Migraine Treatment
Understanding Migraine: A Holistic Approach to Treatment
Migraine isn’t just a headache—it’s a complex neurological disorder that affects millions worldwide, causing significant disability and impacting daily life. We believe both physical and psycho-social aspects of migraines should be addressed allowing for better resolution of symptoms.
Unpacking the Complexity of Migraine
Migraine manifests as recurrent episodes of moderate to severe headaches, often accompanied by a range of neurological and systemic symptoms. Pain is caused by nerve fibers activation within the walls of the blood vessels traveling within the meninges. Meninges are the layers of membranes that protect the brain and the spinal cord.
This may include:
- Light sensitivity
- Photophobia
- Sound sensitivity
- Phonophobia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Cognitive impairments
Sometime as minor as a cough or sneeze can significantly worsen pain levels. Many individuals report fatigue and systemic weakness after migraine episodes. See here for more including risk factors.
The Role of Central Sensitization
Research indicates that migraine involves abnormal neuronal networks in the central and peripheral nervous systems, leading to heightened sensitivity and altered sensory thresholds. This phenomenon, known as central sensitization, contributes to increased pain perception and can extend beyond the head to affect other parts of the body.
Integrating Physiological and Psychosocial Insights
Recent advancements in functional imaging have highlighted increased activity in cortical brain regions associated with pain processing among migraine sufferers. Additionally, psycho-social factors such as anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and fear of movement play significant roles in exacerbating migraine symptoms and increasing disability.
Tailoring Treatment for Individual Needs
Here at Body Harmony Physical Therapy, we emphasize a personalized approach to migraine management. By understanding each patient’s unique somatosensory and psycho-social profiles, we can tailor treatment plans that address specific triggers and symptoms effectively.
Key Components of Our Approach:
- Somatosensory Assessment: We conduct detailed evaluations to assess sensory thresholds and identify areas of dysfunction, helping us pinpoint the root causes of your migraine symptoms. For some individuals migraine can be steaming from pelvic floor dysfunction which we specialize in helping with.
- Psycho-social Support: Our therapy integrates strategies to manage anxiety, pain catastrophizing, and fear of movement, promoting overall well-being and resilience.
- Holistic Care: Beyond traditional therapies, we explore innovative treatments that may include biofeedback, specialized manual therapy techniques, mindfulness techniques, and lifestyle modifications tailored to your needs.
Not sure where to start?
Consult with us today. We offer a free call back for questions or concerns you may have relating to migraine or any physical therapy ailment. Evaluations in New York State do not require a doctors prescription. Our treatment sessions are for up to one hour and held in private treatment rooms (not curtained off areas within a busy gym).
