When you’re dealing with debilitating migraines you may think your first stop would be to visit a neurologist. While a neurologist may put you on medication that can lessen the symptoms once a migraine starts, wouldn’t it be better to find a treatment plan that actually pinpoints the root cause of your migraines and works to stop the cause rather than just treating the symptoms? This is why many people turn to an osteopath for migraine treatment.
Migraines are brutal, sometimes lasting for days. Migraines can make it challenging for people to go about their daily routines, and sufferers truly experience intense and unrelenting pain. If you have migraines, you know the impact these severe headaches have on your life. Fortunately, an osteopath can help.
Treating Migraines with Osteopathic Therapy
Osteopathic medicine provides patients with an alternative therapy that avoids simply using pain medications to mask pain. An osteopath is a holistic practitioner that takes a whole-body approach to treatment. After all, migraines can have several causes, and it’s up to your osteopath to figure out what’s triggering your symptoms. An osteopath will take into account all factors that could be playing a role, ensuring that you get the answers you need as quickly as possible.
There are several strategies and techniques that osteopaths will employ to help alleviate tension and reduce the risk for migraines. These treatment options include:
- Manipulative therapy, which involves stretching the joints and ligaments of the body to improve blood flow and mobility
- Myofascial release, which breaks apart knots in the muscles
- Soft tissue massage, which improves misalignments and imbalances in the soft tissues of the body
- Cranial therapy, which applies gentle pressure to the head to prevent tension-elated migraines
- Ergonomic and posture training and education
Since an osteopath utilizes a more complementary and drug-free way of care, they will also look into your medical history and consider whether natural remedies and supplementation may also benefit your migraines. In some cases, people who take magnesium found some relief from their symptoms, as this mineral helps alleviate muscle tension and promotes relaxation. Of course, you should always speak with your doctor before starting any new vitamins or supplements to make sure that they are right for you.
If you are dealing with migraines and you’re looking for safe, effective, and drug-free relief, an osteopath might just be the ideal doctor for you to turn to for care.