Natural Migraine Relief Charleston, SC

According to the latest figures, approximately 38 million people in the United States experience migraines¹. Although some individuals use the term “migraine” and “headache” synonymously, there are major differences between these conditions. Migraines are so severe that they cause sufferers to miss work, experience a loss in productivity, restrict their daily activities, and even send some to the emergency room. 

Learn more about migraines, and how chiropractic care can deliver natural migraine relief to those in Charleston, SC with the condition.

What are the symptoms of a migraine?

Migraines are far more than a simple headache. To emphasize this point, one study found that 91% of sufferers report that they cannot function normally, or even have to miss work, for the duration of their migraines. In addition to a severe headache, those with the condition typically experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Symptoms prior to the full migraine event (several days to one hour in advance). These symptoms include vision disturbances, constipation, frequent yawning, stiff neck, food cravings, muscle weakness, hearing noises, speech difficulties, and mood changes. Many sufferers do not have any pre-migraine symptoms at all.

• During a migraine attack (which can last a few hours to several days), those with the condition can have nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, smell, and sound, muscle pain, and lightheadedness.

• Once the main portion of a migraine is finished, many individuals often experience what are known as post-drome symptoms. These symptoms can include weakness, muscle soreness, dizziness, confusion, continued sensitivity to light and sound, and mood changes.

What causes migraines?

While there are many theories that exist, there is no one, known cause of the condition. It is currently believed that chemical imbalances in the brain, hormonal factors, environmental factors, and genetic factors all play a role in whether or not someone develops migraines. Additionally, certain people have specific triggers that spark the onset of a migraine. These triggers include alcohol, certain foods (especially those containing aspartame and MSG), stress, strong smells (such as perfume), physical exertion, changes in the weather, and changes in sleep patterns.

Additionally, certain individuals are more at risk than others to develop migraines. Women and those with a family history are much more likely to develop the condition.

How do migraines impact those with the condition?

The Migraine Research Foundation has reported the following statistics regarding the condition:

• About 12% of the population experience regular migraines.

• 90% of those who suffer with the condition have a family history of migraines.

• “Every 10 seconds, someone in the U.S. goes to the emergency room complaining of head pain, and approximately 1.2 million visits are for acute migraine attacks.”

• Medication overuse is a major problem for those with migraines and can cause the condition to become chronic.

• People who experience chronic migraines also frequently suffer from anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.

What are the conventional treatments for migraines?

To help prevent the need for migraine treatment, there are many practitioners who encourage patients to pay attention to potential triggers of their migraines. If one or more triggers can be identified, it is advised that individuals make every effort to avoid them.

However, despite even the best efforts to avoid known triggers, migraines can still occur. To treat the onset of the condition, preventative and pain-relieving medications are typically used. While some of these medications can be obtained over-the-counter, the majority require a prescription and can have negative side effects.

Can chiropractic care help alleviate migraines?

For individuals who seek natural migraine relief, there is one exceptional option. Chiropractic care has been found to be incredibly effective in treating migraines. This is true for individuals who are experiencing a migraine, and for those who desire a long-term preventative solution. Learn more about chiropractic and migraines on the ACA website. 

In fact, chiropractic adjustments are not only safe, but they also come with far fewer side effects, and significantly less adverse events, when compared with medication². By aligning the body through spinal manipulation, studies have shown that chiropractic care can significantly reduce the number of migraines experienced.

Natural Migraine Relief Facts To Consider

When booking chiropractic care to treat your migraines, there are other therapies that can be applied in addition to your adjustment. Massage, stretching, heat/ice, and other treatments can be used to soothe and/or prevent migraines.

Ready to see how chiropractic care can provide natural migraine relief? Schedule your appointment today!

Have questions about migraines?  Read our migraines Q&A. 

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Author

Brad Gorski DC, FSBT At Elite Family Chiropractic in Charleston, South Carolina, Dr. Brad Gorski is a top-ranked chiropractor offering effective treatment options for back pain, knee pain, neck and shoulder pain, sciatica, migraines, pinched nerves, herniated discs, and more. Dr. Gorski received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in 2008. He has completed extensive post-graduate training, becoming qualified in Hospital Based Spine Care, MRI Interpretation Review, and Trauma while also completing a Fellowship in Spinal Biomechanics and Trauma. He provides chiropractic care and helps his patients achieve their goal of optimum health and wellness.