Cerebellum Pain

The cerebellum is the second-largest area of the human brain and is responsible for speech and coordination. The cerebellum's role in pain is not specifically identified, but there is a link between migraine headaches and this part of the brain.

Identification

• According to Edgar Romero, DC, DACNB, the cerebellum contains neuronal cells such as granular and molecular cells. A network of nerve centers inside the cerebellum is responsible for functions such as balance and speech.

Cerebellum and Migraines

• According to Medscape.com, a link exists between migraine headaches and the cerebellum, although documentation on this is not widely available. Types of migraines associated with cerebellum involvement include the widespread migraine, with or without the aura phenomenon -- the halo of light seen by some individuals at the headache's onset. In addition, cerebellar action may be seen in specific subtypes of such headaches. These are basilar, and FHM -- hereditary autosomal dominant familial hemiplegic. Cerebellar abnormalities in migraine sufferers vary from person to person.

Considerations

• Pub Med, a service of the National Institutes of Health, states that research suggests the cerebellum may react to harmful stimuli, but its exact function in the role of pain is unknown. Medication is available for migraine pain and anyone experiencing this or other head pain should seek the advice of a health care practitioner.