Migraine Treatment Options

Migraine headaches are a painful and debilitating condition. These headaches can be chronic and often cause the sufferer to have bouts of nausea and severe pain. There are many treatment options for these headaches and include physical therapy, prescribed medications, chiropractic treatments and acupuncture.

Pain Medications

• Medications are often the first line of treatment when a severe migraine occurs. Many medications can be prescribed that do not have harsh side effects and take care of the pain of the headache without interrupting the person's life. The Mayo Clinic website lists several groups commonly used:

  • NSAIDS
  • Triptans
  • Ergot
  • Anti Nausea Medications
  • Butalbital Combinations

Preventative Medications

• The Mayo Clinic reports that using preventative medications can greatly reduce the number of headaches a person has. These preventatives can also affect the length and severity of migraines. Preventatives fall into the following groups:

  • Beta Blockers
  • Antidepressants
  • Anti Seizure Medications
  • Cyproheptadine--commonly used for children
  • Botox

Physical or Massage Therapy

• From time to time, a physician may order physical therapy for a patient suffering with migraines. This is usually done if the patient reports a tightening of neck or back muscles and has a reduced range of motion in the neck. Physical therapists can treat these stiff muscles with massage and ultrasound treatments, which can help with the pain and reduce migraine attacks. Some people even find that seeing a massage therapist on a regular basis helps to keep these muscles in shape.

Chiropractor Visits

• Visiting a chiropractor is another way to deal with muscles that are tightening and causes headaches. These professionals can physically adjust the spine and neck bones that sometimes become misaligned. Some migraine patients find that this is very useful treatment to help them control the number of outbreaks they may have.

Acupuncture Therapy

• Acupuncture is another type of alternative treatment that has become popular with treating migraine headaches. This treatment is done by inserting tiny needles into defined "pressure points" on the skin. The Mayo Clinic reports that clinical trials are showing acupuncture as being a great way to control migraine pain.

Treatment Variances

• Each of these treatments can be very useful to treat and prevent migraines. However, each person is different and certain treatments may not be helpful. Working with your physician to find the right combination of treatments is important.