Headache care in Torrance
Many headaches start in the neck and shoulders, from tight muscles, stiff joints or long hours at a screen. Dr. Roozbeh Sahrai, D.C., QME, looks for the source of your headaches and offers gentle, low-force care.
- Gentle, low-force adjustments
- Same-day visits often available
- Every step explained
Call 911 or go to the emergency room for a sudden, severe headache, a headache after a head injury, or a headache with fever and a stiff neck, confusion, weakness or numbness, trouble speaking or seeing, or a seizure. See your doctor soon about new headaches after age 50 or headaches that keep getting worse.
Headaches that start in the neck
Cervicogenic headaches start in the neck. The pain is often on one side, begins at the back of the head and spreads forward, and can get worse with certain neck movements or positions.
Tension-type headaches feel like a band of pressure around the head or across the forehead. They often come with tight neck and shoulder muscles, stress or poor sleep.
Migraines are a different condition, often with throbbing pain, nausea or sensitivity to light. They need a medical diagnosis, so keep working with your medical doctor.
Common triggers
Knowing what sets off your headaches helps us find the right care.
Long hours at a screen
Leaning toward a phone or computer strains the neck and upper back.
Posture
A forward head position loads the muscles at the base of the skull.
Tight neck and shoulder muscles
Tension in these muscles can send pain into the head.
Stress and poor sleep
Both tighten muscles and make headaches more likely.
Jaw clenching
Clenching or grinding your teeth can bring on headaches around the temples.
Neck injuries
Whiplash from a car accident or fall can lead to headaches.
How we treat it
- Gentle, low-force Activator adjustments for the neck and upper back
- Myofascial release and massage for tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for better neck posture
- Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and low-level (cold) laser therapy
- Workstation and posture advice, and tips to track what triggers your headaches
Dr. Sahrai examines you first to look for a neck-related cause. Dr. Sahrai asks new patients for three visits to see if he can help. If there’s little or no improvement, or your headaches need further evaluation, he refers you to a medical doctor.
From our patients
“I’ve been seeing Dr. Sahrai for the past 20 years, and I couldn’t be happier with the care I’ve received. From my first appointment, Dr. Sahrai took the time to thoroughly assess my condition and explain the treatment plan in detail.”
“He does not try to oversell you on services. He is extremely effective, uses gentle equipment, and gets outstanding results!”
“Best Chiropractic in the South Bay!!! Dr. Sahrai is very knowledgeable, understanding and great with his patients. Office staff is very friendly & welcoming.”
Excerpts from real Google and Yelp reviews.
Headache questions
Can a chiropractor help with headaches?
Headaches that start in the neck and tension-type headaches are the kinds most likely to respond to neck care, soft tissue work and exercise. Dr. Sahrai examines you first and refers you to a medical doctor if your headaches need further evaluation.
Do you treat migraines?
Migraines need a medical diagnosis and care from your medical doctor. Some people with migraines also have neck and shoulder tension, and gentle care for that can fit alongside your medical treatment.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Notes on when your headaches happen, how long they last, where they hurt and what helps or makes them worse, plus a list of your medications.
When is a headache an emergency?
Call 911 or go to the emergency room for a sudden, severe headache, a headache after a head injury, or a headache with fever and a stiff neck, confusion, weakness or numbness, trouble speaking or seeing, or a seizure.
Headaches getting in the way? Text us today.
4305 Torrance Blvd., Suite 100, Torrance, CA 90503
Monday to Friday 9 AM–6 PM, Saturday 9 AM–4 PM
Serving Torrance and the South Bay, including Redondo Beach, Gardena, Carson, San Pedro and Palos Verdes.
Also see: Neck pain, Jaw pain (TMJ) and Car accident injury care