Chiropractors across the broad spectrum of techniques and practices, the neurological changes that occur when posture is compromised, and the impacts they may have not only on pain but on cognition and performance are yet to be explored." This study not only reports on the results with headaches, but also the positive effect chiropractic can have on mental functions.
In this case, a 30-year-old man who was suffering with headaches presented himself for chiropractic care. The man was an IT professional, which meant he spent a large amount of time in front of a computer screen. He reported that he had been suffering from intermittent headaches for approximately one year and they were getting worse.
The man reported that his headaches were worse in the morning or after he exercised. This was an issue for him as he was fairly active and had been a long-distance runner for years. He described the headaches as a dull and tight band around his head that he rated as 7 out of 10, with 10 being the worst possible pain. He also reported that his headaches were accompanied by blurred vision and an increased sensitivity to light. Additionally, the man also suffered from neck pain and poor posture.
A chiropractic examination including x-rays was performed and it was determined that subluxations were present. With this finding, a course of specific chiropractic care was started at the rate of three visits per week. In addition to the chiropractic, advice was given to the man on improvement in workstation ergonomics and correct pillow height while sleeping. He was advised not to change his exercise or workout routine to make it easier to determine if any changes were due to receiving chiropractic care. No additional exercises or recommendations were given.
A review was performed during the fourth week of chiropractic care. The review showed that the man's head and shoulder posture had improved. He reported that he was experiencing approximately a 90% improvement in the frequency of his headaches. He also noted that his energy levels had improved and that his mind felt "clearer and less fuzzy." He stated that he was sleeping better, and his overall well-being had improved.
A ten-week review continued to show measurable improved posture. The man reported that he was now 100% free of headaches. He said that the quality of his exercise and long-distance running had improved. He stated that for him, chiropractic care was life-changing and all conditions that he had sought chiropractic care for had improved.