Migraines and Chiropractic Care

What are migraines?

A migraine is an excruciating, often re-occurring headache that may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as visual disturbances, nausea, weakness, fatigue and increased intensity related to movement.

While researchers don’t know all the exact causes of a migraine, it is known that migraine headaches are related to blood flow to and/or chemical changes in the brain. There seems to be a genetic predisposition to migraines, but migraines can be brought on by triggers, such as:

• Alcohol

• Consuming certain foods, in particular, fermented or pickled foods and those with MSG or nitrates

• Stress

• Changes in sleep, eating habits and weather

• Odours and exposure to smoke

• Hormonal changes

• Neck pain and/or tension

• Stimuli such as loud noises or bright lights

Migraine sufferers need to seek the advice of their MD to look for other potential headache causes or abnormalities. Your MD may recommend a CT Scan, MRI, or spinal tap to help rule out other headache sources.

How may chiropractic care help migraine sufferers?

Spinal manipulations may help remove the interference and stress in the cervical area of the spine, which might be a migraine trigger. In general, chiropractic adjustments also help improve blood flow and nervous system functioning, both of which might be related to the cause of migraines.

Several clinical trials indicate that spinal manipulation therapy may help treat migraine headaches. In one study of people with migraines, 22% of those who received chiropractic manipulation reported more than a 90% reduction of attacks. Also, 49% reported a significant reduction of the intensity of each migraine. 1

If you suffer from migraines, it’s recommended to note from the previous 24 hours before the migraine your actions, feelings, food and drink consumption, sleep, location and duration of your migraine so that lifestyle changes can be made to avoid specific triggers - And if you’re experiencing unbearable pain as the result of a migraine, seek medical help immediately.

If you experience migraines and are looking for an all-natural treatment option, consider chiropractic care. Please reach out to us to schedule your consultation and chiropractic appointment. 519-258-8544