A migraine is a specific type of headache, often only on one side of your head, and sometimes accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. You may experience something called an aura, in which you see lights flashing or shimmering. Migraines can disrupt your life.
There are medications available for the treatment of migraines, but you may have many reasons for not wanting to take them. The following non-pharmaceutical approaches to migraine pain are highly effective.
Identify and avoid triggers
Almost everyone who has migraines has triggers, or certain things that cause the migraine to start, but not all people have the same triggers. Some common migraine triggers include:
- Certain foods: Highly processed meats, soft cheeses, and sugary foods may be problematic
- Alcohol: Red wine is a well-known migraine trigger, but other types of alcohol also can bring on a migraine
- Additives: These include monosodium glutamate (MSG), aspartame, and nitrates
- Caffeine: Either too much or too little could lead to a migraine
- Sleep: Getting too much or not enough sleep could be a trigger
- Hormonal changes: Women may experience migraines related to the hormonal shifts in their menstrual cycle
- Skipping meals: Eating regularly can be critical for some people with migraines
There are many other possible triggers, and your list of migraine triggers is likely to be as unique as you are. It’s worth investigating to identify your triggers, though, because you may find that simply skipping that glass of wine can keep you from having a migraine.
Practice relaxation techniques
People with migraines who participate in activities designed to promote relaxation, such as yoga, tai chi, meditation, or getting regular massage therapy, report fewer migraines. There are many theories regarding why these methods help, and almost no chance that they could do harm.
It’s important to find activities that you enjoy. You’re far more likely to go to a yoga class if you enjoy it than if you feel as though it’s something you have to do. Investigate different relaxation techniques that work for you — you may find that simply scheduling 30 minutes of quiet time to read works best for you.
Consider neural stimulation and trigger point injections
A specialist at Leading Edge Medical may suggest neural stimulation for your migraine pain, and although that may sound scary, it simply means nerve stimulation. The process is noninvasive and alleviates pain by targeting specific nerves.
Some people find relief from migraines with trigger point injections. Corticosteroids, anesthetics, or BOTOX® could be useful. Your Leading Edge Medical team member can explain the benefits and answer your questions about trigger point injections.
Schedule a chiropractic adjustment
When your body is properly aligned, it functions better, which could be one reason many people who have migraines find that chiropractic care brings relief. Chiropractic adjustments may also ease tension in your muscles, which can help reduce the number of headaches you have.
Although there are some people who shouldn’t have chiropractic adjustments, such as those who have had certain spinal surgeries, it is generally considered safe. Some research has concluded that chiropractic care is an effective approach for treating migraines.
If you suffer from migraines and are looking for a path to drug-free pain relief, book an appointment at Leading Edge Medical in Gilbert, Arizona, to discuss the options available.
