If you’ve ever had a painful headache, a migraine is even worse. Not only do you get severe throbbing, but the discomfort can affect your entire head, followed by nausea and blurred vision. For some people, a migraine is a once-a-year occurrence that lasts momentarily, but for others, it’s a long-term struggle that puts stress on daily life.

Those dealing with migraines must take precautions to ensure that an episode won’t surface. From avoiding certain environments to taking regular medications, migraine sufferers have a lot to put up with in order to stay healthy, and seeing an upper cervical chiropractor may be a great way to lessen the effects of a migraine and find relief.

If you’re wondering how you can treat your migraines and manage pain, here are three ways an upper cervical chiropractor can help.

1. Massaging Trigger Points

Within the human body are trigger points located in the back, shoulders, neck, and head. In upper cervical chiropractic medicine, these points are manipulated through a technique called neuromuscular massage therapy.

An upper cervical chiropractor uses this therapy to perform a deep tissue massage that releases strain on affected muscles. A combination of pressure and friction provide relief to the nerves that connect with the brain, causing migraine pain to weaken and lessen the odds of future episodes.

2. Applying Spinal Manipulation

Along with the benefits of massage, those suffering from migraine pain can find comfort through a process called spinal manipulation.

Similar to applying pressure on trigger points, spinal manipulation focuses on specific joints within the spine. An upper cervical chiropractor uses his or her hands or a special tool to place force on the cervical spine (below the nape). In some cases, patients may experience a popping or releasing sensation during a treatment, but these reactions are normal when executing a realignment. After the session, patients can enjoy reduced inflammation in the joints, relieved pressure, and better nerve functionality, all which help alleviate migraine pain.

3. Holistic Approach

In addition to the therapies listed above, a holistic approach that chiropractors follow involves a multidisciplinary care intervention.

Contrary to popular belief, upper cervical chiropractic medicine isn’t just about cracking necks and pressing joints. A multidisciplinary strategy incorporates several aspects of physical therapy, nutrition, stress control, and relaxation methods to lessen the affects of a migraine and increase preventive odds. Improving the quality of life is important when it comes to managing migraines. Rather than trying to manage pain with new medications or other severe treatments, upper cervical chiropractors investigate lifestyle factors that contribute to one’s total physical and mental health. More often than not, tackling issues at a fundamental level leads to promising results down the line.

How to Use Upper Cervical Chiropractor in Long-Term Migraine Pain Treatment

Seeing an upper cervical chiropractor one time for migraine treatment may relieve symptoms at the moment, but prolonged comfort requires frequent visits to achieve sustainable results.

In fact, nearly 25 percent of those experiencing migraines notice a 90 percent reduction in symptoms after receiving upper cervical chiropractic help, according to scientific research, so seeking regular treatments can make a huge impact on your daily life. Depending on how much pain or discomfort you have, seeing an upper cervical chiropractor once or twice a month may be enough to ward off episodes, but typically, sessions once a week are ideal to see effective changes.

At upper cervical chiropractic of arizona, Dr. Anthony Montoya specializes in assisting those with chronic suffering. Whether you’re dealing with sciatic nerve pain or migraine headaches, he offers personalized treatment plans that produce consistent relief.

Are you ready to get rid of migraines? Schedule an appointment today!