What are migraines?
Migraines are a neurological condition that causes severe, one-sided throbbing headaches. In about 90% of cases, migraines run in families so you if you have a close relative with migraines, you’re more likely to experience them yourself. While there is no cure for migraines, conservative care from Taylor Chiropractic and Weight Loss Clinic can help you relieve the pain without relying on over-the-counter or prescription drugs.
What are the symptoms of migraines?
In addition to one-sided, throbbing head pain, migraines are accompanied by other symptoms like:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
- Eye discomfort or tearing
- Numbness and tingling in the face, jaw, arm, or hand
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Fatigue and weakness
Some people experience auras before a migraine occurs. Auras may involve seeing flashes of light or feeling ill, which can alert you that a migraine is about to begin.
What causes migraines?
Current research suggests that migraines are caused by altered pain pathways in the brain. Migraines have many known triggers which can flare up or intensify migraines, such as:
- Certain foods, like dairy products, caffeine, and alcohol
- Dehydration or low blood sugar
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Changes in weather and atmospheric pressure
- Stress
- Overexertion
- Lack of sleep
- Medication overuse, including taking medications for migraines too frequently
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a consistent schedule for eating and sleeping, can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Am I a good candidate for migraine treatment?
At Taylor Chiropractic and Weight Loss Clinic, treatment for migraines focuses on identifying and reducing any musculoskeletal or lifestyle issues that contribute to your pain. In many cases, patients with migraines have tight, stiff muscles in their necks, at the base of their skulls, and into their shoulders. Chiropractic care and massage therapy can reduce this muscle tension and restore your range of motion for greater comfort.
Treating musculoskeletal pain can also help you sleep better through the night, which may reduce your migraines. The team provides care for all types of musculoskeletal issues, including:
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Shoulder injuries
- Knee injuries
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
- Back pain
Lifestyle measures, such as cutting out trigger foods and staying well hydrated throughout the day, can also help reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.
For a personalized migraine treatment plan, schedule a visit online or by phone at Taylor Chiropractic and Weight Loss Clinic now.
