Migraines

What is a migraine?

Migraines are believed to be a complex genetic neurological disorder.

Diagnostic criteria include; 

• At least 5 headache attacks that last 4–72 hours and the attacks must have had at least 2 of the following characteristics: 

• Unilateral location (one sided) 

• Pulsating quality 

• Moderate or severe pain intensity 

• Aggravation by or causing avoidance of routine physical activity 

• In addition, during the headache the patient must have had at least 1 of the following: Nausea and/or vomiting Photophobia and phonophobia

What causes a migraine?

The current research around migraines indicates that these could be the associated causes of a migraine.

• Pain nerves in the head and the neck are irritated 

• Blood vessels in the head spasm

• Inflammation is present in the affected part of the brain

Types of Migraines?

There are a variety of different types of migraines that can cause a slight variation in their location and characteristics. 

• Vestibular migraine 

• Ocular migraine

•  Hormonal migraine 

• Silent migraine 

• Sinus Migraine 

• Exercise induced migraine

Migraine Triggers

The list of migraine triggers can vary from person to person. Listed below are the most common triggers people experience. 

• Dehydration 

• Caffeine 

• Alcohol

•  Exercise 

• Hormonal changes 

• Sleep 

• Foods eg. chocolate 

• Stress 

• Environment eg. Dust, pollen

Management options

As every person has a different variety of triggers, they will also usually have a multi-faceted approach to management. Commonly practised management strategies can include: 

• Lie down in a quiet, dark, room. 

• Place a cold cloth or ice pack over your forehead or behind your neck. 

• Sleep 

• Drink water 

• Speak to your GP about medication options and possible referral to a Neurologist

How can Osteopathy help?

Osteopathic manual therapy can assist to manage migraines through manual hands on therapy, education and advice on lifestyle factors. 

• Soft tissue manipulation to decrease stiffness and tension in the muscular system. 

• Improve blood flow circulation through lymphatic massage. 

• Offering exercise prescription advice and management.

• Assisting the patient to identify associated triggers 

• Lifestyle advice; for example stress management techniques. 

Migraine management requires a multi disciplinary approach and as Osteopath’s we are here to support, educate and guide you in the best direction to best manage your symptoms.