Drugs
Exercise therapy depends on the cause of the migraine disorder. If there is a strong tension in the shoulder – neck area, all exercises can be used to relax the muscles. Shoulder circles, massage therapy, heat therapy, stretching of the musculature and a strengthening of the too weak musculature are particularly important.
More information about these and other exercises can be found in the articles Exercises Cervical Spine Syndrome and Physiotherapy for Whiplash Trauma. If the patient suffers from enormous stress, this should be reduced by a change in the rhythm of life or at work. It is also important to deal with the stress, which can be managed through relaxation techniques.
Progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training, yoga, Pilates can be done under supervision. Half an hour a day to take time and do breathing exercises, listening to relaxation music or an audio book can be done alone at home at any time and reduce stress. Especially the breathing exercises have a relaxing effect on the whole body.
Migraine patients are also advised to do endurance sports. Jogging, walking, swimming, cycling or other endurance sports can be used. Sports in the fresh air are particularly effective.
In physiotherapy, manual therapy is a good treatment method to relieve tension from the head by treating the cervical spine and relieving traction. In addition, lymphatic drainage of the head is often performed, which often has a positive effect on the course of migraine.
- Especially weak neck muscles can be trained by tensing the rotation with the hand on the cheek.
- The upper back muscles are also important; these can be trained by contracting the shoulder blades with the help of the arms.
Summary
A migraine is a sudden extreme headache attack, which is usually felt unilaterally. In addition to the unbearable headaches, it can also lead to sensitivity to light, noise, nausea to vomiting, loss of appetite and total exhaustion. Some patients have an aura in connection with migraine, i.e. the phase before the actual headache.
The symptoms include perception disorders, visual disturbances, balance disorders, neurological deficits and speech disorders. A migraine attack can last up to 3 days and the patient usually withdraws to a quiet, dark room from the onset of the first symptoms. The causes are still not fully understood.
In addition to familial stress, a disturbance of the serotinin balance, trigger factors or hormone changes are discussed. Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen are recommended for mild pain and preparations containing triptans should be taken for severe pain. Children can also suffer from migraine attacks.
However, these attacks are not as long as in adults and the accompanying symptoms are not as severe. Besides strengthening and mobilization exercises for the neck area, endurance sports and relaxation techniques are particularly recommended. A holistic change in lifestyle is also advisable. Attention should be paid to regular sleep, a balanced regular diet, plenty of drinking and stress reduction.
