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I’ve been a Draper upper cervical chiropractor for many years now, and I’ve dealt with numerous migraine cases. The common notion with this condition is that migraines are just severe headaches. The reality, however, is far from that.
Migraines are neurological in nature. They come in phases, and the pain levels vary from mild to severe. A migraine usually comes with other symptoms that can be debilitating to those who suffer from them. Many people aren’t able to carry out their daily tasks because of the discomfort brought on by this condition.
I’m writing this article based on my experience dealing with migraine sufferers. If you’re one of them, I will also provide a natural relief option that could change your life for the better. After reading this, I’m hoping you’ll have a better understanding of this condition, and at the very least, find better ways to deal with it.
The Four Migraine Phases
Migraine attacks have four phases, but not all happen during every migraine episode. All of the symptoms vary by person and can affect the same person differently during each episode.
The Prodrome Migraine Phase
Around 60% of migraine sufferers experience prodromal or premonitory symptoms. They may unfold as early as two days before to as late as two hours before a migraine attack.
Symptoms may not necessarily include an aura, but patients may feel depression or extreme happiness, moodiness, and specific food cravings. Others also have an extra sensitivity to smells or noise. Physical manifestations include stiff neck muscles and diarrhea or constipation.
The Aura Migraine Phase
The aura phase brings a set of symptoms that gradually happen over a few minutes. It usually occurs an hour before the headache commences, and signs are mainly visual.
The visual auras are the most common. They begin near the center of vision and spread out. A skewing also happens in part of the visual field that flickers and disrupts the ability to drive or read. The affected individual may have zigzagging lines to the side of vision that looks like walls of a castle.
The aura phase can also cause the disappearance of the field of vision partly. Some people experience blurry vision.
The sensory auras are the second most common. During this phase, the individual may experience a pins and needles sensation from the hands to the nose or mouth. Numbness may also set in once the tingling goes away. Other times, auditory hallucinations or delusions occur.
In some worse cases, people experience speech or language problems during sensory auras. There are also vertigo symptoms where the patients feel an uncontrollable spinning sensation.
The Pain Migraine Phase
The pain phase is the most recognized phase of a migraine attack. The severity usually varies from moderate to severe and happens on just one side of the head. In at least 40% of cases, pain occurs on both sides of the head, accompanied by neck pain.
Other symptoms include fatigue, irritability, and sensitivity to light, sound, and noise. Some people also go through episodes of nausea and vomiting.
Physical activity also worsens the pain during this phase.
The Postdrome Migraine Phase
The postdrome phase usually comes after the person experiences the headache pain. People who’ve experienced this phase compare it to having a hangover after a night of heavy drinking.
Similar symptoms from previous phases appear, such as fatigue and mood changes. Cognitive issues, weakness, and gastrointestinal problems also surface during the postdrome period.
Migraine sufferers share different experiences during their respective attacks. Some may feel extremely happy and rested while others feel depressed and unwell.
The same person may also experience episodes of both happiness and sadness.
A Natural Form of Relief for Migraines
Recent studies reveal a connection between migraines and misalignments in the upper two bones of the neck, called the C1 and C2 vertebrae. Misalignments usually happen because of minor trauma such as tripping and falling or significant trauma from accidents that result in whiplash.
Once the C1 and C2 vertebrae move out of position, the brainstem endures unnecessary pressure. This causes the inaccurate sending of messages to the brain. This can lead to a migraine attack. The misalignment can also affect the nerves and blood vessels in the neck.
Here at my clinic, Source Chiropractic and Wellness in Draper, UT, I provide migraine relief for my patients using a precise and gentle technique to encourage the bones of the neck to shift back to their proper alignment. I stay away from methods that involve any twisting or popping of the spine or neck.
Instead, I utilize more natural ways that support the body’s natural healing process surrounding the correction. The best part is, these adjustment techniques are designed to have long-lasting results, so you get your money’s worth.
As noted by case studies and feedback from our satisfied patients, they’ve seen improvements in their condition, making it a lot easier to deal with. In turn, they live healthier lives with fewer hassles. They see marks of progress in as few as one or two adjustments.
So if you’re looking for an experienced Draper upper cervical chiropractor who is familiar with migraines, contact me to schedule a complimentary consultation. For questions or more information, call us at (385) 237-3110.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Cheney, call our Draper office at 385-331-7035. You can also click one of the buttons below.
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