Understanding Migraine Headaches: Causes, Triggers, and Effective Treatment Options

Characterized by severe, throbbing pain, migraines frequently involve one side of the head but can vary in intensity and location. For many sufferers, the impact of migraines goes beyond physical pain, disrupting work, family life, and overall well-being. This blog explores what migraines are, how specific postures and activities might worsen them, and the treatment options available to alleviate pain, including Active Release Techniques, dry needling, cupping, Graston Technique, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy.

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What Are Migraines?

Migraines are a type of primary headache, which means they aren’t caused by other underlying health issues. Migraines differ from standard headaches in both severity and duration, often presenting with additional symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and visual disturbances like flashing lights or blind spots.

Migraines usually fall into two main categories:

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• Migraine with Aura: This type includes warning signs, called auras, which may involve visual disturbances, tingling sensations, or difficulty speaking, typically occurring before the headache phase.
• Migraine without Aura: The more common type, this presents as a headache without any preceding aura.

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Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Some people experience them rarely, while others may have chronic migraines, which can occur 15 or more days each month. The exact cause of migraines isn’t fully understood, but factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and chemical changes in the brain are believed to play a role.

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Postures and Activities That Can Trigger or Exacerbate Migraines

Certain postures and repetitive activities are known to increase muscle tension in areas such as the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can, in turn, contribute to migraine development. Here are some of the main postures and activities that can influence migraine severity:

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1. Poor Posture

Sitting or standing with poor posture, particularly during long hours at a desk, can place strain on the neck and upper back muscles. This tension often affects the trapezius and levator scapulae muscles, which are closely linked to the nerves and blood flow in the head and neck, and can lead to or worsen migraine symptoms.

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2. Repetitive Motions

Using a computer, typing, texting, or even driving for extended periods can put a strain on the upper body, leading to muscle tightness and fatigue. Over time, these repetitive motions can contribute to muscle imbalances, which may trigger migraines.

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3. Sleep Position

Improper sleep positions, particularly those without adequate neck and head support, can create stiffness and tension. This is especially true for those who sleep on their stomachs or who don’t use the right pillow. Teeth grinding or jaw clenching at night can also contribute to migraines by increasing tension around the head and neck.

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4. Strenuous Physical Activity

While exercise generally benefits health, overexertion and activities that strain the neck, such as heavy lifting, can trigger migraines. This is often due to increased muscle tension and poor form, which can place stress on the upper back and neck.

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Treatment Options for Migraine Relief

For individuals who suffer from migraines in Boulder, CO and surrounding areas, there are several treatment options beyond medication that can provide effective relief. These therapies can address the root causes of tension and muscle strain that may trigger migraines. Below, we explore some of the most effective non-invasive treatments available.

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1. Active Release Techniques (ART)

Active Release Techniques is a form of soft tissue therapy that focuses on relieving tight muscles, particularly those in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. This can help to reduce muscle tension, which can alleviate pressure on nerves and blood vessels linked to migraine pain. Regular muscle work can also help improve posture and flexibility, reducing the risk of future migraines.

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2. Dry Needling

Dry needling is a technique that uses thin needles to target trigger points—knots in the muscle that can cause pain. When the needle is inserted, it can help to release tension in the muscle, improving blood flow and decreasing pain. For migraine sufferers, dry needling in the neck and upper back muscles may relieve the tension that contributes to migraine onset.

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3. Cupping

Cupping therapy involves placing suction cups on the skin to promote blood flow and relieve muscle tension. Cupping is particularly effective for reducing stiffness and increasing circulation in the upper back and neck. By releasing tension in these areas, cupping can help alleviate some of the muscle-related triggers for migraines.

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4. Graston Technique

The Graston Technique is a form of manual therapy that uses specialized tools to break down scar tissue and improve mobility in soft tissues. For migraine patients, applying the Graston Technique to areas of muscle tightness and restriction can help reduce strain on the neck and upper back. This technique can be particularly helpful for those who experience migraines due to poor posture or repetitive strain.

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5. Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic care at Boulder Sports Clinic focuses on the alignment of the spine and neck, which can play a significant role in migraine relief. Misalignment, particularly in the cervical spine, can place strain on muscles and nerves associated with headaches. Chiropractic adjustments work to improve alignment and restore proper movement patterns, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

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6. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy at Boulder Sports Clinic focuses on restoring muscle balance, improving posture, and increasing overall strength and flexibility. Our physical therapist can guide you through exercises that target weak or overactive muscles that might be contributing to migraines. They can also address postural issues by recommending ergonomic changes and stretches to reduce strain on the neck and upper body.

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Building a Treatment Plan to Reduce Migraines

Migraines are complex, and what works for one person may not work for another. A comprehensive treatment plan that combines several of these approaches often yields the best results. For instance, a patient who experiences migraines due to poor posture might benefit from chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, and physical therapy exercises to strengthen and improve posture. Someone with muscle tension in the upper back and neck might find relief with a combination of muscle work, Graston Technique, and cupping to release tightness and improve blood flow.

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When to Seek Help

If migraines are impacting your daily life, and you’ve tried medication with limited success, consider a consultation with a healthcare provider who specializes in non-invasive treatments like those offered at Boulder Sports Chiropractic Clinic. By addressing the musculoskeletal factors that contribute to migraine onset, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines without relying solely on medications.

Our experienced team can work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, focusing on your specific triggers and needs. We’ll assess your posture, muscle health, and lifestyle factors to build a plan that includes targeted therapies such as dry needling, cupping, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy to keep migraines at bay.

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Find Migraine Relief

At Boulder Sports Chiropractic, we understand how disruptive migraines can be. Our holistic approach is designed to address the root causes of your pain, not just mask the symptoms. If you’re ready to explore non-invasive, effective treatments for migraine relief, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Together, we’ll work to alleviate your pain, improve your quality of life, and help you regain control over your daily activities—migraine-free.