Many patients with migraine headaches seek out alternative therapies for their condition if daily medications do not seem to help. Some choose to look East and may consider acupuncture for their care. But what is the evidence for this treatment? Does it work?
Two studies in recent years (Alecrim-Andrade J, et. al. Acupuncture in migraine prophylaxis: a randomized sham-controlled trial. Cephalgia 2006;26:520 and Linde K, et. al. Acupuncture for patients with migraine: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2005;293:2118.) compared the results from a sham acupuncture procedure to the real deal. Unfortunately, the sham procedure had the same results as the bonafide treatment, meaning the acupuncture treatment was ineffective for persons with migraine headache.
In contrast, there are several studies (Tuchin PJ. A twelve month clinical trial of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for migraine. Australas Chiropr Osteopathy 1999;8:61 and Tuchin PJ, et. al. A randomized controlled trial of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for migraine. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000;23:91 and Nelson CF, et. al. The efficacy of spinal manipulation, amitriptyline and the combination of both therapies for the prophylaxis of migraine headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1998;21:511.) that suggest chiropractic care may be an effective treatment for patients with this severe problem.
Although it may seem difficult to understand just how a spinal adjustment might help a patient with migraine, it is what the research does, in fact, show. It is something that doctors of chiropractic and their patients have known anecdotally for decades. Having scientific proof for something can provide to you added confidence in your health care choices.
It could be that sprains of the delicate joints of the neck region interfere with the neural connection to the blood supply of the brain. Or perhaps it is imbalanced neuromuscular reflexes that are the culprit. Ultimately, how something works is less important to a patient than IF something works.
Another factor to consider in a health care decision is the safety profile of chiropractic vs. long-term medication use, as well as potential side effects. The safety of chiropractic care is well proven, with few people experiencing untoward side effects or severe complications.
Chiropractic is a natural, non-drug, and proven alternative and efficacious treatment for migraine.
If you would like to discuss how chiropractic care may be able to help your migraine pain, we are always available for complimentary consultations. Just call 203-922-9277 to schedule an appointment.
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