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Cervical Migraine: What It Is and How to Relieve It

Have you ever woken up with a throbbing headache that seems to come from your neck? You could be dealing with a cervical migraine, a type of pain that is often confused with common migraines but has a different origin. This problem can seriously affect your quality of life, but there's good news: chiropractic can be an effective, natural and non-invasive solution for pain relief. In this article, we'll explore what cervical migraine is, its symptoms, types, and how chiropractic can help you regain your well-being.

What is Cervical Migraine

Cervical migraine, also known as cervicogenic headache, is a type of headache that originates in structures in the neck, such as the cervical vertebrae, muscles, or nerves. Unlike common migraines, its root cause it is not related to neurological or vascular factors, but rather to biomechanical or tension problems in the cervical spine.

The pain usually starts at the base of the skull and can radiate to the forehead, temples, or even the eyes. Many times it can be related to poor posture, stress, previous injuries such as whiplash or prolonged muscle tension, all these conditions that affect the cervical area and trigger this type of migraine.

Cervical Migraine Symptoms

Identifying cervical migraine symptoms can be challenging, as they are often confused with other types of headaches. However, here's a list of the most common signs to help you differentiate them:

  • One-sided pain: The pain tends to be concentrated on one side of the head, although it can vary.
  • Pain that starts in the neck: Usually the discomfort occurs at the base of the skull and rises up to the head.
  • Neck stiffness: Difficulty moving the neck or feeling of constant tension
  • Pain that worsens with certain movements: Turning, tilting your head, or maintaining a static posture for a long time can intensify discomfort.
  • Sensitivity to touch: The base of the skull may feel especially sensitive or painful on contact.
  • Secondary symptoms: Dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, or even ringing in the ears can accompany cervical migraine.
  • Absence of aura: Unlike classic migraines, cervical migraines usually have no previous visual disturbances.

Types of Cervical Migraine

Although the term “cervical migraine” is widely used, there are several factors that can lead to different manifestations of the problem. Here are some of the most common types:

  1. Postural cervical migraine: Related to prolonged poor posture, such as spending hours in front of a computer or mobile phone.
  2. Migraine due to muscle tension: Caused by contractures in the muscles of the neck and shoulders.
  3. Traumatic cervical migraine: Derived from injuries such as whiplash after traffic accidents.
  4. Degenerative cervical migraine: Associated with structural problems in the spine such as herniated discs or cervical osteoarthritis.

How Chiropractic Can Help with Cervical Migraines

Chiropractic is a discipline that focuses on optimize the function of the nervous system and spine, making it a powerful tool for treating cervical migraine. Through specific, safe and non-invasive adjustments, chiropractors seek to relieve pressure on the cervical vertebrae, improve mobility and reduce inflammation in affected tissues.

Benefits of Chiropractic for Cervical Migraine:

  • Correction of misalignments: Chiropractic adjustments help correct vertebral subluxations or imbalances that may be compressing nerves or limiting mobility.
  • Reduction of muscle tension: By releasing the vertebrae, the neck muscles also relax, reducing stiffness and pain.
  • Improved posture: A chiropractor can identify postural problems that contribute to cervical migraine and work on correcting them.
  • Relapse prevention: Regular maintenance sessions help prevent new episodes of cervical migraine.
  • Personalized approach: Care is adapted to the individual needs of the patient, taking into account their symptoms and lifestyle.

In addition, specialized techniques such as Webster method, especially useful in pregnant women, or the approach Pediatric SOT, are additional tools that stand out within chiropractic to address different types of patients with cervical migraine.

Cervical Migraine and Chiropractic FAQs

How can I tell if my headache is a cervical migraine?

If your pain starts in the neck, worsens with specific movements, or is accompanied by cervical stiffness, it's possible that it's a cervical migraine. Consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

Is Chiropractic Care Painful?

No, chiropractic adjustments are generally painless. Although you might hear a “crack” sound, this is simply the release of gas in the joints.

How long does it take to see results with chiropractic?

This varies depending on each person and the severity of their condition. Some patients notice improvements after just a few sessions, while others require longer care.

Can Chiropractic Prevent Cervical Migraines?

Yes, regular chiropractic maintenance sessions can help maintain cervical alignment and prevent future episodes.

Conclusion

Cervical migraine is a complex problem that can significantly affect your daily life, but you don't have to resign yourself to living with pain. Thanks to chiropractic, it's possible address the root of the problem in a natural and effective way, improving not only your symptoms, but also your overall quality of life. If you're ready to leave the discomfort behind and regain your well-being, consider giving chiropractic a try. Your neck and head will thank you!

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