How a Chiropractor Can Help Migraine Sufferers
Migraine headaches are a bit of a medical mystery. While we don't always know what causes them or what will provide relief in every person, we do know that there are common triggers and treatment options available. And while this condition can be debilitating for the approximately 37 million people who experience it, some migraine sufferers want to do everything they can to steer clear of prescription medication in favor of more natural treatment methods.
Seeing a chiropractor for headaches is just one possible treatment for migraine sufferers. In general, chiropractic treatment is gaining traction even among the most skeptical of individuals. Instead of prescribing opioids for chronic pain, countless doctors are recommending their patients visit a chiropractor. It's easy to see why: 95% of past-year chiropractic users say this treatment is effective, while 97% of people who have been seen by chiropractic specialists in the last year say they're likely to continue to do so if they experience back or neck pain.
Of course, you might be wondering what this has to do with migraines. While these pounding headaches represent a different type of pain, they may still be resolved with help from a chiropractor.
Many experts believe that migraines are caused by the expansion and contraction of blood vessels that cause swelling within the brain tissue. Others feel that chemical imbalances and nerve signals are to blame for migraine development. What's more, there are several factors that can trigger a migraine, ranging from age and gender to hormonal fluctuations, diet and exercise, and environmental changes.
While we may not yet be able to pinpoint an exact cause and triggers vary from person to person, we do know that stress can play a part in migraines. Emotional stress is related to the release of cortisol, while physical stress can be accompanied by bodily tension. For some people, issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can also cause migraines. Seeing a chiropractor for migraines can address at least some of the underlying causes of migraine headaches in patients through spinal manipulation. Adjusting irregularities in the back and neck can often alleviate muscular and nerve tension, providing physical relief and promoting overall healing.
Many patients find that pursuing chiropractic care for headaches and migraine relief does wonders in preventing these headaches or reducing their frequency and severity.A chiropractic professional can work with an individual to ensure alignment and assist in improved communication or reduced irritation in the nerves. The chiropractic treatment you'll receive can reduce muscular tension, improve blood flow, alleviate TMJ symptoms, and strengthen muscles to minimize migraines over time. Ultimately, this means that neck adjustments for migraines is more preventative than reactionary—and that translates to long-term relief for many migraine sufferers.
If you suffer from migraines and haven't yet spoken to a chiropractor about potential treatment options, you may be missing a piece of the puzzle. You don't have to simply live with your migraine pain or dull your symptoms with medications. To learn more about this natural and effective treatment option, please contact us today.
