Migraine Relief: The Chiropractic Approach
Migraines steal time, energy, and freedom. They’re not “just headaches”—they can derail your work, family life, and ability to thrive. Many people are now looking to chiropractic care as part of a natural, drug-sparing solution.
Symptoms of Migraines
Throbbing or pulsating pain
Nausea and vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
Blurred vision
Aura (visual disturbances, such as flashing lights or blind spots, before the headache)
Numbness or tingling
Weakness
Fatigue
Confusion
Neck stiffness
What the Research Says
Spinal manipulation may help: A 2019 meta-analysis found that chiropractic adjustments were linked to fewer migraine days and reduced pain intensity. The benefits were small to moderate, and study quality varied.
Placebo also matters: A 2017 sham-controlled RCT showed improvement across all groups (real adjustments, sham, usual care), with no significant difference in migraine days. This highlights the power of patient expectations and the therapeutic encounter.
Exercise is powerful: A randomized trial showed that aerobic exercise (40 min, 3×/week) reduced migraine frequency about as effectively as topiramate or relaxation therapy.
Safety is important: Large population studies show chiropractic care does not increase stroke risk compared with visiting a primary care provider. We always screen for red flags before care.
Why Your Neck Matters (even with a “brain” headache)
Migraine lives in the brain, but the neck can amplify it. Cervical joints and muscles share pathways with the trigeminal system that drives migraine pain. When the neck is stiff, irritated, or deconditioned, it can lower your threshold for attacks. Our job is to calm that musculoskeletal noise so your nervous system has less to overreact to.
How Chiropractic Helps with Migraines
Migraines start in the brain, but the neck often contributes to pain and triggers. Chiropractic care focuses on:
• Restoring motion with adjustments or gentle mobilization of the upper and lower neck
• Releasing tension in muscles through soft-tissue therapy
• Strengthening support with targeted exercise for the neck and upper back
• Lifestyle coaching on posture, sleep, hydration, relief tools and stress
The best results come from a multimodal plan—chiropractic care, exercise, and lifestyle support—sometimes alongside your neurologist’s medical management.
Chiropractic care may not be a cure for migraines, but research shows it can reduce frequency and intensity for many patients. With careful screening, a personalized plan, and measurable goals, we aim to help you take back control of your life.
At BlackSphere Chiropractic we can help you get your life back and not be held hostage by migraines.
