Migraines are extremely painful and can be debilitating for many patients. If you are not able to find a treatment that works, you may be in pain for hours or even days. In many cases, doctors will prescribe medication to help with migraine pain, prevent attacks or even stop attacks while they are occurring. However, this medication does not always work. In addition, some patients may experience side effects that make this medication an undesirable treatment option. Below are three alternative, drug-free treatment options to help with migraines.
1. Exercise
Obviously, you won't want to exercise in the middle of a migraine attack. In fact, engaging in physical activity when you are experiencing an attack may make your pain worse or extend the duration of the attack. However, participating in physical activity on a regular basis between attacks may reduce the number of attacks you experience and/or limit their severity. In addition, exercise typically reduces stress and improves the quality of your sleep, which improves your overall health.
2. Magnesium supplementation
Studies have shown that magnesium plays a role in the development of migraines. For patients who have a magnesium deficiency, taking a magnesium supplement may reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. As with any supplement, it is important to talk to your doctor before you begin taking magnesium. Always take your supplement as recommended and report any side effects to your doctor.
3. Chiropractic care
Many patients with migraines find that visits to the chiropractor can dramatically improve their symptoms. Adjustments, chiropractic massage, and other treatments address some of the root causes of migraines, making these attacks less frequent and less severe. Your chiropractor may even be able to help you find relief from pain in the middle of a migraine attack. Chiropractic care can help with other types of headaches as well, including chronic tension headaches.
Living with migraines is difficult, but the right treatments can help you limit your attacks and maximize your quality of life. If you want to avoid taking medication, many different alternative treatments are available to help you manage your symptoms. In many cases, you will need more than one type of treatment to control your condition effectively. To schedule a consultation or treatment with an experienced chiropractor, please contact Pinnacle Health Systems today. You can also book an appointment with our office online.
