Table of Contents
Facts About Migraines
While migraines affect both genders, women are more likely to suffer from the condition. Thirty-seven million Americans complain of migraines. Out of that number, 27 million are women. Not only are women more likely to have migraines, episodes last longer and are reportedly more chronic than reported in men.
Research has shown that the menstrual cycle and migraines may be linked, although the logistics of that link are unclear. During different stages of the cycle, hormone levels change and that could be what triggers a migraine episode. For many women, these episodes subside after menopause.
The Endocrine and Nervous System Roles in Migraines
Hormone production and release of hormones, reproductive function, and metabolism regulation are a few functions overseen by the endocrine system. Mood and sleep are also under the responsibility of the endocrine system. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle fall within the realm of this specialized system. The nervous system is over the endocrine system as a whole. The link between the nervous system and the endocrine system is something familiar to upper cervical chiropractors.
Through careful examination, these specially trained chiropractors can determine if there is a subluxation or misalignment of the upper cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2). When these bones are out of place, decreased nervous system function can occur. Should normal function be interrupted, it can cause disruption in other systems, such as the endocrine system. This neurological dysfunction is suspected to be the underlying cause of many migraines. Careful adjustments guide the structures back into proper position.
Once the subluxations in this area of the spine are corrected, the pressure put on the nervous system is released. For many migraine sufferers, improvements are seen after only one or two adjustments. Those with chronic headaches have also benefited from this natural approach to the problem.
References:
- Migraine research foundation. [homepage on the Internet]. 2015 [cited 2015 Apr 17]. Available from: Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Web site: http://www.migraineresearchfoundation.org/Migraine%20in%20Women.html
- Goadsby PJ, Hutchinson S, Peterlin BL. Migraine fact sheet |womenshealth.gov. [homepage on the Internet]. 2012 [cited 2015 Apr 17]. Available from: Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Web site: http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/migraine.html
3. Elster EL. Upper cervical chiropractic care for a patient with chronic migraine headaches with an appendix summarizing an additional 100 headache cases. J Vert Sublux Res 2003;AUG(3):1-10.
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