Migraine Prevention
Chiropractic care has been shown to help with reducing the severity and frequency of migraine attacks especially common migraines. It can also help with treating restricted movement in the neck, muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and upper back and assist with postural issues which may be influencing the occurrence of migraine and tension headaches.
A migraine type headache typically presents with an intense throbbing pain on one side of the head, sensitivity to light and sounds, possible nausea, you may also have experienced an unusual sensation known as an aura prior to the migraine beginning. The aura is made up of a range of temporary neurological symptoms, these can affect the vision, tingling in your limbs or face or dizziness. The frequency and duration of migraines can vary from person to person.
The exact cause of migraines has not yet been found, we do know there is a genetic (familial) aspect to them, with women 3 times more likely to suffer a migraine than men.
Your migraine may have several factors which can trigger them, these should be avoided as best as possible, the use of chiropractic treatment to improve the movement of your neck, combined with the stretching and strengthening exercises acts as a preventative measure making you more resilient to the triggers of a migraine.
Goals of Chiropractic Care The main goals of chiropractic care in the treatment of Migraine prevention include:
- Relieve the headache pain
- Release tension in the neck
- Relax tight muscles
- Stimulate nerves
- Improve spinal function
- Reduce pain
- Increase range of motion
Majority of headaches are of a benign, simple and treatable nature however if you are experiencing any of the following, we recommend you consult your GP:
- You are over 50 years old and your headaches have just developed
- Your usual headache has had a major change of pattern
- Your headache is severe, and your eye has a bloodshot appearance
- Your headache has suddenly appeared and is explosive or violent
- You are experiencing slurred speech, vision problems, confusion, memory loss, problems with movement of your arms or legs
- You have a history of cancer and have developed a new persistent headache