Migraines are an extremely debilitating and common condition. Over 38 million people across the United States are affected, amounting to nearly 1 in every 4 households. There are several key differences that make a migraine distinct from other headache types.
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Distinct Migraine Symptoms
- Aura – Some migraine sufferers will have changes in their vision prior to the onset of the headache. Auras can be wavy lines, flickers, or spots.
- Watery eyes or stuffy nose – Some migraine sufferers can experience nasal drainage, droopy eyelids, or tearing as part of an episode.
- Throbbing head pain – This pulsating pain is most commonly felt on one side of the head, but can also be felt on both sides.
- Neck pain – Throbbing pain or stiffness in the back of the neck is often an early sign that a migraine is approaching.
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells – Most people in the midst of a migraine attack want to be someplace dark and quiet. Certain lighting conditions and odors such as strong perfume can trigger a migraine episode.
Looking for a Cause of Migraines
Migraines are typically considered to be a neurological condition. It would seem fit, then, to look toward the nervous system for a potential root cause. Most traditional migraine relief care, such as medications, provide symptomatic relief but do not address any potential cause of the problem. Upper cervical chiropractic’s goal is to look for areas of interference within the nervous system that can be contributing to the many symptoms of a migraine episode.
A misalignment of the upper vertebrae in the spine, which sit just beneath the skull, can prevent normal functioning of the nervous system at the level of the brainstem. This can not only impact the nerves but can also affect blood flow and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. All of these factors combined can lead to a migraine. By addressing any misalignments of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, we are able to get to the cause of many patients’ migraines. Once spinal alignment is returned to normal, the body is able to heal and function properly, which can result in fewer or less intense migraines.
References:
https://migraineresearchfoundation.org/about-migraine/migraine-facts/
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20537878,00.html/view-all
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