Chiropractic Care: A Good Alternative Treatment For Migraines
Migraines are complicated. They can pop up seemingly out of nowhere. They're not always easy to get rid of, and while doctors have some ideas of what causes them, they don't even know for sure. Migraine medications work for some people, but not for everyone. If you've been taking over-the-counter or prescription migraine treatments and have yet to notice any results, it may be time to explore some other options. There are a few alternative treatments for migraines — reiki, acupuncture, and herbs work well for some people. A good place to start, however, is chiropractic care.
How can chiropractic care help with migraines?
It may sound strange, at first, that adjusting your spine could help with migraines. But once you understand how it works, it makes sense. When your spine is out of alignment, it puts pressure on the muscles in your back and neck. The muscles in your neck, especially, become tight. This, in turn, can put pressure on certain nerves in the area, and that can lead to migraines. Having your spine adjusted, then, can help take the tension off your neck, which can take the pressure off your nerves, and can help prevent migraines.
What does chiropractic care involve?
If you see the chiropractor and tell them that you're struggling with migraines, they will likely start by adjusting your back and neck. They'll have you lie down on a table while they use their hands or a small tool to put pressure on specific areas along your spine. Your vertebrae will move back into place. You may hear a popping noise, but you won't feel any pain as this happens.
Some chiropractors may also apply heat therapy to your neck, use a TENS device to relax the nerves and muscles in your neck, and even do a little massage on your neck.
How long does chiropractic care take to work?
Many migraine sufferers notice a difference after just one adjustment. Your migraines probably won't go away completely, but they may occur less frequently and be less severe. For better results, though, you should have regular chiropractic adjustments. When your spine has been out of alignment for a while, it can take a few adjustments to get it to stay in its new position.
Migraines are a real pain, but there is plenty you can do for them.
Consider visiting a chiropractor in your area to learn more about migraine alternative treatments.