​Does the current state of the world have you experiencing more headaches than normal? Tension, anxiety, stress... These can trigger headaches in anyone at any time. But there are natural ways to relieve headache pain and calm the tension causing it. Santa Barbara's pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings can provide a calming backdrop for these strategies. Here are some natural headache relief options you can try:

1. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can often be a headache trigger. Make sure you're drinking enough water; fill up your largest water bottle and drink up.
2. Relaxation Techniques: Find a peaceful spot in one of Santa Barbara's parks or beaches and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These techniques have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce headache frequency.
3. Chiropractic: You may find relief from chiropractic adjustments. Neck pain, back pain, and tension can all lead to headache pain. Give us a call today to make an appointment.
4. Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender or peppermint can be soothing. You can use an essential oil diffuser or apply diluted oil to your temples and massage them gently. (Make sure to read all instructions that come with your oils thoroughly for proper use.)
5. Acupressure and massage: Many people find relief from acupressure and massaging tense muscles. Acupressure is based on ancient Chinese medicine that believes stimulating certain pressure points on the body may help the body heal. Here is a resource that demonstrates how to apply pressure to a point commonly thought to ease headache pain.
6. Caffeine: In moderation, caffeine can help relieve some types of headaches. You can have a cup of coffee or tea at one of Santa Barbara's charming cafes.
7. Avoid Trigger Foods: Pay attention to your diet and avoid foods or drinks that are known headache triggers for you. Many migraine sufferers know that certain foods can trigger their migraines and by limiting their intake of those foods, they can keep migraines at bay.
8. Sleep: Ensure you're getting enough quality sleep, as lack of sleep can be a major headache trigger.
9. Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to your forehead or neck to help constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
10. Stay Away from Screens: If your headache is triggered by screen time, take a break from your devices and enjoy the scenic views in Santa Barbara instead.

You don't have to live with frequent headaches. Pain is a signal that something is not right, so try to stay positive while pinpointing the cause. And remember, we're here to help you. Let's work together to find your relief.

Back pain plagues more than 1 in 10 people worldwide. And when we think about back pain, we often think injury, accident, or overuse. But there are many other, less commonly known, causes of back pain. Knowing these may help you pinpoint the cause of your pain and help you discover a way to fix it.
Here are seven surprising causes of back pain:

1. Emotional Stress: Stress and anxiety can lead to muscle tension and increased muscle contractions, which may result in back pain. This is especially common in the upper back and shoulders.
2. Poor Posture: Maintaining poor posture for extended periods, such as slouching at a desk or while using electronic devices, can strain the muscles and ligaments in your back, leading to discomfort and pain.
3. Footwear: Wearing high heels or unsupportive shoes can alter your gait and posture, putting extra stress on your lower back. This can lead to chronic pain over time.
4. Inflammatory Foods: Consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can contribute to inflammation in the body, potentially exacerbating back pain for some individuals.
5. Dehydration: Lack of proper hydration can lead to reduced disc height and spinal stiffness, which may increase the risk of back pain.
6. Smoking: Smoking can restrict blood flow to the spine and decrease the body's ability to absorb calcium, which can weaken bones and increase the risk of back pain and fractures.
7. Excessive Tech Use: Spending long hours hunched over electronic devices like smartphones and tablets can strain the neck and upper back muscles, causing discomfort and pain, often referred to as "tech neck."

Remember that back pain can also result from more conventional factors such as muscle strains, herniated discs, arthritis, or spinal issues. If you're experiencing persistent or severe back pain, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care or lifestyle recommendations.
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Chiropractic Checkup for Back Pain
If you're dealing with back pain, it may be time to come in for a visit. We can help you determine the cause of your pain and you may find relief with adjustments. Let us help you get "back" to your old self!

​Dr. Kori is a chiropractor in Santa Barbara, CA who specializes in optimum performance in humans and animals.