Headaches: Migraine

What is migraine?

Migraine is the second most common headache which is characterised by severe throbbing and pulsating pain on one side of the head.

How migraine happens?

Migraine is a condition associated with abnormal neural and vascular changes in the brain and spinal cord. This explains why we usually have weird neurological symptoms other than pain. Many things can induce migraine. Each sufferer may have a different mix of triggers of migraine. Some common triggers are as follows: stress, sleep deprivation, weather changes, head and neck injury, certain foods (such as MSG, coffee, alcohol, processed meat), strong light/ smell, skipping meals, menstruation.

What are the common symptoms of migraine?

• Usually one-sided throbbing headache

• Pulsating quality of pain

• Pain worse with physical exertion

• Nausea and dizziness

• Increased sensitivity to light, noise and smell

• Presence of aura before headache. An aura can include visual disturbances, such as zig-zag lines, flashes of light or blind sports, or other disturbances, such as tingling on one side of the face or in an arm or leg and difficulty speaking.

What are the treatment options for migraine?

• Migraine medication including triptan, ergotamine

• Physiotherapy to help desensitise overactive lower brainstem with manual techniques and exercises

• Psychotherapy to help reduce stress

• Hormonal therapy for women whose migraines are associated with their menstrual cycle

Who can help with cervicogenic headaches?

• GP

• Physiotherapist

• Neurologist

• Psychologist

What are the current evidences about physiotherapy for managing migraine?

A high-quality study conducted by Chaibi et al (2011) titled Manual therapies for migraine: a

systematic review suggested that physiotherapy, relaxation and massage therapy might be

equally effective as propranolol and topiramate in the prophylactic management of migraine.

Another study by Biondi (2005) titled Physical treatments for headache: a structured review concluded that physiotherapy is most effective for the treatment of migraine when combined with other treatments such as thermal biofeedback, relaxation training, and exercise.

How can Revamp Physiotherapy help?

At Revamp, our skilled physiotherapists believe in a holistic approach and genuinely want to hear your concerns. We, first, carefully assess your symptoms, identify all possible contributing factors to your headache. Then, we will provide you with a tailored evidence-based treatment plan which usually consist a mix of hands-on therapy, exercise, dry needling, Pilates, shockwave therapy, taping and postural advices to help resolve your concerns.

Disclaimer: All information provided above is general in nature and for educational purpose. You should consult your Doctor and Physiotherapist for specific strategies tailored to your circumstances.