You regularly suffer from headaches and migraines!
In the case of migraines and headaches, chiropractic is a gentle and natural approach, with an emphasis on the spine and its supporting structures. The doctor of chiropractic can safely and effectively relieve pain by restoring alignment and proper functioning of the spine, which has the effect of relieving pressure on the delicate structures at the base of the skull.
Pain may appear spontaneously
Migraines are recurrent, that is, they occur repeatedly, without being expected. Some people have a few episodes a year, others have several every week.
Chiropractic can be very effective in treating migraines and headaches
Chiropractic is a gentle and natural approach, with an emphasis on manual treatments, including spinal and joint manipulations. The doctor of chiropractic can relieve pain effectively and safely, restoring proper vertebral and joint function, which removes pressure and irritation from the nervous system.
Learn more…
Dr. André Gagnon chiropractor
Of sensitive temperament and naturally turned towards others, Dr. André Gagnon, chiropractor, has applied himself for nearly 20 years to serve his patients with the rigor and energy that characterize him. A very welcoming personality, he never misses the opportunity to add a touch of humor, in order to lightening the atmosphere in order to better help his patients through more difficult periods. Through his care, he helped relieve many people struggling with chronic pain, allowing them to lead the active lives they wanted.
- Graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1996
- Member of the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec OCQ
- Member of the Association des chiropraticiens du Québec ACQ
- Member of the VAC Chiropractors Association of Canada
CAUSES OF MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES
Triggers
Several factors can trigger migraines and headaches. As you know, the causes vary from various states of stress creating muscle tensions, poor posture, or ergonomics at work to hormonal issues and medical conditions. One often overlooked cause are trauma and misalignments of the neck, as this causes undue pressure on the delicate structures at the base of the skull. That’s where the chiropractic approach is of importance in detecting and resolving issues that might occur at this level. At the clinic, we offer a gentle approach to detect and resolve such issues.
Office work
Headaches of cervical origin are developing more and more in office workers. Poor ergonomics, poor posture or sitting for prolonged periods of time are important risk factors that can lead to headaches.
Using tablets and phones
Users of tablets or mobile phones are also affected by this problem because of their posture when using these devices. Prolonged neck flexion causes pressure on the neck that can cause headaches. This can also happen in some readers.
Psychological stress
Cervicogenic headache is common to people who are stressed or anxious. Muscle tension, mainly located in the neck, and clenching your teeth are all factors that can contribute to headaches of cervical origin.
The nervous system is subjected to severe strain during periods of stress. Its role is to control all the muscles of the human body, manage sensory information and regulate the functioning of organs.
Treatments for migraine
After a comprehensive history during your first appointment, we will have a more precise idea of the type of examination necessary to evaluate your condition and overall health. This is the first step towards establishing the treatment that is right for you. There are no generic treatments that work for every person, so every treatment plan and course of action, is tailored specifically to you. The primary objective is obviously to relieve pain so you can resume a normal life, then its all about helping you develop the good habits and lifestyle changes to keep you that way.
Without the proper treatment, migraines and headaches can be quite a burden in one’s life, fortunately, with the proper treatment including chiropractic care there is hope of leading a productive, happy, pain free life.
By removing pressure and tension on the delicate structures at the base of the skull and restoring proper alignment of the neck, chiropractors, through gentle procedures mainly applied with the hands or instruments, help in resolving the pain and restoring heath to that injured area of you spine.
Chiropractors have an extensive, comprehensive academic and clinical training to ensure that you receive the best quality of care in their offices.
Assessment of a patient’s health during the first clinical interview.
Treatment and care for headaches and migraines.
Our care
Following a conscientious interview, during your first visit, the chiropractor has a more precise idea of the examinations necessary to establish his diagnosis.
Once it is established that chiropractic care will be beneficial for you, our first goal is to relieve pain. Subsequently, the care will be adjusted according to your progress and your specific needs. Sometimes close collaboration with the doctor or other professional will be necessary.
In general, chiropractic care is very effective for the relief of migraines and for several other types of headaches. With proper care and some lifestyle changes, you will be able to resume your normal activities, return to work and enjoy life. As with many health problems, the longer you wait before consulting, the more entrenched the problem becomes.
The chiropractic approach aims to restore the more harmonious alignment and movement of the spine by gentle, precise and effective means, in order to relieve pressure and tension on the delicate structures at the base of the skull.
Other care available at our clinic
Pain
Low back pain can be of various origins. Sometimes it is due to a simple muscle imbalance, other times caused by a damaged or unbalanced framework.
Neck pain Torticollis
When the neck is not properly aligned because of a fall or poor posture, the misaligned vertebrae exert pressure at the base of the skull and cause pain.
Osteoarthritis and arthritis
At the clinic we offer a gentle, precise and effective approach that, in many cases, will offer you the relief you are looking for.
Headaches and migraines
Migraine and headaches have several causes. Some are persistent, others recurrent and of varying intensity. It is important to consider all the causes.
Your first visit to our clinic
On your first visit, you will have the opportunity to discuss your health problem and the strategies most likely to help you.
Together, we will go through the problem and your background so that we have a clear idea of the nature of your problem and the right steps to take.
Then you will benefit from chiropractic treatments that will help you regain your health.
An analysis of your posture
An orthopedic and neurological evaluation
An assessment of the joint movements of your spine or other joints to identify any joint mobility problems
Chiropractic treatment
The vertebral examination is usually done in a sitting or lying position on a treatment table, and includes a careful visual examination of the problem area that involves direct contact with the skin of that area.
If chiropractic can help, the chiropractor recommends a care program tailored to your condition and wellness goals. He takes the time to introduce you to the chiropractic approach to better inform you about its mode of action and how it can help you.
Before proceeding with the proposed examination and treatment, the chiropractor must obtain your written, free and informed consent, after informing you of the nature of the problem to be treated, the procedure for treatment of its potential benefits and its risks.
Testimonials
What people think
I had migraines for several years and from the first treatments I felt a clear improvement. Now I only need a few annual visits for prevention.
Michel Angers
André Gagnon offers effective and affordable treatments. I had back pain problems that ruined my life for several years. Fortunately, chiropractic treatments have changed my life.
Chantal Roy
I never thought that a chiropractor’s treatments could give such good results. Thanks to André Gagnon I finally managed to get rid of my headaches that came back regularly.
Nathalie Champoux
I have known André Gagnon for several years and I am very grateful for the help he has given me to have better health. My joint problems disappeared and I found the joy of life.
Gerard Bricault
Rediscover the joy of life thanks to our chiropractic treatments
After more than 25 years of practice, we know how effective chiropractic is in correcting health problems related to the vertebral colon.
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FAQ
Questions and Answers
Are chiropractic treatments painful?
Chiropractic adjustment is not painful. The treatment methods we use take into account the severity of inflammation and spasm. If the patient is in an acute phase (a lot of inflammation as a result of an accident), the pressure on a tense muscle can be painful. Occasionally, others will feel a little stiffness in the evening or the day after the first visit. Often people tell us that they felt a sense of well-being from the first hours after the first visit.
How long does a full treatment take?
Each person reacts differently to chiropractic treatments. The chiropractor adjusts the frequency of treatments according to the evolution of the health condition of each patient. At first visits are more frequent in order to relieve the pain and correct the problem. Subsequently, the treatments will be distanced and will be used for maintenance or prevention. Maintenance or preventive care can reduce the negative effects of stress on a daily basis and maintain an active life for a long time.
Why do we need several treatments to correct vertebral subluxations?
In cases where the body has taken years to degrade, the return to health requires a little time and care. Muscles and ligaments heal at a certain rate, depending on age and health status. For more acute cases, it is necessary to work at the level of stability, joint and inflammation present. Subsequently, in both cases, we move on to rehabilitation, to bring back the stability and harmony of the body.
Muscles and ligaments, being used to working in a certain way, will tend to return the vertebrae to their original position. Therefore, the repetition of treatments will stimulate and accustom the muscles and ligaments to perform their tasks more adequately. This is how over time we will be able to reduce the frequency of adjustments.
Is chiropractic safe?
Yes. Chiropractic is recognized as a safe and effective treatment. There is evidence to support both the effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care. Often, people feel immediate relief after treatment, but some may experience stiffness and even a little swelling. But these effects are minor and short-lived. Before treatment, the chiropractor must ensure that the patient is well informed before consenting to the recommended treatments. Patients are always encouraged to ask questions. Thus, if there are contraindications, the chiropractor will recommend the patient to another health professional.
Are CSST and SAAQ cases accepted?
Yes. Chiropractors are able to treat patients following a workplace accident or a traffic accident. For reimbursement of care by these two companies, chiropractic treatments must be prescribed by a doctor.
Does insurance reimburse chiropractic care?
Yes. The majority of private insurances reimburse chiropractic care, depending on your policy. The Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) does not loosen this type of care.
Can I continue to train during treatment?
Yes. You can, unless you suffer from severe pain. Continuing your regular activities can even be beneficial. However, you must remain attentive to your body and follow the recommendations of your chiropractor, so as not to worsen the injury.
Do I need to be referred by a family doctor to see a chiropractor?
No. Chiropractors are regulated as primary care professionals in every Canadian province, which means that patients can see a chiropractor without being referred by a physician. A chiropractor is a primary care professional who is responsible by law for making a chiropractic diagnosis, establishing a prognosis, and establishing the nature and frequency of his or her examinations and treatments. You can therefore consult it without being referred by another health professional. When it comes to reimbursement of care by an insurance company, some companies require a medical prescription to make the reimbursement, and others do not. With regard to chiropractic care coverage for work-related accidents and road accidents, the CSST and the SAAQ request a medical prescription.
Is there an age limit for treatment?
No. There is no age limit. Many people maintain an excellent quality of life over the years, staying active and eating a healthy and balanced diet. Chiropractic care can often offer seniors less pain and more freedom of movement, without adding to the list of medications!
What if treatments don't help me?
The chiropractor will make it a point to refer you to someone else who could help you better. Usually we suggest that the person see their doctor or consult in the emergency room, as the case may be.
