Did you know that migraines are the third most common disease worldwide? In fact, more people suffer from migraines than from diabetes, epilepsy and asthma combined. In the U.S., over 12 percent of the population experiences migraines and a percentage of those suffer from chronic migraines, or 15 migraines or more per month. Migraines are debilitating and commonly lead to loss of work and missed time with family and friends. As doctors, researchers and scientists continue to identify causes of migraine and how to best care for those who have them, awareness is at an all-time high. As such, June has been designated National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month to help people understand that a migraine is more than a headache and to help migraine sufferers improve their quality of life.
Symptoms & Triggers
Throbbing, aching, extreme sensitivity to sound or light, blurred vision, nausea… These are some of the all too familiar symptoms as a migraine headache sets in. While some people can identify personal triggers that bring on migraine pain, for others, it’s unclear. From hormonal changes to certain types of foods, medications, changes in sleep patterns, weather and yes, stress, the list of migraine triggers is long. Recently, arthritis has received some attention as a possible source of migraines with the consensus being that in fact, arthritis and more specifically, arthritis of the spine can indeed be the cause of a migraine attack.
The Arthritis / Migraine Connection
Caused by inflammation of the joints, arthritis is a painful condition that can cause swelling, pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage between the bones, resulting in the characteristic pain, swelling and stiffness of arthritis. In some people the cartilage wears away completely causing their bones to rub together; in others, bones begin to break down and bone spurs may occur. In both scenarios, pain from the source often radiates to the head. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease, causes the immune system to attack the joints, in turn causing inflammation, pain, swelling and narrowing of the space between the bones. As with osteoarthritis, the back pain associated often radiates to the head.
Treating Migraine Pain
For patients who understand their migraine triggers, lifestyle changes may help manage the painful days. For those who experience migraines due to arthritis or other underlying medical conditions, a more comprehensive treatment plan is essential to managing pain and increasing well-being. Chiropractic Neurology is a safe, effective and drug-free way to manage the pain associated with arthritis and with migraines. Using cutting edge technology, such as PEMF therapy, and a personalized approach to care, your Chiropractic Neurologist is an expert in harnessing the power of the brain’s ability to form new connections and correct imbalances in the body.
Do you suffer from migraine pain? Would you like to learn more about how Chiropractic Neurology can help? Visit our blog to learn more about the treatment options available and contact the team at Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center for your consultation.
Leave a Reply