Osteopathy: A Natural Approach To Migraine Treatment And Management

Dr Jarryd Crisp-OSTEOPATH | SENIOR OSTEOPATH-Double Bachelor of Health Science/Applied Science (Osteopathy), Bachelor of Health Sciences

Migraines are a debilitating neurological disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. Characterized by intense, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances, migraines can significantly impact one’s quality of life. While pharmaceutical medications have long been the primary treatment option, an increasing number of individuals are turning to osteopathy as a natural and holistic approach to alleviate migraines. Osteopathy, a complementary therapy that focuses on musculoskeletal health, offers potential benefits for migraine sufferers by addressing underlying issues that may contribute to their condition. In this blog, we will explore how osteopathy can help with the treatment and management of migraines.

Addressing Musculoskeletal Imbalances

Osteopathy revolves around the belief that the body’s structure and function are interconnected. By examining and treating musculoskeletal imbalances, osteopaths aim to restore harmony and reduce stress on the body, potentially alleviating migraine triggers. Studies have shown that osteopathic manipulative techniques can help reduce headache intensity and frequency in migraine sufferers. By addressing tension and misalignments in the neck, shoulders, and spine, osteopathy may help reduce headache triggers and improve overall pain management.

Enhancing Blood Flow and Circulation

Another potential way osteopathy can aid migraine sufferers is by improving blood flow and circulation. Osteopathic manipulative techniques, such as myofascial release and craniosacral therapy, are thought to enhance blood flow to the brain and reduce vascular disturbances that might contribute to migraines. Improved circulation can also aid in the removal of waste products and toxins from the body, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

Stress Reduction

Stress is a well-known trigger for migraines, and osteopathy can play a significant role in stress reduction. Osteopaths often incorporate relaxation techniques and gentle manipulations to promote a sense of calm and reduce the physical and emotional stress that may contribute to migraines. By addressing tension in the muscles and promoting relaxation, osteopathy can help migraine sufferers manage stress more effectively, potentially leading to a reduction in migraine occurrence.

Identifying and Managing Trigger Points

Osteopaths are trained to identify trigger points in the body that may contribute to migraine onset. These trigger points, often found in the neck, shoulders, and head, can radiate pain and exacerbate migraine symptoms. Through targeted manipulations and soft tissue techniques, osteopaths can alleviate these trigger points, providing relief and preventing future migraines.

Holistic Approach to Treatment

One of the most significant advantages of osteopathy for migraine treatment is its holistic approach. Osteopaths consider the entire body and its interconnected systems, taking into account lifestyle factors, diet, and emotional well-being. This comprehensive approach allows for a personalized treatment plan tailored to each individual’s unique needs, potentially yielding more effective and sustainable results.

Osteopathy offers a promising avenue for the treatment and management of migraines. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, enhancing blood flow, reducing stress, and identifying trigger points, osteopathy takes a holistic approach to tackle migraines at their root. Although further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind osteopathy’s effectiveness for migraines, existing evidence and anecdotal reports suggest that this natural therapy can be a valuable addition to the migraine treatment toolkit.

References

1. Chaibi A, Tuchin PJ, Russell MB. Manual therapies for migraine: a systematic review. The Journal of Headache and Pain. 2011;12(2):127-133. doi:10.1007/s10194-011-0296-6
2. Dettmann-Ahrens U, von Rheinbaben H, Reiber H, Scholz M, Schmidt K-L. Manual Medicine and Migraine Therapy. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2008;12(3):225-230. doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2007.11.001
3. Franke H, Franke J-D, Fryer G. Osteopathic manipulative treatment for chronic nonspecific neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. European Journal of Pain. 2019;23(2):234-246. doi:10.1002/ejp.1290
4. Ferragut-Garcías A, Plaza-Manzano G, Rodríguez-Blanco C, Velasco-Roldán O, Pecos-Martín D, Oliva-Pascual-Vaca Á. Effectiveness of Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy for Managing Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2020;9(2):562. doi:10.3390/jcm9020562