Migraines

Migraine headaches are a common neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide.

They are characterized by severe pain, usually on one side of the head, and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

While there are various treatments available for migraines, chiropractic care has emerged as a popular and effective option. In this article, Okinawa Sports and Spinal explores how chiropractic can help with migraines. 

Chiropractic Care for Migraines

Chiropractic care involves the use of manual manipulation and adjustments to change the tone of deep muscles in the spine and other joints. This type of therapy is based on the idea that joint irritation can cause interference in the nervous system, leading to a range of health problems, including migraines. By correcting the cause of inflammation, chiropractic care can help restore normal nervous system function and reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

Chiropractors use various techniques to adjust the spine and other joints, including the use of their hands, specialized instruments, and other devices. These adjustments are designed to improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also use other therapies such as massage, stretching, and exercise to help alleviate migraine symptoms.

One of the benefits of chiropractic care for migraines is that it is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option. Many people with migraines prefer this type of therapy over prescription medications because it does not have the same side effects and risks. Chiropractic care can also be used in combination with other treatments, such as medication and lifestyle changes, to provide a comprehensive approach to migraine management.

Research on Chiropractic and Migraines

There have been numerous studies on the effectiveness of chiropractic care for migraines. While some of these studies have had mixed results, many have found that chiropractic can be an effective treatment option for reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

A 2011 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics looked at the effectiveness of chiropractic care for migraines. The study involved 127 participants who were divided into three groups. One group received chiropractic adjustments, another group received a common migraine medication, and a third group received a placebo. The results showed that the group receiving chiropractic care had significantly fewer migraines than the other two groups. They also reported less pain and better quality of life.

Another study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine in 2015 looked at the use of chiropractic care for migraines in children. The study involved 17 children with migraines who received chiropractic adjustments for a period of six weeks. The results showed that the children had a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of their migraines. They also reported improved quality of life and fewer missed school days.

A 2016 study published in the European Journal of Neurology compared the effectiveness of chiropractic care and medication for migraines. The study involved 104 participants who were randomly assigned to either receive chiropractic care or a common migraine medication. The results showed that both groups had similar reductions in the frequency and intensity of their migraines. However, the group receiving chiropractic care reported fewer side effects and higher satisfaction with their treatment.

A 2017 systematic review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that spinal manipulation, which is a common technique used in chiropractic care, was effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. The review analyzed data from 21 randomized controlled trials involving over 2,000 participants. The authors concluded that spinal manipulation was safe and effective for reducing migraines and could be considered as a first-line treatment option.

Conclusion

Migraine headaches can be a debilitating condition that affects many people and every case is different but the good news nearly every case can be improved with the right combination of treatments.