Migraine Relief
Natural Approaches to Chronic Headache Management
Migraines are a type of chronic headache that affects up to 12% of people in the United States. While medications are commonly used to prevent and manage symptoms, there are effective non-medication treatments available, including specialized physical therapy.
The team at startPTNow provides customized treatment plans to improve muscle function, correct posture, and reduce stress that may trigger your migraines. We offer an active, comprehensive approach to migraine management that addresses the root causes of your pain.
Migraines Q & A
What are migraines?
Migraines are a chronic neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing headaches that typically affect one area of the head. These painful episodes can last from several hours to multiple days and are often accompanied by debilitating symptoms that significantly impact daily life.
Common migraine symptoms include:
While migraines can affect anyone, certain factors increase your risk, including family history, high stress levels, smoking, and hormonal changes. Traditional migraine treatment often focuses on medications, but the team at startPTNow specializes in innovative physical therapy approaches that address the muscular and postural components of migraine pain.
What causes migraines?
Researchers continue to investigate the complex underlying mechanisms of migraines, but current theories suggest they may result from changes in how the brain interacts with the trigeminal nerve—the primary sensory nerve for the head and face. An imbalance in brain chemicals, particularly serotonin, may also play a significant role in migraine development.
At startPTNow, we've observed important physical contributors to migraine pain:
Muscular Factors
- Muscle tightness in neck and shoulders
- Weakness in supporting muscles
- Active trigger points in neck muscles
- Muscle imbalances affecting head position
- Reduced blood flow to head and neck
Structural Factors
- Poor posture and forward head position
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction
- Cervical spine alignment issues
- Nerve compression in upper neck
- Joint stiffness and restricted mobility
Related Conditions
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Cervicogenic headaches
- Upper crossed syndrome
- Text neck from poor device posture
- Chronic stress and tension patterns
Many migraine sufferers we treat also present with TMJ disorders, which can create muscle tightness and trigger points in the neck that contribute to headache patterns. Addressing these physical components is key to effective migraine management.
How can physical therapy help migraines?
At startPTNow, we take a comprehensive approach to migraine treatment, focusing on the muscular problems, postural impairments, and vestibular symptoms that often accompany chronic headaches. Our goal is to address the physical root causes of your migraines while improving your overall function and quality of life.
Before developing your treatment plan, we conduct a thorough initial assessment that includes reviewing your medical history and evaluating the structure and function of your head, neck, and upper back. This comprehensive evaluation allows us to create personalized functional goals and targeted treatments.
Your customized migraine treatment plan may include:
Manual Therapy
- Manual therapy and joint mobilization
- Cervical traction for neck decompression
- Deep friction massage
- Pressure point release techniques
- Myofascial release for tight tissues
Advanced Techniques
- Dry needling for trigger points
- Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
- Electrical stimulation for pain relief
- Therapeutic exercise programs
- Vestibular therapy for dizziness
Education & Training
- Posture training and correction
- Ergonomic assessment and modifications
- Stress management techniques
- Home exercise programs
- Lifestyle modification guidance
We use many of these same effective techniques when treating patients with TMJ disorders, as the goals of therapy are similar: to improve your body mechanics, reduce muscular stress, and decrease the frequency and intensity of pain. Your physical therapist maintains open communication about your condition and treatment options, regularly adjusting your plan and goals based on your progress and feedback.
For a natural, active approach to migraine management or TMJ treatment, call StartPTNow or schedule an appointment online today.
