Chiropractic Insights for Handling Migraine Auras

Migraine auras, the unsettling neurological symptoms that can precede or accompany migraines, can be both disruptive and alarming. With their broad array of manifestations—from visual disturbances to tingling sensations—auras add another layer of complexity to migraine management. Many migraine sufferers are turning to chiropractic care as a holistic approach to mitigate and manage these symptoms. Here, we dive deep into the relationship between migraines, auras, and the role of chiropractic interventions.

Understanding Migraine Auras

A migraine aura typically occurs before the onset of the migraine headache itself, though it can sometimes coincide with or even follow the headache phase. Auras manifest in various ways, including:

• Visual disturbances: Such as zigzag patterns, blind spots, or shimmering lights.

• Sensory symptoms: Including tingling or numbness that travels up one arm or on one side of the face.

• Speech disturbances: Difficulty speaking or comprehending language.

• Motor issues: Weakness or even paralysis, though rare.

It's essential to recognize that not everyone with migraines will experience auras. However, for those who do, they can last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.

The Chiropractic Perspective on Migraines and Auras

Chiropractors believe that many migraines stem from spinal misalignments, particularly in the cervical region, which can lead to nerve irritation and muscle tension. This can cause or exacerbate neurological symptoms associated with migraines, including auras.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

• Spinal Adjustments: By realigning the spine, especially the cervical vertebrae, chiropractors aim to reduce nerve irritations that might contribute to migraines and auras.

• Soft Tissue Therapy: This therapy focuses on relieving tension in the muscles and tissues surrounding the cervical region, which can often be a contributing factor to migraines.

• Nutritional Counseling: Dietary triggers are common in migraine sufferers. A chiropractor might provide guidance on nutritional changes or supplements that can help reduce the frequency or severity of migraines and associated auras.

• Lifestyle Recommendations: Factors such as posture, especially during work or using digital devices, can contribute to migraines. Chiropractors often provide advice on ergonomic changes and exercises to strengthen supporting muscles.

Studies Supporting Chiropractic Care for Migraines

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of chiropractic treatments for migraine management. A notable randomized controlled trial found that individuals receiving chiropractic adjustments experienced significant reductions in migraine frequency, duration, and disability compared to those who didn't receive chiropractic care.

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

If you're experiencing regular migraines with or without auras and traditional treatments aren't providing the relief you seek, it might be time to consult a chiropractor. A comprehensive assessment can help determine if spinal misalignments or muscle tensions are contributing to your symptoms.

Chiropractic care offers a holistic, non-invasive approach to migraine management. By addressing potential spinal and muscular contributors, many individuals find relief from both migraines and their associated auras. As with all health decisions, it's essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

How Dr. Gordon Elder Treats Migraine Auras

Dr. Gordon Elder is adept in practicing the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique—a specialized approach targeting the health and alignment of the upper cervical spine. This technique focuses on identifying and rectifying misalignments, promoting both spinal and neural vitality.

For those grappling with migraine auras, Dr. Elder employs a thorough treatment regimen. The journey begins with a detailed 25–30-minute evaluation to ascertain if vertebral misalignments are causing nerve strain. After this diagnostic phase, Dr. Elder provides insights, and patients have the opportunity to address any concerns about their spinal health.

Using advanced 3-D imaging tools, Dr. Elder then conducts nuanced adjustments, zeroing in on any discrepancies in the upper cervical region. Such targeted measures pave the way for the body's natural recuperative processes by ensuring unhindered nerve activity.

Following the initial adjustment, patients are advised to attend routine follow-up sessions, typically spanning 3-5 months with an average of 10-15 visits. This ensures sustained benefits from the adjustments over several months.

Should migraine auras be hampering your life, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Elder. Blair Chiropractic Clinic, situated in Lubbock, Texas, also welcomes individuals from Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Identifying Major Migraine Triggers and Strategies to Dodge Them

Migraines are intense, throbbing headaches that can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells. These debilitating episodes can last for hours or even days. Identifying and understanding one's triggers is vital for migraine sufferers, as it can help reduce the frequency and severity of these painful episodes. This article sheds light on common migraine triggers and offers strategies, including the use of upper cervical chiropractic, to avoid or mitigate their impact.

Common Migraine Triggers

• Food and Beverages: Items like aged cheeses, processed foods, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine, aspartame, and MSG can trigger migraines in some individuals.

• Stress: Emotional or physical stress can be a significant trigger. The period of relaxation after intense stress, often termed "weekend migraines," can also provoke an attack.

• Hormonal Changes: Many women experience migraines related to their menstrual cycle, possibly due to fluctuations in estrogen.

• Sleep Disturbances: Both lack of sleep and oversleeping can lead to migraines.

• Environmental Factors: Bright lights, loud noises, strong odors, and abrupt changes in weather or barometric pressure can all act as triggers.

• Medications: Some medicines, like birth control pills and vasodilators, can induce migraines.

Strategies to Dodge Migraine Triggers

• Maintain a Diary: Keeping track of when migraines occur, what you ate, how you felt, and any other relevant factors can help pinpoint triggers. Over time, patterns may emerge, providing invaluable insights.

• Establish a Routine: Try to sleep, eat, and exercise at the same time every day. Consistency can reduce the chances of a migraine.

• Manage Stress: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and its associated migraines.

• Dietary Adjustments: If certain foods or beverages emerge as potential triggers from your diary, consider eliminating them for a few weeks and observing any changes.

• Limit Stimuli: If you're sensitive to light or sound, consider wearing sunglasses or noise-canceling headphones during peak sensitivity times.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic: An Effective Migraine Treatment

The upper cervical region of the spine, especially the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae, has a close relationship with the brainstem and the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Misalignments in this area, known as subluxations, can potentially influence the function of the nervous system and exacerbate or contribute to migraines.

Benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic for Migraine Sufferers:

• Improved Nervous System Function: Proper alignment can optimize the nervous system's function, potentially reducing migraine triggers or the severity of attacks.

• Increased Blood Flow: Proper alignment can ensure unimpeded blood flow to the brain, which may help in reducing the frequency or severity of migraines.

• Natural Approach: Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, upper cervical chiropractic is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to potentially managing migraines.

If you're considering upper cervical chiropractic care, it's crucial to find a chiropractor trained in this specific approach. They can provide a detailed assessment and determine if this strategy may be suitable for your individual circumstances.

Migraines can significantly hamper the quality of life. By identifying triggers and implementing strategies like dietary changes, stress management, and upper cervical chiropractic care, sufferers can hope to reduce the impact of these painful episodes on their lives. As always, it's essential to consult with healthcare professionals when deciding on the best strategies for managing migraines.

How We Approach Treatments for Migraines

Dr. Gordon Elder is renowned for his expertise in the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique. This specialized adjustment method emphasizes the well-being of the upper cervical spine, pinpointing and addressing spinal misalignments to rejuvenate the natural alignment and functionality of the spine and its encompassing nerves.

In addressing migraines, Dr. Elder adopts a dual-phase strategy for diagnosis and treatment. The journey starts with a 25–30-minute assessment to ascertain if any vertebral misalignment is exerting pressure on nerves. After this evaluation, patients receive a concise report detailing the findings, offering a chance for a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Elder about spinal health.

Subsequently, Dr. Elder employs nuanced, gentle adjustments with minimal force to guide any mispositioned vertebrae back to their innate alignment. This aids the body's intrinsic healing mechanisms in revitalizing and sustaining correct nerve activity. This procedure predominantly incorporates sophisticated 3-D imaging diagnostics to meticulously identify any misalignments in the upper cervical area.

Post the primary adjustment, patients are advised to attend periodic follow-ups, spaced out gradually, to validate the sustained positioning of the adjustment over a span of 3 months. Typically, within a period of 3-5 months, most patients have around 10 to 15 consultations with Dr. Elder.

If migraines have become a persistent disruption in your daily routine, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Elder and discuss the condition of your upper cervical spine. Located in Lubbock, Texas, Blair Chiropractic Clinic also extends its services to Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, El Paso in Texas, and Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Are Migraines Really Affected By Weather?

If you think of a migraine as a headache, you've probably never had one. Migraines are so much worse than regular headaches. 

Migraine attacks usually last for days, going through several phases. During these phases, you may experience various aches and pains, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, confusion, light sensitivity, or fatigue. Of course, the entire episode reaches a high point (or perhaps more accurately, a low point) with throbbing, relentless pain.

There are many things that may trigger a migraine, depending on the person. Stress, strong odors, alcoholic beverage consumption, hunger, lack of sleep, or eye strain are all potential triggers. There is one thing that can cause a migraine that most people don't realize: the weather.  

How Weather May Trigger a Migraine

You don't notice it, but there is pressure in the atmosphere all around us at all times. Atmospheric air pressure is measured with a barometer. When the barometric pressure drops on the outside,  it can cause an imbalance of pressure in the sinus cavities and/or the inner ear. These pressure changes may trigger a migraine in some people.

A well-known study from Japan showed that when barometric pressure changes, there is an increase in the sale of a popular headache remedy. The observation led scientists to conclude there was a correlation between atmospheric pressure changes and migraines. 

Further studies were done on people with chronic migraines, and scientists found that migraines were more likely to occur when atmospheric pressure changed. On the flip side, when atmospheric pressure was higher, significantly fewer migraines were reported.

How The Weather Report Can Help You Prevent Migraines

If you are not sure what is triggering your migraines, keep a diary recording the barometric pressure on the days you get migraines. If you notice there is a correlation, you may be able to save yourself some big headaches—literally. 

Keep track of the weather forecast. You can't control the weather, but you can control other variables in your life. If you know the conditions will be right for migraines, take some preventative measures. Practice stress reduction techniques, stay well hydrated, and get plenty of sleep, fresh air, and exercise. If your doctor has prescribed any migraine preventative medication, make sure to take it. All of these things can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. 

Seek Chiropractic Care

Upper cervical care is beneficial to many migraine sufferers. When the spine is misaligned it can disrupt the flow of nerve signals in the brain, and this may in part contribute to migraines. Tension and pain caused by misalignments can also increase stress, which contributes to migraine attacks. 

Dr. Gordon Elder can help ensure your spine is properly aligned as part of a holistic treatment for migraines. Chiropractic care offers a safe, drug-free, non-invasive treatment option. 

Dr. Elder works at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas. He is a trained practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This technique incorporates advanced diagnostic tools and specially trained practitioners to help restore the body's naturally aligned state. 

Dr. Elder's plan begins with screening. Using 3D diagnostic imaging tools, he's able to better visualize your unique anatomy and pinpoint problem areas. 

In the second step of Dr. Elder's plan, he's able to use those advanced scans to make adjustments with precision. This allows the doctor to use a lighter touch that is much more comfortable for the patient. 

Finally, Dr. Elder follows up with regular check-ups to ensure the alignment is holding. This allows him to get ahead of any potential problems in the future through preventative care. 

Don't continue to suffer from migraines when there is help available. Call Dr. Elder for an appointment. His areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Women Are More Prone To Migraines Than Men: Here's Why

Why Are Women More Likely to Get Migraines?

Anyone of any age can suffer from migraines, but the condition disproportionately affects women. Of the 37 million reported migraine sufferers in the United States, nearly three-fourths of those patients are women. Women are not only more likely to get migraines, but their episodes are more likely to last longer than migraines do for men. 

What Are Migraines?

A migraine is not just a bad headache; it is an entire episode that includes a severe headache. Many people who suffer from migraines experience them in stages. 

The first stage of a migraine may begin days or hours before the actual headache kicks in. During this phase, you may experience mood swings, food cravings, constipation, frequent urination, or excessive yawning. Many sufferers report they begin getting a stiff neck, or they may have visual disturbances.

The next stage is when a throbbing headache strikes, usually moderate to severe. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, or sound sensitivity. It can last for a few hours to a few days. 

The final stage is when the worst of the headache subsides. The sufferer may feel drained, and confused, or may experience tension headaches. This can last a day or two after the attack. 

Why Migraines Strike Women

Doctors are not entirely sure what causes migraines, but research is pointing to an issue with the nervous system. Nerve signals regulating the endocrine system may be disrupted, causing issues with the production and release of certain hormones that oversee mood, sleep, and the menstrual cycle. 

The Role of the Upper Cervical Spine

The upper cervical spine is the uppermost part of the spine that runs through the neck. When there is a misalignment in this part of the spine, it can cause compression or pinching of the nerves, leading to misfiring nerve signals. 

Chiropractors who are experts in the upper cervical area can make corrections to relieve any swelling or pinching that might interfere with nerve signals. Once the spine's properly aligned state is restored, the body's natural healing processes commence to repair damage and restore health. 

People who get upper cervical care report a reduction in the frequency and severity of migraines. 

How We Treat Migraines

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an upper cervical specialist trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. The Blair technique makes use of advanced diagnostic tools and special low-pressure manipulations to help target the problem and coax the spine back into proper alignment. Once this is done, the body's healing mechanisms are free to restore health. 

Dr. Elder has a three-step treatment process. Step one is consultation, including a 3D diagnostic imaging scan. Step two is healing, as he applies gentle adjustments with precision thanks to superior technology scans. Finally, step three is preventative to keep migraines at bay in the future. 

Migraines are debilitating, and make life both difficult and stressful. Contact Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care can help you. Dr. Elder's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Migraines and Cluster Headaches: What Is The Difference?

If you get intense or severe head pain, it may be more than just an ordinary headache. You may have a neurological disorder such as migraines or cluster headaches. Both of these conditions are extremely painful and can be debilitating.

While migraine attacks and cluster headaches are similar, there are distinct differences. Knowing what you have can help your doctor figure out the best treatment.  

Telling the Difference Between Migraines and Cluster Headaches

Migraines are much more common than cluster headaches. Some 37 million people suffer from migraines, while cluster headaches only affect 200,000 to one million people. Both migraines and cluster headaches cause severe head pain, typically on one side of the head and/or around the forehead. Beyond that, they have some distinctly different symptoms. 

Usually, migraine sufferers will feel an attack coming a day or two in advance. Migraines may make you feel nauseous or cause vomiting or may cause disturbances in your vision.

The pain of a migraine headache is usually pulsing or throbbing and can last for hours to days. During an attack, the sufferer may find relief sitting still in a dark, quiet room.

Cluster headaches are sudden and can strike without warning. Many people describe the pain as being stabbed in the eye with a hot poker. It is an excruciating, stabbing pain that can last from about 15 minutes to three hours. Sufferers may get a runny nose, teary eyes, or swelling around the eyes. 

Because the pain is so intense, cluster headache patients don't usually find relief by sitting quietly—they will become agitated and may move around a lot, pacing or rocking. 

Cluster headaches are not isolated incidents. A patient will get one or more of these headaches each day for weeks or months. Then, the patient will go into remission for a few months, possibly a year. The clusters inevitably return though, and the cycle repeats. 

How We Can Help Patients with Migraines or Cluster Headaches

Both migraines and cluster headaches are neurological conditions, often caused by a disruption of the nerve signals. Vital nerves branch out from the brain stem and wrap around your head. When there is a misalignment of the upper cervical spine—which begins just below the brain stem and runs down the neck—it can cause inflammation and swelling, nerve compression, or pinched nerves. This causes nerve signals to misfire and can cause conditions such as migraines and cluster headaches. 

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas specializes in treating the upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder uses the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a gentle technique that does not involve the abrupt twists and cracks associated with traditional chiropractic care. 

The Blair technique is gentle, allowing doctors to use a light touch thanks to a more precise diagnostic process. Blair practitioners utilize state-of-the-art 3D imaging tools to help assess the health of the spine and calculate misalignments. This allows the doctor to apply low-force pressure in exact areas for a non-invasive, safe, painless correction. 

Dr. Elder's first step is to perform a screening to pinpoint any problems that may be causing nerve compression. The second step involves making corrections, paving the way for the body's natural healing processes to take over. 

As the healing process continues, the nerves begin functioning properly again, bringing relief to many sufferers of migraines and cluster headaches. Many report headache episodes are fewer and farther between, and less severe in general. 

The third and final step is to prevent problems in the future. Dr. Elder recommends regular chiropractic check-ups to ensure that the upper cervical spine remains in a healthy state so that problems are averted. 

Don't let migraines or cluster headaches rob you of your vitality. Contact Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care is right for you. Dr. Elder sees patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

5 Natural and Alternative Tips for Migraine Relief

Migraines are so much more than "just a headache." Anyone who has ever suffered from a migraine can tell you, migraines are extremely intense and can last for days. For someone suffering from chronic migraines, this can be positively debilitating. 

Unfortunately, there is little that doctors can do for migraine sufferers. Usually, all the doctors can offer is some pain medication to help you ride out the attack. For many patients, pain medication barely takes the edge off once an attack is in full force. 

Here are some tips to help you get through that painful episode.

1. Retreat

Migraines can cause sensitivity to light, sound, and, in some cases, scents. Any sensory stimulation can make the pain worse—particularly light, which activates pain-transmitting cells. 

When you feel a migraine setting in, retreat to a dark room—preferably one away from noise or with a good pair of noise-canceling headphones. You may want to keep your room free of perfumes, incense, strong-smelling cleaning products, and any other odors that might aggravate your condition.

2. Try Compresses

Some people who suffer from migraines find relief with warm or cold compresses. For some people, the cold has a numbing effect that distracts from the headache. For others, it is the warmth that is soothing and relaxes the muscles. Try both to see which you prefer. 

Place the compress on your forehead, or the back of your neck. 

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration triggers migraines, so if you suffer from migraine attacks it is a good idea to keep yourself hydrated. This is especially important when you feel an attack coming on. Some research has revealed that drinking a lot of water at the start of a migraine can help shorten the duration. 

Stay away from sugar and caffeinated drinks—these can dehydrate you further. Instead, opt for plain water, water with a splash of citrus juice, or naturally caffeine-free herbal teas are your best option.

4. Massage Yourself—Cautiously!

When you feel a migraine coming on or getting worse, a head massage can help reduce stress and relax the muscles. Try rubbing your temples, forehead, or the back of your neck, but do so gently! Some people during a migraine can become more sensitive to touch. If massage isn't helping, stop immediately. 

5. Try Meditation

Since migraines are largely linked to stress, meditation can be a great practice for sufferers. Meditation reduces stress and tension, which can help stave off migraines.

Meditation is also a great technique that many people with chronic pain use to manage attacks. If you are trying to get through a migraine, try meditating to help detach yourself from the pain and get through it. 

Let Us Help with Your Migraines

Some research shows that upper cervical care can help in preventing migraines or reduce their duration and intensity. Chiropractic care can help alleviate the stress and tension that lead to attacks, and allow the body's systems to function optimally by ensuring the spine is in proper alignment. 

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas uses the Blair Upper Cervical Chiropractic Technique to treat patients with migraines. This technique utilizes modern 3D diagnostic imaging tools to pinpoint problems so that the doctor can apply gentle pressure for more precise corrections. 

Dr. Elder's first step with patients is a thorough health screening and scans with 3D diagnostic tools. Once he can study and calculate your unique anatomy, he can discuss any areas of concern with you and recommend a treatment plan. 

The doctor's second step is to apply low-force pressure to make gentle corrections to the spine. Once properly aligned, the nervous system and blood vessels can flow unimpeded, and the body's natural healing mechanisms kick in. Realigning the spine also takes any strains off the musculoskeletal system that may be contributing to tension and stress. 

As a final step, Dr. Elder recommends patients add chiropractic check-ups to their regular care routine. That way the doctor can prevent future problems. 

If you're suffering from migraines, you're not alone. Dr. Elder wants to help. Call for a consultation to see how upper cervical care can benefit you. Dr. Elder's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.