As a continuation of our previous blog post discussing migraines and headaches, we would like to explain our approach to treating migraines and headaches at
1. Chiropractic adjustments to remove the causative subluxations.
2. Active Release Technique® to reduce tight muscles of the neck and shoulders.
3. Nutritional advice to reduce inflammation and improve blood sugar stabilization.
4. Exercise to increase cervical spine stability.
5. Acupuncture to reduce pain and sensitivity.
Here is a further explanation of each of these steps:
Chiropractic adjustments are the primary tool for chiropractors to remove cervical spine subluxations. A subluxation is a dysfunctional segment in the spine that includes the joint, the muscles, and the nerves. The adjustment restores proper movement, relaxes tight muscles, and improves nerve flow.
Active Release Technique® is used to remove scar tissue in the muscle and fascia of the neck and sub-occipital regions. This scar tissue is frequently the cause of chronic migraines as it greatly restricts proper joint movement and irritates the nerves of the cranium. ART® has the ability to not only take away the pain of an acute migraine but also prevent recurring headaches.
Nutrition is the next tool we use in treating headaches. Blood sugar instability is caused when sugar or foods easily converted into sugar are routinely taken in. This creates fast elevation and decline of blood sugar levels. The result is increased tension in the cervical spine musculature. Often this is seen when people skip or only eat a banana or similar high-sugar food for breakfast. As their day moves on, a mid-morning headache begins spiraling into a migraine later in the day. Eating protein at breakfast and small protein snacks during the day and abstaining from sugary drinks, high-carb meals, and refined white sugar can help a migraine sufferer greatly reduce flare-ups.
Exercise is helpful in reducing headaches and migraines. Migraine sufferers often lack cervical spine stability observed with those who have “Forward Head Posture.” FHP is seen when the head slumps forward in front of the shoulders. This creates a pattern of tight and weak muscles. Exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, rowing, and cervical retraction exercises are all very helpful to reduce FHP and migraines.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to help those suffering with headaches. It is one of the most widely researched headache treatments and has been shown to be predictably helpful. Acupuncture works to increase endorphin activity in the brain. Endorphins are 200 times stronger than morphine. This makes acupuncture an ideal treatment for migraines and other types of headaches.
A simple, quick fix for a headache is White Willow Tree Bark extract and Biofreeze. White Willow Tree Bark extract is also known as the “Natural Aspirin.” It’s a safe alternative to the synthetic version, but still contains the helpful salicylic acid. Biofreeze is an all-natural topical analgesic that comes in convenient roll-on applicators. This product has a long track record of reducing muscle pain and sensitivity. These products are on sale in our Roanoke, Virginia office through July 11.
A well-rounded, full spectrum, holistic treatment approach to migraines is recommended for anyone who suffers with this debilitating condition. Migraines do not have to cost you money, lost days from work, or years of your life. Migraines are a treatable condition that should not ever be considered a normal part of life.
Dr. Daryl Rich, DC, CSCS
