Migraines are more than just headaches; they can be debilitating and afect your ability to function.
Understanding why you get migraines and exploring efective treatments is key to managing them.
Migraines can be triggered by various factors, including:
Stress: High stress levels can lead to migraines.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fuctuations, particularly in women, can trigger migraines.
Dietary Factors: Certain foods and drinks, like cafeine and alcohol, can cause migraines.
Upper Cervical Spine Issues: Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can interfere with nerve function and blood fow, contributing to migraines.
An often overlooked cause of migraines is head and neck injuries. These injuries can lead to abnormal function of the spinal venous plexus, a network of veins in the spine responsible for draining blood from the spinal cord. When the spinal venous plexus does not function properly, it can impair spinal venous drainage. This issue is thought to arise due to autonomic dysfunction, which can occur secondary to spinal cord ischemia (reduced blood fow to the spinal cord). This dysfunction leads to a cascade of efects that can contribute to migraines. A signifcant consequence of impaired spinal venous drainage is the decreased ability of the cranium to accommodate volume fuctuations. Normally, the cranial system can adjust to changes in volume, but when this capacity is reduced, it creates a state of decreased intracranial compliance. This means that the brain and its surrounding structures are less able to handle changes in pressure and volume, potentially triggering migraine headaches.
Upper cervical chiropractic care aims to correct misalignments in the top vertebrae, which can alleviate pressure on the nervous system and improve blood fow to the brain. A study by the National Upper Cervical Association, demonstrated the role of the atlas (C1) vertebrae in migraines and how atlas realignment can reduce migraine frequency and intensity (NUCCA 2015).
Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Consistent sleep patterns can help prevent migraines.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger migraines, so drink plenty of water.
Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Regular Chiropractic Care: Consistent Upper Cervical Care can help keep migraines at bay.
Migraines can be challenging to manage, but understanding their causes and exploring upper cervical chiropractic care can provide relief. If you sufer from migraines, consider scheduling a consultation with us to see how we can help you reduce their impact on your life. To schedule a consultation, complete the contact form or reach out to +44 7879149055.
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