Anyone who has to live with the excruciating pain of chronic migraines understands the extremely negative impact they can have on your life. From decreased productivity at work to being unable to spend quality time with your family and friends, migraines can take a lot of the joy and energy out of your life. While the bottle of pain medication may be the first thing you go to for relief, did you know that physical therapy can be a highly effective form of treatment for chronic headaches? 

While the causes of migraines are still being fully understood by medical researchers, they are believed to be strongly related to decreased blood flow to the head. Factors such as posture, stress and nutrition are also suspected to be significant contributors. As part of a comprehensive treatment plan, a physical therapist can perform techniques and help you learn methods that are designed to prevent and treat chronic migraines.

As you take a moment to read this guide, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us regarding any questions you may have.  

How can a physical therapist treat chronic migraines? 

As experts in the structure and mechanics of the human body, physical therapists are trained to identify and treat many of the factors that contribute to chronic migraines. Your initial physical therapy appointment should consist of a physical examination, discussion of your symptoms and any activities that cause migraine onset, and a review of your medical history. 

Treatment can consist of techniques like trigger point therapy, manual therapy and therapeutic exercises. Patients can also receive education regarding lifestyle factors that can help prevent and manage migraines and other types of severe headaches. Together, these physical therapy methods can work together in the following ways: 

• Strengthen muscles and connective tissue to better support the neck and head while preventing constriction of blood flow
• Improve posture and range of motion 
• Relax tense muscles and break up painful bundles of tissue
• Improve nutrition and hydration habits
• Promote a more ergonomically friendly workspace

Although there is no quick and simple cure for chronic migraines, committing to a physical therapy program has the potential to significantly decrease their frequency and severity. 

Reach out to Rehab Access today

At our state-of-the-art clinics, patients looking for migraine relief can meet with our therapists for highly individualized, one-on-one care. Don’t wait for your next headache to strike; contact us today to learn more and schedule your initial appointment.