Chiropractor for Migraines
Migraines and Chiropractic Care
Author: Dr. Paula Basilio (Chiropractor) B.Chiro.Sci (Macq), M.Chiro (Macq)
Welcome to My Back Relief Clinic! We’re a unique healing space offering a combination of spinal adjustments, muscle work, rehabilitation, ergonomic advice and preventative exercises. Let us assist you in managing your migraine symptoms and enhancing your quality of life.
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What is a Migraine
A migraine is a disorder that affects the brain and causes a headache. It is a very common neurological disorder. The pain can be so severe that it prevents people from doing their daily activities.
There are various symptoms of migraine, including nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound. Migraine attacks can last from four to seventy-two hours. There are many factors that can trigger a migraine, but they are not completely understood yet.
You can also experience a range of migraine pains, along a spectrum of symptoms. Some people may be severely impacted, while others may only experience mild symptoms.
According to the Deloitte Access Economics Migraine in Australia Whitepaper:
- 4.9 million people in Australia suffer from migraine
- 71% of migraine sufferers are women and 86% are of working age
- 7.6% of migraine sufferers experience chronic migraine (more than 15 migraine days per month)
- The total economic cost of migraine in Australia is $35.7 billion. This consists of: $14.3 billion of health system costs; $16.3 billion of productivity costs; and $5.1 billion of other costs
- Migraine also imposes significant wellbeing costs on sufferers.
Symptoms of Migraines
Some people get an aura before the pain starts, while others have no warning signs before they start experiencing pain. The pain usually lasts for hours, but it can last for days or weeks in some cases.
The following are the most common symptoms:
- pain on one side of the head or neck
- throbbing or pulsing sensation
- nausea
- sensitivity to light and sound.
Migraine Triggers
At this point in time, we don’t really know what causes migraine. There is some evidence that it may be a genetic, inherited condition (or influenced by genes). Attacks are almost certainly triggered by a combination of factors, such as:
- some food and drink – cheese, chocolate, citrus fruits, alcohol (especially red wine)
- menstrual cycle
- physiochemical – excessive heat, light, noise or certain chemicals
- stress
- over or under sleeping.
Migraine Treatment
Chiropractic for Migraines
According to healthline.com: “Multiple clinical studies have found chiropractic care to be effective for some typesTrusted Source of migraine.”
Chiropractic Adjustment for Migraines
Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to to treat dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors also provide ergonomic, posture and lifestyle advice about biomechanics, form and function.
Migraines FAQs
Your first visit starts with a detailed history of your headaches and an examination of your spine, neck, posture and nervous system. If chiropractic care is suitable for you, it may include gentle adjustments to the neck and upper back, soft tissue work, and posture and ergonomic advice. We may also suggest keeping a headache diary to help identify your triggers. After your assessment, we’ll explain what we found and your care options in your Health Action Plan.
For most people, yes. Your first visit includes a thorough history and examination to make sure Chiropractic care is suitable for you and to rule out anything that needs medical attention. Treatment is tailored to you. Gentler techniques such as mobilisation and soft tissue work can be used instead of adjustments if those suit you better.
It can contribute for some people. Long hours at a desk or looking down at a phone can lead to forward head posture and build-up of tension in the neck and shoulders. That can be a trigger, alongside other common triggers like stress, poor sleep, skipped meals and dehydration. Improving your workstation setup and taking regular movement breaks are simple places to start.
Everyone is different. It depends on how often you get migraines, how long you’ve had them, and what triggers them. Some people notice changes in how often or how intense their attacks are within a few weeks, while others need longer. After your initial assessment, we’ll give you a realistic plan and timeframe for your situation.
No, you don’t need a referral. You can book directly with My Back Relief Clinic. If you have private health insurance with extras cover, you may be able to claim on the spot with HICAPS. Check with your health fund to see what your policy covers.
- Keep a headache diary to spot your personal triggers.
- Keep regular sleep and meal times.
- Drink enough water.
- Take regular breaks from screens and your desk.
- Manage stress where you can.
Chiropractor for Migraines
If you’re looking for advice from an experienced Sydney chiropractor, feel free to contact our clinic today.