Chiropractors: They Can Treat More than Just Back Pain

Posted on: 10 January 2019

Migraines are a serious condition that can be debilitating. Though they weren't widely talked about until the last decade or so, they can affect almost anyone. Unfortunately, because many people know little about what migraines actually are, they can incorrectly call any severe headache a migraine, even if it isn't. Migraines are a very specific type of headache, and understanding what they are and how your chiropractor can help may enable you to get relief if you suffer from them.

What Exactly Are Migraines?

When you hear the word "migraine," you may think of just another really bad headache. The fact is that while migraines are headaches, they are actually much more than that. Your everyday headache, while painful, isn't nearly as bad as an actual migraine, and migraine sufferers will tell you that if you have ever had one, you know it.

Along with piercing headache pain, migraines also come with a significant sensitivity to the noises around you. Even subtle, soft noises can be painful to hear when you have a migraine. Similarly, light can also be a problem for migraine sufferers. It can be physically painful for your eyes and your head to see any kind of light. These two sensitivities are why many migraine sufferers close themselves in a quiet, dark room until the pain passes.

However, these aren't the only symptoms that come with a migraine. You may also experience nausea, vomiting, and dizziness with your migraine.

What Can Your Chiropractor Do About Migraines?

If you suffer from migraines, your physician may suggest that you visit a chiropractor. He or she will do a full examination and ask about what triggers your migraines, if you know. In addition, your chiropractor will also take x-rays to assess your spinal column and the vertebrae in your neck. Sometimes, the source of your migraines can lie in the alignment between the two.

Routine chiropractic adjustments can help your migraines in a couple of different ways. First, they can help lessen the frequency and intensity of the headaches by helping to keep your spine and your neck aligned. This eases some stress and compression in these areas. Since compression in your spine and neck can contribute to migraines, you may notice that they lessen when you follow a schedule of routine adjustments. Further, chiropractic adjustments can help to restore proper blood flow along your spine and vertebrae. With improved blood flow, the blood vessels in your head won't be so constricted. This can help to ease existing migraine pain, making it worthwhile to see your chiropractor when a migraine does occur.