Craniosacral Therapy is helpful in the prevention and treatment of migraines.
This gentle, hands on technique, restores the natural movement of the fluids and membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. When the system is in balance, the fluids pulse gently throughout the central nervous system, supporting health.
The practitioner uses light pressure through their hands to assess and unwind tensions and restore the body’s natural physiological function. The Craniosacral system is part of a continuum and works in concert with the endocrine, circulatory, respiratory and autonomic nervous systems. The effects of CST can be far reaching.
Patients often report a deep sense of relaxation that allows the body to reset. Craniosacral Therapy has been shown to be helpful in managing migraines. In a study published by The Journal Of Clinical Medicine, Craniosacral Therapy reduced the intensity and frequency of migraines while reducing the need for medication and reducing disability.
Managing migraines with the SEEDS method
According to the Mayo Clinic, the SEEDS method is an effective tool for preventing and managing migraines.
S is for Sleep. Stick to a specific schedule and minimize the use of electronic media and distractions at night.
E is for Exercise. You can begin with even a small amount of exercise and gradually increase the duration and frequency of exercise that you do. A key here is to pick activities that you enjoy. Over time, you can make exercise a habit.
E is for Eating. Make sure that you eat three balanced meals each day and stay well hydrated.
D is for Diary. Maintain a record of your symptoms and possible triggers, that you can share with health professionals.
S is for Stress Management – Consider Psychotherapy, Tai Chi, Yoga or Meditation to help you manage stress.
What Are Migraines?
It’s a mistake to think that people who suffer with migraines should simply “tough it out.” These headaches can be recurrent, moderate to severe and debilitating. Migraines affect an estimated 10% of the population worldwide. Women are three times more likely to have migraines than men. If you have migraines, it’s not uncommon for one or more of your family members to suffer from them as well.
There are four possible stages of a migraine:
1. The prodrome phase is an early warning that a migraine is coming on. This can include irritability and feeling out of sorts.
2. One in four people experience a migraine aura. Tingling, flickering of lights, or an optical illusion are common symptoms of an aura.
3. Migraines are typically a one-sided, throbbing pain that is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. There can be stabbing pain behind the eye, vertigo, peculiar smells, exhaustion, upset stomach, and body aches. For many, there is an increased sensitivity to noise and light.
4. The Postdrome phase occurs after the migraine pain has subsided. It may last one or two days, including fatigue and generalized bodily discomfort.
Are migraines serious?
Yes, while migraines vary greatly from person to person, migraines are a hereditary neurological disease. During a migraine, there are temporary changes to your neurovascular system, brain wave activity, and neurochemistry.
What Triggers Migraines?
It is not fully understood what causes migraines. Stress, alcohol, caffeine, changes in weather, and hormonal imbalances are believed to contribute to migraines. There are also links between allergies, environmental illness the immune system, and migraines.
You can book an appointment for a Craniosacral session on our online appointment system or by calling (973) 509-8464.