Migraine Headaches

 

Migraine Headaches: Understanding the Cause & Finding Relief Through Neurosomatic Therapy

Migraines are more than just bad headaches—they’re a complex neurological condition that can be incredibly disruptive to daily life. For some, migraines strike only occasionally. But for millions, they’re a chronic issue that interferes with work, relationships, and quality of life.

According to the Migraine Research Foundation, over 10% of the U.S. population suffers from migraines, and 12 million people experience attacks nearly every day. While medications are commonly used for treatment, Neurosomatic Therapy (NST) has shown remarkable success in identifying and addressing the root causes of migraine—often with better long-term results.

What Is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological syndrome—a collection of symptoms with a shared origin. These symptoms can include:

  • Visual disturbances or auras

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Dizziness and lightheadedness

  • Extreme sensitivity to sound, light, touch, or smell

  • Tingling or numbness in the face or extremities

  • Throbbing or pulsing head pain, usually on one side

During a migraine attack, pain can become so intense that the only relief is found in complete stillness, in a dark and quiet environment.

What Causes Migraines?

There are many theories about the causes of migraines. Some focus on blood vessel constriction and dilation, others on chemical imbalances or irritation of nerves like the trigeminal nerve. Common triggers include:

  • Stress or emotional overload

  • Hormonal changes (especially in women)

  • Lack of food or sleep

  • Bright lights or loud environments

  • Weather changes or barometric pressure shifts

  • Specific foods or medications

  • Physical overexertion

However, one often-overlooked factor? Postural distortion.

The C1 & C2 Connection: Why Your Neck May Be the Root of Your Migraines

Our research and clinical experience in Neurosomatic Therapy point to a consistent relationship between postural distortion—particularly in the upper cervical spine—and migraine pain.

The C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae are unlike any other in the spine. Their unique shape and mobility allow for a wide range of motion—but also make them highly susceptible to misalignment.

When these vertebrae are rotated or sheared out of place:

  • Vertebral veins and arteries can become compressed, restricting blood flow out of the brain and increasing intracranial pressure.

  • The brainstem and cranial nerves, including the trigeminal nerve, can be compressed, triggering or intensifying migraine symptoms.

  • Misalignment may also trigger muscle spasms and trigger point referrals, which can mimic or worsen migraine pain.

These distortions can result in headaches that are frequently mistaken for traditional migraines—when in fact, they’re stemming from structural imbalances in the neck.

Clinical Studies & Findings

In collaboration with Henry Ford Hospital, a study comparing St. John Method Neuromuscular Therapy (the precursor to NST) with Swedish massage found that NST significantly reduced migraine frequency, duration, and intensity.

In fact, the results were often better than those achieved by the leading pharmaceutical migraine medications.

Neurosomatic Therapy: A Comprehensive Approach to Migraine Relief

What makes NST unique is its whole-body perspective. While we focus on the neck and head, we also examine the entire postural chain—from the feet to the spine—to uncover and correct the imbalances that may be contributing to your pain.

Our approach includes:

  • Postural analysis to detect asymmetries or imbalances

  • Manual therapy targeting tight, overactive muscles that may compress nerves or blood vessels

  • Correction of spinal alignment—especially of C1 and C2—to restore optimal nerve and vascular function

  • Treatment of muscular trigger points known to refer pain into the head and face

Even the muscles of the hips, thighs, or lower back may play a role—because tension and misalignment in one area often cascade throughout the body.

Real Relief from Migraine Pain

If you’re dealing with chronic migraines and feel like you’ve tried everything—medications, dietary changes, lifestyle shifts—Neurosomatic Therapy may be the missing piece.

By correcting the structural imbalances at the root of your migraines, we help reduce or eliminate the pain, not just manage it.

Call us today to speak with one of our expert therapists and learn how NST can help you find lasting relief from migraine headaches—naturally and effectively.

Back to Treatment