Migraine Treatment in Mount Dora, FL

Migraines are neurological conditions characterized by frequent, moderate to severe headaches with associated nausea, vomiting, light and sound sensitivity, and visual disturbances known as “auras” that may persist for hours to days at a time, substantially disrupting daily activities and can severely affect your quality of life.

Migraines differ significantly from tension headaches, sinus, or cluster headaches in their symptoms and duration, often having pulsating, throbbing quality that typically appears only on one side of the head and being more disabling and potentially made worse with physical activity than cluster headaches; though both often include severe, excruciating pain in one eye area.

Common migraine triggers may include stress, hormonal shifts in women (for instance, during menstruation), specific foods or additives in foodstuffs, changes in sleeping patterns, physical exertion, and sensory stimuli such as bright lights or strong scents. However, these triggers vary between individuals, thus leading to different responses when experiencing migraine symptoms – not everyone responds similarly.

Diagnosing migraines requires conducting an exhaustive medical history review and physical exam, along with any tests available that might confirm or refute a migraine diagnosis. Since no test definitively diagnoses migraines, diagnosis typically relies upon symptoms and ruling out other potential headache causes through medical evaluations such as imaging studies or blood tests.

Conventional treatment of migraines involves lifestyle modifications, medications for acute attacks, and preventive medications to lower their frequency and severity. Lifestyle adjustments might include identifying triggers, managing stress levels, sleeping regularly through the night, and adopting healthy diet practices; acute medications include pain relievers, anti-nausea drugs, or triptans (drugs specifically targeting migraines); preventive medicine for those experiencing frequent or severe migraine attacks may include beta-blockers, antidepressants, or antiseizure medications to decrease frequency or intensity of attacks further.

At Mount Dora Family Chiropractic, we specialize in Upper Cervical Chiropractic care – the upper spinal region where the head and neck join. The top two bones in the neck are scientifically and very precisely analyzed (known as the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae). Doctors of Upper Cervical Chiropractic understand that misalignments or subluxations in this part of the spine can interfere with normal nerve pathways, cranial blood, and CSF flow, thus affecting various body systems which may cause or contribute to various health conditions, including migraine headaches.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic care, however, aims at realigning the upper cervical vertebrae to restore proper nerve function and promote overall health. This form of care, along with lifestyle modifications and support, can make a significant difference for those dealing with migraines.

How We Treat Migraines in Mount Dora, FL

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I should see a chiropractor for migraine headaches?

If you have unresolved migraine attacks that haven’t responded to other treatments or home care, getting a proper upper cervical chiropractic spinal evaluation would be prudent. If you have accompanying tension-type headaches, neck pain, upper back or shoulder pain, or muscle tension, these are also red flags for spinal/structural issues best addressed by a great chiropractor.

Is a massage or chiropractic better for migraines?

Both are great but serve different purposes. Massage primarily focuses on the soft tissues (muscles, fascia), improving circulation and reducing stress, whereas chiropractic focuses on the neuro-structural system (the spinal joints and adjacent nerves). Because a chiropractic adjustment affects the nervous system, it will also directly affect muscle tension. Massage is a wonderful compliment to chiropractic care, but not a replacement for it.

What can I do in the meantime to relieve migraine symptoms?

• Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating relaxation practices such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or progressive muscle relaxation into daily practice to relieve stress and promote overall well-being is one way of reducing tension and improving health and well-being.
• Cold or Hot Compress: Applying a cold or hot compress may relieve migraine pain. Find which temperature works best for you by experimenting.
• Adequate Rest and Sleep: To prevent migraine attacks, make sure you’re sleeping enough by setting a consistent sleeping pattern and schedule. A lack of restful slumber or irregular patterns could trigger migraine symptoms.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration may be one of the primary migraine triggers for some sufferers. Aim for 8-12 glasses at least daily.
• Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve migraine symptoms. You can consume ginger in various forms, such as fresh ginger slices, tea with ginger extract, or supplements. Ginger can also help reduce associated nausea.
• Magnesium Supplementation: Magnesium deficiency may play a part in migraine attacks. Food sources rich in magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, and seeds; supplements may be an option; just be sure to consult your doctor first!
• Avoid Trigger Foods: Certain food and drinks, such as chocolate, aged cheese, processed meats, and alcohol, may trigger migraines in some individuals. We suggest keeping a food diary to identify possible migraine triggers and which foods or drinks they should avoid.
• Essential Oils: Many individuals find relief from migraines with essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus oils. Simply dilute several drops in a carrier oil before gently massaging or inhaling their aroma onto temples for immediate results. Be careful not to overdo it!

What’s the best way to sleep with migraines?

If you’re currently symptomatic, the best way to sleep with a migraine is semi-recumbent (as in a recliner chair) with support under your neck. Some contoured pillows are good (some are terrible)—we recommend the Killapilla—or simply put a small, rolled-up towel under your neck. If you can lie flat in bed, put a pillow under your knees to help achieve a more neutral spinal posture. If on your side, it’s important to have just the right amount of pillow height so that your head is not tilted up or down, which will only irritate your neck joints and receptor nerves, possibly aggravating your symptoms.

Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt?

No, a chiropractic adjustment should not hurt. Some technique models use more force to move the vertebrae where there may be an audible “cracking or popping sound”. This is nothing to fear; it’s just gas escaping the joint. That being said, in our office, we utilize a very specialized form of care that does not involve twisting or “cracking” of your spine—it is very gentle, precise, and extremely effective at producing good results for migraine headache conditions. You can learn more on our website’s “Upper Cervical” page. You may also find more information at www.blairchiropractic.com