Skip to content Skip to footer

Understanding &

treating headaches

Headaches affect billions globally across all demographics, posing a significant public health burden as they disrupt daily life—from manageable tension headaches to debilitating migraines—causing pain, disability, and reduced quality of life.

Finding relief from

headaches and migraines

Headaches encompass a diverse range of neurological experiences, characterized by pain or discomfort in any region of the head. This common ailment manifests in various forms and intensities, significantly impacting quality of life for millions worldwide.

Understanding Headaches

Various types of Headaches

1 Cervicogenic headaches are usually referred pain from the neck. They can be characterized as head pain accompanying neck tightness or pain. Tightness can also be found in the trapezius, shoulders, or any other muscle below the neck.

2 Cluster headaches are a primary disorder characterized by severe, excruciating pain in cyclical patterns or “clusters.” They are among the most painful types of headaches and are often described as more intense than migraines. Cluster headaches get their name because they occur in groups or clusters over weeks or months, followed by periods of remission during which no headaches occur.

3

A migraine is a debilitating headache that affects many people during their lifetimes. It is described as a sharp intense pain that generally affects one side of the head, and can have increased pain around the eye. Migraines can also produce symptoms such at dizziness, vomiting, nausea, light and sound sensitivity. There are a few different causes for migraines. Metabolic issues such as inflammation or nutrient deficiencies can be triggers. Issues with neck mechanics is a leading factor in many migraines. There can also be issues with hormonal fluctuations, or food and other environmental factors. The latest research shows that abnormal activity in the brain can also cause migraines.

4 Tension headaches are usually described as a tight band around the entire head, or around the temples/back of the head. It usually is a dull, achy pain that can also radiate to the jaw. Many times, these are caused by issues in the neck and jaw.

5 TNi s a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is one of the largest nerves in the head. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for transmitting sensations from the face to the brain. Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, severe, and sharp facial pain, often described as electric shock-like or stabbing. The pain typically occurs on one side of the face and can be triggered by everyday activities such as eating, talking, brushing teeth, or even a light touch to the face.

6 Post-traumatic headaches (PTH) are a type of headache that develops after a head or neck injury, such as a concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or whiplash. These headaches are considered secondary because an underlying condition causes them—in this case, trauma to the head or neck. Post-traumatic headaches can vary widely in their presentation, severity, and duration, and they often resemble other types of headaches, such as migraines or tension-type headaches.

Conquering

your headaches

  •  Third highest cause of disability worldwide
  • Headache is consistently the fourth or fifth most common reason for emergency department visits
  • Accounts for approximately 3% of annual emergency department visits
40%

Global population experiences headache disorders

1 in 6

American experience migraines or severe headaches

20.7%

Females experience headache disorders

9.7%

Males experience headache disorders

Finding The Root of the Problem

In the past, I have always resorted to medications to get rid of my chronic headaches. After being treated by Dr. Minh Tran, they completely went away, and I stopped taking medications. He tries his best to find the root of the problem rather than just prescribing something you don’t need.
Jason S.
Multi-Modal Approach

Diagnostic Protocol for Headaches

Our cutting-edge program integrates a diverse array of therapies, each precisely calibrated to address your specific areas of deficit:

Tailored Approaches

Personalized Treatments Modalities

Find Out if Norcal Brain Center is Perfect for You.

Schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation online, or contact our patient care coordinators by phone.

Go to Top
Dr. Wai Lam Chu
Clinician

Dr. Wai Lam Chu

Dr. Wau here is your updated bio: Dr. Wai earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic, West Campus, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, she is committed to delivering culturally sensitive care to a diverse patient population.

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Dr. Wai was immersed in an environment that emphasized holistic health practices from a young age. This upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for natural healing methods, profoundly influencing her approach to chiropractic care.

In her practice, Dr. Wai addresses a range of conditions, including prenatal and postpartum discomfort, chronic pain, headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. She employs a combination of traditional chiropractic techniques and modern methodologies to offer personalized treatments.

Recognizing the intricate connection between the nervous system and overall health, Dr. Wai is committed to exploring and integrating advanced neurological insights into her practice. This approach of bridging musculoskeletal care with neurological rehabilitation aims to provide patients with a pathway to enhanced brain function and overall well-being.

Albert
Case Manager

Albert

Raised in the heart of San Jose, Albert has always been deeply rooted in community and family values. A proud alumna of Golden Gate University and UOP, he holds both a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and an MBA as a working adult. His passion for lifelong learning led him to pursue a legal education at Northwestern University School of Law.

Balancing the demands of the “sandwich generation,” he gracefully navigates the responsibilities of caring for a parent living with Parkinson’s while raising his daughter, both roles he embraces with unwavering love and dedication. Known for his commitment to service, he brings a family- and community-first mindset to everything he does.

Whether he’s supporting others through mentorship, volunteering, or simply sharing a warm smile, Albert thrives on connection. On any given day, you might spot him enjoying a bite at Mark’s Hot Dogs, indulging in something sweet from Peter’s Bakery, or grabbing a slice at House of Pizza, always grounded, always giving back.

Have a question?

   Ask Our Doctors

Subscribe for the Latest Brain Health News & Insights

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp

Receive the latest news and updates
Jessica
Patient Care Coordinator

Jessica

Since joining the team in August 2023, Jess has been committed to providing the best care to every patient who walks through the doors, always striving to impact their lives positively. She strongly desires to further her education in nursing and is dedicated to learning and growing through every opportunity at NorCal Brain Center.

Outside of work, Jess enjoys spending time in the great outdoors—whether off-roading, dispersed camping, or simply exploring new places. Traveling is one of her greatest joys, as discovering new destinations and making memories with loved ones fills her heart. She is also passionate about collecting Sanrio (Hello Kitty & Friends) items, which add a fun and lighthearted touch to her personal life.

Jess’s passion for her work and personal interests fuels her continuous drive to grow, learn, and experience the world around her.