Migraines can be extremely debilitating for those suffering from them, even affecting their relationship with their family, their social life, and their job. If you suffer from this neurological disorder, rest assured that you are not alone. As many as 10% of the population has migraines, with 18% of these being women and many of which are keen on visiting a migraine chiropractic clinic near Sacramento. Migraines generally occur in the age range of 25 to 55, although they can affect anyone at any age. There are various medications available to help care for migraines. However, many people find them ineffective or filled with undesirable side effects. Thankfully, new research is revealing an alternative way to care for migraines that does not involve medication. It has proven to be effective for many migraine sufferers. Let's take a look at what some methods of care involve and a final solution that can ease up migraines long term.
Ways to Combat Migraine Pain
Rest after stress: Most of us know that worry can cause a headache or a migraine to occur. But, did you also realize the relief after coping with a stressful situation can cause migraines? This information comes from the Yeshiva University in New York after they discovered a drop in cortisol and other stress-related hormones can bring about head pain. Therefore, if you are coming out of a stressful situation, it is wise to take all the precautions you would if you suspect a migraine is coming on. Things such as getting some sleep, eating properly, mild physical exercise, and practicing relaxation techniques can all be beneficial for the nervous system to function properly. You may want to include cognitive behavioral therapy, guided visual imagery, or just closing your eyes for 30 seconds and focusing on your breathing.
Telling others about your pain: Researchers at the University of Michigan analyzed 21,741 tweets about migraines. Out of these, 65% of those tweeting were having a migraine at the time as the message was sent. They discovered that just expressing your feelings about migraines and the pain you are enduring can relieve some of the symptoms. Study author, Alexandre DaSilva, stated that neuroimaging studies suggest cognitive and emotional areas of the brain can control some of the activity related to physical pain. Therefore, talking about your migraines on social media may actually provide a measure of relief beyond expressing your emotions.
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Over caring for migraines: Some doctors begin by sending their migraine patients off for expensive and unnecessary testing, such as MRIs and CT scans. A study in Boston at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital revealed that 12 million Americans are needlessly tested when suffering with migraines. Study author, John N. Mafi, said clinical guidelines for migraines recommend doctors educate their patients on lifestyle modifications before sending them for these additional tests which usually do not reveal anything vital. Being healthy, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and regularly exercising are important to helping migraines. It is also highly recommended to keep a migraine diary. Keeping track of what you were doing, the foods you ate, the weather conditions, and how you were feeling before a migraine attack can help you identify your personal triggers and avoid them.
Biofeedback: This allows you to use information or feedback about your skin temperature, brain waves, muscle tension, and other signals within the body to help reduce your stress. Information is gathered through the use of electrodes small metal sensors placed on your skin. The machine they are attached to show data as numbers, sounds, or electrical waves on the screen. Studies have revealed that during a migraine, blood flow in the brain changes. By using biofeedback, you can actually change the flow of blood to the brain in order to have more control over a headache.
Acupuncture: This is an ancient Chinese method in which very fine needles are placed into different areas on the body. It is used to help correct energy imbalances and helps the body better fight off illnesses. Studies show that acupuncture may help the body release pain-blocking chemicals, such as endorphins. The brain may also be stimulated to give off other chemicals and hormones that encourage the body to be healthier.
Herbs: There are a number of different herbs that may be suggested for migraines. Most studies have looked at butter bur and fever few. Fever few is the most popular herbal remedy when it comes to migraine relief. Studies have shown that it is helpful, but more research is needed to actually prove this. It is important to talk to your doctor before trying any type of herb or supplement to be sure it is safe for you and won't interact with any medications you are currently taking.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic Helps Migraines
One of the most effective natural remedies for migraines is upper cervical chiropractic care. A study was done of 101 migraine patients. Upon examination, it was discovered that they all had a misalignment in the bones of the upper neck. Each of these patients was given an adjustment tailored to their specific needs by an upper cervical chiropractor. The result They all saw improvement in their migraine pain, while some of them saw their migraines go away and not return.
Here at Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Sacramento, we use a method similar to that used in the above-mentioned study. It is gentle and does not require us to pop or crack the neck to realign the displaced bones. It is based on scientific measurements and helps the bones move back into place naturally. This results in a longer-lasting adjustment and Sacramento vertigo relief. Our patients have reported similar results to those in the study mentioned above.
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If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
