While many people experience migraine attacks, the cause is not well known. Some think that changes in how blood and nerves work in certain parts of the brain, along with imbalances in the body’s chemicals, might be behind these headaches. Nevertheless, chiropractic treatment is an effective solution for those dealing with migraines, including chronic migraines
What Is Chronic Migraine?
Chronic migraine is a condition characterized by frequent and long-lasting headaches. Unlike episodic migraine, where headache days are fewer, chronic migraine brings daily or even hourly shifts in symptoms. During these periods, you may find it hard to differentiate between where one headache or migraine ends and the next begins.
Symptoms of chronic migraine may include frequent headaches and heightened sensitivity to sound, light, or smells. Nausea and vomiting are also common. These symptoms usually cause discomfort.
Additionally, chronic migraine can involve other symptoms, such as aura, which may manifest as visual disturbances, speech difficulties, or sensations like numbness. Dizziness and vertigo, a sensation of spinning, can also be experienced during chronic migraines.
Living with chronic migraine can be challenging due to the unpredictable nature of symptoms and duration. Seeking medical help, especially chiropractic treatment can help you manage and find relief from the effects of chronic migraine.
Chiropractic Solutions for Chronic Migraines
Chronic migraines are a type of headache. There are different treatment options and chiropractic solutions may offer long-lasting relief. Here are chiropractic solutions for chronic migraines:
1. Neuromuscular massage
Neuromuscular massage, also called trigger point therapy, is a type of massage that targets trigger points in areas like the head, neck, shoulders, and back. This approach aims to help muscles relax, boost blood circulation, and reduce stress. This way, it can provide relief from various discomforts including chronic migraines.
Additionally, by working on these trigger points, the massage can release tension and ease any pressure on nerves. These nerves are responsible for sending pain signals to your brain. Therefore, when the pressure on them is less, you might experience a reduction in the symptoms of chronic migraines.
Neuromuscular massage is often considered a complementary therapy. It can be used as a part of a wider approach to managing chronic migraines and other forms of discomfort.
2. Multidisciplinary care intervention
A multidisciplinary care intervention brings together various methods to help people dealing with chronic migraines. It includes exercises guided by chiropractors, methods to relax, ways to handle stress, and advice on what to eat.
This combination has shown positive results in lessening migraine pain, making them happen less often, shortening their duration, and minimizing their impact on daily life. When you work with a chiropractor, you should expect a combination of physical therapy exercises, relaxation techniques, stress management, and dietary counseling.
Therefore, you must consider the many factors that can contribute to chronic migraines and fully address them to improve overall well-being.
3. Spinal manipulation
Spinal manipulation is a treatment method where a chiropractor uses their hands or a special tool to gently push on a particular joint in your spine. Sometimes, when this pressure is applied, you might hear a popping sound. This technique is often focused on the upper part of your spine, called the cervical spine, which is located in your neck.
When it comes to chronic migraines, spinal manipulation can be helpful. By adjusting the joints in the neck, spinal manipulation aims to reduce any stiffness or tension that might be contributing to the headache. This can bring relief to the discomfort associated with these headaches.
Having the procedure done by a chiropractor is also essential. This is because they are trained and have the knowledge to perform it safely and effectively.
4. Low-load craniocervical mobilization
Low-load craniocervical mobilization is a gentler approach as compared to the stronger forces used in spinal manipulation. It is often used to help with headaches including chronic migraines. During this treatment, a gentle force is applied to the joints in the neck, which promotes a rhythmic, back-and-forth movement of sections of your neck.
In addition to this gentle movement, stretching is typically included as part of this treatment. Stretching helps to increase the flexibility of the neck muscles and joints. This is particularly beneficial as it will help in providing relief for the chronic migraine you feel.
Generally, low-load craniocervical mobilization helps to reduce tension and stiffness in the neck. Applying a mild force with stretching exercises offers relief from headache symptoms.
5. Posture correction
A bad posture can contribute to the symptoms of chronic migraines. When you do not sit or stand straight, it can put extra stress on your neck and back, which might trigger or worsen migraines.
Chiropractors are experts in this area. They can offer advice on how to keep your posture in check. They may make recommendations that may include sitting up straight and avoiding hunching over.
Additionally, they may ask you to perform certain exercises to make the muscles that help with good posture. These exercises can help you maintain better alignment, reduce strain on your neck and back, and frequency or intensity of your migraines.
6. Lifestyle and dietary recommendations
To provide a solution to chronic migraines, chiropractors may make recommendations about adjusting your daily habits as well as making the right decision with your diet. Their advice is to help lower the chances of migraine triggers.
For example, a chiropractor may ask that you avoid consuming certain types of food known to promote migraines in some people. Drinking enough water to stay properly hydrated can also be important in managing migraines.
Chiropractors can assist you in finding ways to handle stress better. Stress can be a big migraine trigger, so learning techniques to stay calm and relaxed can make a significant difference.
Conclusion
Chiropractic care is a possible solution for chronic migraines. Through spinal adjustments, trigger point therapy, posture correction, stress reduction techniques, and dietary advice, you can find relief from migraine symptoms. Consulting a chiropractor treatment can significantly help in giving you relief.