Physical Therapy for Migraines
If you suffer from chronic migraines, physical therapy could provide some relief. Working with a qualified and experienced physical therapist will allow them to identify the source of your headaches and create an individualized treatment plan to address them.
Your physical therapist will begin by taking a comprehensive history of your condition and symptoms. They’ll inquire when the pain started, any other diagnoses you’ve had, as well as any medications or treatments you have tried.
They may examine your neck to determine if it’s in proper alignment, which could be contributing to migraines and other pain problems. If so, your therapist may massage its muscles to reduce inflammation and tension. They might also use kinesiology taping to correct posture and increase flexibility in your neck.
Other techniques your therapist might employ to manage your headaches include spinal manipulation, manual cervical traction and vestibular rehabilitation. The latter helps improve balance and dizziness – two common symptoms associated with cervicogenic migraines.
These specialized treatments are tailored to address the causes of cervicogenic headaches or other migraine-related problems, such as neck injury or muscle tightness. Your therapist will release tight muscles in your neck and other parts of the body to reduce pressure on nerves in your neck.
Your therapist might also suggest performing special exercises to strengthen your neck muscles, which could reduce the intensity of pain. They will instruct you on how to perform these exercises correctly and give you handouts or videos so that you can practice at home.
Another specialized physical therapy approach for treating migraine is vestibular rehab, which helps you improve your sense of balance and spatial orientation. This therapeutic modality utilizes specific head, neck, and gaze stabilization exercises to strengthen the vestibular system’s capacity for functioning optimally.
You’ll need to be consistent in doing stretches and other exercises during your sessions, but they are highly effective. They can help reduce migraine frequency while improving quality of life for you and those around you.
Other strategies that may reduce the severity of your headaches include avoiding bright lights and loud sounds, drinking plenty of water, and taking time to relax before going to bed. You might also want to incorporate regular yoga practice into your routine; this will help alleviate stress and clear your mind.
Many people who experience migraines also struggle with anxiety or depression. Though these symptoms may appear connected, they don’t need to be; these conditions can be treated successfully with the proper medication, diet, and exercise regimen.
If you suffer from anxiety or depression, it’s essential to speak with your doctor about which medications or treatment options may be most beneficial for you. You may require a combination of drugs to manage symptoms, or just one may suffice.
Mental health conditions and migraines often coexist, meaning they can exacerbate each other. Eliminating anxiety and depression symptoms may be the most effective way to reduce or prevent migraine attacks.
