A doctor of chiropractic is a valuable resource for back or neck pain. But did you know chiropractors can also treat conditions such as migraine headaches? At NuView Health Medical, our multidisciplinary team has worked with thousands of New Yorkers over the past 15 years struggling with this often debilitating condition.

Causes of Migraine Headaches

It’s not always clear what causes migraine headaches. Possible theories include irritation of a cranial nerve (trigeminal), changes the level of certain neurotransmitters (like serotonin), or even constriction and dilation of cervical blood vessels.

There is believed to be an environmental and genetic component, in that migraines tend to run in families and can be triggered by factors like stress, food, alcohol, and exposure to bright lights and strong smells. Women also tend to experience migraines more often than men.

Migraine Signs & Symptoms

Migraines can come in a few stages. In the prodromal stage, 1 to 2 days before a migraine occurs, a person may experience: neck stiffness, increased thirst and urination, constipation, food cravings, frequent yawning, or even mood changes.

During the actual migraine attack, a person will typically feel intense, severe, throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. He or she may also experience blurry vision, nausea or vomiting, increased sensitivity to light and sound, and lightheadedness. Migraines can occur with (or be preceded by) a condition known as “aura,” which is essentially an additional set of symptoms including visual disturbances, weakness, numbness in the arms or legs, or even difficulty speaking.

If it sounds intense, you’re right. Migraines can be! You should always seek medical attention if you’re unsure about what’s going on for you and a loved one, especially if it’s your first migraine experience.

How a Chiropractor Can Help Relieve Migraine Pain

If you come to see our Midtown New York chiropractor here at NuView for help with your migraine pain, expect to experience a variety of non-invasive services which can offer drug-free relief:

• Chiropractic adjustments, including spinal decompression therapy, can relieve pressure on the nervous system by restoring normal spinal alignment.

• Adjustments and massage therapy can reduce tension in and strain in the connective tissues in your neck, shoulders, and back, which may trigger an attack.

• Acupuncture has also been shown to trigger healing, restore normal nervous system activation, and reduce pain.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Manhattan Chiropractor

At NuView Health Medical, our chiropractic team (serving the Midtown areas of 10017, 10019, 10020, 10022, and 10036) is ready to help you find effective relief from your frustrating migraine headaches. To schedule an appointment with a doctor near Rockefeller Center, contact our clinic today at (212) 588-0707.