Anyone who has suffered from a migraine will tell you how debilitating the condition can be. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, it is an issue that affects 38 million Americans annually, with nearly three quarters of those who suffer being female.
Migraines are characterized by intense pressure and throbbing in the head and neck, blurred vision, an inability to tolerate loud noises or bright lights as well as nausea and even vomiting. They can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days. During the onset of a migraine, sufferers often report a flashing light sensation or an “aura” effect.
Like other headaches, doctors are not sure what brings on a migraine. However, some triggers can be environmental pollutants, high stress situations, lack of sleep, odors, changing weather patterns, alcohol, chocolate and even dairy products. Another possible cause of migraines could be a misalignment of the vertebrae that irritates the nerves traveling the length of the spine to the brain.
Some other ailments that are often associated with migraines include neck pain, family history, nasal congestion or sinus issues and known triggers similar to those noted above. The onset is often before the age of 30 and can become less severe as sufferers reach mid-life.
If you suffer from migraines, chiropractic adjustments can be an effective treatment plan to help manage and even eliminate the condition. In fact, a report released in 2001 by researchers at the Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center in Durham, NC, found that "spinal manipulation resulted in almost immediate improvement for those headaches that originate in the neck, and had significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief of tension-type headache than commonly prescribed medications."
Because every condition is unique, a thorough evaluation should precede any chiropractic treatment. However, the most common treatment plans for migraines include manipulation of the cervical vertebrae as well as specialized spinal adjustments designed to reduce spinal tension.
Do you suffer from the incapacitating effects of migraines? The caring team at Arndt Chiropractic Center can work with you to create a treatment plan to help reduce the pain and alleviate your symptoms. Contact us today for more information!
