According to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraines are the third most prevalent illness in the world, and they affect 39 million Americans. If you suffer from frequent or chronic migraines, it makes sense to look for drug-free solutions so you can get long-term relief without dependency on pain medications.
The expert medical and chiropractic team here at Accelerated Medical, at the base of the Summit in Elko, Nevada, makes it their mission to help people of all ages get relief from migraine pain as naturally as possible. If you’re searching for drug-free solutions, take a few minutes to read about four remedies you might not have considered.
Make nutritional changes
As a migraine sufferer, you probably know that certain foods are migraine triggers.
Common culprits include:
- Dairy products
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Artificial sweeteners
- Sulfites in wine
- Nitrates in processed deli meats
- Cured or aged foods
- Pickled or fermented foods
- Alcohol
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
We can help you determine which foods are contributing to your headache pain and other migraine symptoms so you can eliminate those foods and choose ones that combat pain instead.
Many people notice a difference when they modify their diet and consume more foods that can help prevent migraine pain, such as spinach – rich in vitamin B – and fatty fish – rich in omega-3 fats. Additionally, a common trigger for migraines is dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your day.
Reduce your head, neck, and jaw pain with chiropractic adjustments
Structural misalignments in your upper spine can lead to tense neck and head muscles. Chiropractic adjustments realign your spine and neck, relieve jaw pain, and optimize the nerve pathways connecting to your brain.
We know that migraines are a neurological issue, so any step you take to help decrease nerve compression – including hands-on chiropractic care and physical therapies – can be an effective part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan.
Depending on your individual needs and symptoms, we may also recommend any of the following:
- Massage therapy
- Spinal decompression
- Hydrotherapy
You may notice a difference after just a few adjustments, or you may find that incorporating regular chiropractic care into your migraine treatment plan reduces the number of migraines you experience over the long term.
Breathe deeply and reduce stress
Deep breathing techniques and mindful meditation go hand in hand with stress reduction. Since stress can be a migraine trigger or make your symptoms worse, it behooves you to incorporate some stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine. It can be as simple as learning how to breathe deeply into your diaphragm, finding 15 minutes to meditate before you begin a stressful day, or practicing a variety of relaxation techniques on a regular basis.
Get regular exercise
Incorporating regular exercise into your life has many benefits. Not only does exercise help you feel better physically and help you lose weight, but it can also help you reduce stress, and therefore may reduce migraine frequency and minimize pain.
Light cardio, such as walking your dog around the neighborhood after a busy work day, yoga, and other types of stretching exercises, are effective ways to minimize headaches. Just be sure you’re staying hydrated while you work out since dehydration can trigger a migraine.
Everyone’s migraine pain, frequency, and triggers are different, so we’re here to help you figure out the best combination of treatments for your particular needs. We want to help you reduce symptoms and live a healthier, happier life, as free from migraine pain as possible.
To take the first step toward a more natural approach to pain relief, give us a call at 775-753-7387 today, or book an appointment online.