Have you ever experienced abruptly seeing flashing lights that can be described as a “disco ball” or a “fire engine?” Or perhaps zig-zags that creep up on the side of your vision a few minutes before the onset of a throbbing headache? Have you ever experienced dizziness, nausea and/or vomiting prior to or followed by a sharp, throbbing or stabbing pain on the side of your head? If you suffer from these symptoms, you may be suffering from a migraine headache. Other symptoms can also include numbness in the one arm, inability to speak, light and/or sound sensitivity followed by moodiness. But before assuming anything, consider going to the ER or getting evaluated and examined to rule out any other serious conditions.

Although there are various forms of migraine headaches, each may have a slightly different presentation. Nevertheless, the headache and its associated symptoms can be excruciating, annoying, and sometimes a frightening experience. They can sneak up on us when least expected, causing an interference with our daily activities. Work and family life is typically affected. They are a health ailment that should not be overlooked. Furthermore, migraine headaches are a horrific malady that affect many people, females more than males. Although hormones, stress, inconsistent sleep patterns, and genetic factors are believed to contribute to the occurrences, other factors include diet, dehydration, consumption of red wine, stress, and other factors including lack of certain vitamins and supplements that can contribute to their triggers. Although medication—both prophylactically as well as during the onset can be administered, there are other natural alternatives that can be incorporated to keep these horrific headaches under control.
Once evaluated and examined, and once the diagnosis of migraine headache is provided by your doctor, it is crucial to find the cause and culprit. Chiropractic manipulation, acupuncture, dietary recommendations and changes, as well as nutritional supplementation are a few recommendations that can be considered in conquering this health ailment.

How does chiropractic assist a person who suffers from migraine headaches?
Chiropractic care can help relieve restrictions, or lack of movement in the cervical spine (or neck area) that otherwise can cause neck tension, muscle spasms, and headaches. By performing an adjustment, Dr. Skokos can help assist these joints more properly so that future migraine headaches do not occur.

How does acupuncture help a person who suffers from migraine headaches?
Acupuncture helps balance certain “meridians” or pathways in the body that have “stagnated qi” or “blocked energy.” By inserting small, fine acupuncture needles to specific points of the body, the energy begins to flow, thus allowing more blood flow and oxygen to the depleted areas. The patient typically feels much calmer and more relaxed as well. Once the body has been balanced via proper blood flow and oxygen to the designated areas, the symptoms of the migraine headache are decreased and many times even controlled or eliminated.