Understanding Migraine Headaches

At Edgemont Chiropractic Clinic, Dr David Olson and me, Dr Walker, are often presented with the opportunity to assist patients suffering from this most severe form of headache - migraines.

Migraines are more than just severe headaches; they are a debilitating neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by intense, throbbing pain often on one side of the head, migraines can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.

Traditional treatments for migraines range from medication to lifestyle changes, but an increasingly popular alternative is chiropractic care. This blog explores the nature of migraines and how chiropractic treatment may provide relief.

What are Migraines?

Migraines are not just regular headaches. They are complex events involving changes in the brain and the nervous system. There are several stages of a migraine:

1. Prodrome: Subtle symptoms like mood changes, food cravings, and neck stiffness.       
2. Aura: Visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots, and other sensory disruptions.
3. Attack: The phase where the actual headache occurs, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. 
4. Postdrome: After the headache, people often feel drained and washed out.

Migraine Causes and Triggers

While the exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, several factors can trigger them:

• Hormonal changes: Especially in women, due to fluctuations in estrogen.
• Food and drink: Aged cheeses, salty foods, and alcohol (especially wine) are common triggers. 
• Stress: Emotional stress can precipitate migraines. 
• Sensory stimuli: Bright lights and loud sounds can provoke a migraine.
• Changes in sleep patterns: Both lack of sleep and too much sleep can trigger a migraine.

 Traditional Migraine Treatments

Common treatments for migraines include:

• Medication: Pain relievers (like ibuprofen), triptans, anti-nausea medications, and preventive medications.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. 
• Stress management: Techniques like meditation, yoga, and biofeedback.

Chiropractic Treatment for Migraines at the Edgemont Chiropractic Clinic

Your chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine.  We use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to enable your body to heal itself without surgery or medication.

Here are a few ways chiropractic care at Edgemont Chiropractic Clinic can help you:

1. Spinal Adjustments: Misalignments in the spine can lead to muscular tension and restricted blood flow, which are potential triggers for migraines. Chiropractic adjustments that Dr Olson and I provide for you aim to correct these misalignments, improving spinal function and reducing stress on the nervous system.
2. Muscle Relaxation and Improved Circulation: Your Chiropractic treatments can help relax your tense muscles and improve circulation, potentially alleviating migraine symptoms.
3. Holistic Approach: Dr Olson and I often provide advice on lifestyle changes, posture correction, and exercises, addressing potential triggers and promoting overall well-being.
4. Drug-Free Pain Relief: Your Chiropractic care offers a natural alternative to pain management, avoiding the side effects associated with long-term medication use.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit at Edgemont Chiropractic Clinic

• Assessment: Dr Olson and I will perform a thorough assessment, including a review of your medical history and an examination of your spine.
• Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, we will present you with a personalized treatment plan.
• Spinal Manipulation: To begin helping you, we will use specific techniques to adjust the spine and other joints.
• Ongoing Care: Once you have achieved success with your treatment plan, we often suggest follow-up visits that may be necessary to maintain alignment and prevent future migraines.

Research and Evidence

Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for migraines. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 22% of people who received chiropractic treatment reported more than a 90% reduction in migraines, while 49% reported a significant reduction in the intensity of their migraines.

 Conclusion

Migraines are a complex and challenging condition that can significantly impact the quality of your life. While traditional treatments are often effective, your chiropractic care offers a promising alternative or complementary approach. By focusing on spinal health and overall wellness, your chiropractic treatment can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, providing a drug-free option for those seeking relief.

If you suffer from migraines, consider consulting Dr Olson or myself to see if this approach could work for you. Always remember to discuss any new treatments with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific condition.