Migraine Causes, symptoms and CST a non pharmacological Treatment- Migraine is a neurogenic disorder that causes frequently a one-sided throbbing or pounding headache with or without aura. It can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While medication can provide relief, it’s not always effective and can have unwanted side effects. Craniosacral therapy( CST) is an alternative treatment that can help with migraines without the use of any medicine.
What is Craniosacral Therapy( CST)?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that works to improve the function of the central nervous system. The therapist uses light touch to feel for any restrictions in the craniosacral system, including the bones, tissues, and fluids surrounding and protecting the brain and spinal cord. By using gentle manipulations, the therapist can release any restrictions and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, & improve the function of the CNS.
Most common causes of Migraine
Migraines are a complex and multi-factorial condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of migraines:
- Extensive Screen Time: Computer and smartphone use may trigger or worsen the headache because of bright light & posture.
- Hormonal Changes: That occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause, and can trigger migraines.
- Environmental Triggers: such as Certain foods such as cheese, pepperoni, salami, etc., Smells, or changes in weather or altitude, can trigger migraines in some people.
- Stress and Anxiety: can cause tension in the body, which can lead to migraines in some people.
- Sleep Disturbances: such as insomnia or sleep apnea, can trigger migraines in some people.
- Medications: such as oral contraceptives or blood pressure medications, can trigger migraines in some people.
- Dehydration: Dehydration can cause migraines in some people, as it can lead to imbalance of electrolytes in the body.
- Genetics: Genetics may play a role in the development of migraines.
It’s important to note that not all migraines have a specific cause, and some people may experience migraines for no apparent reason. If you are experiencing migraines, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How Does Craniosacral Therapy (CST) help with Migraines?
By releasing any restrictions in the craniosacral system, the therapist can reduce tension in the muscles and tissues around the head and neck, which can help to alleviate migraines.
The therapist will then use gentle manipulations to release any restrictions and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.
The craniosacral system plays a vital role in the function of the nervous system, which controls all bodily functions. By releasing restrictions in the craniosacral system, CST can help improve the nervous system’s function.
CST can also help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can benefit those who experience migraines triggered by stress. By promoting relaxation, craniosacral therapy can help reduce body tension and alleviate migraines.
One of the unique benefits of CST is that it is a non-invasive and gentle therapy that does not involve medication use. This makes it a safe and effective treatment option for those who cannot take medication or prefer a non-pharmacological approach to treatment.
What to Expect During a Craniosacral Therapy Session?
Knowing what to expect during a session is important if you want to try craniosacral therapy as a potential relief for migraines.
Your therapist will begin the session by discussing your medical history and any current health concerns you have. This is important for the therapist to understand your overall health and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The therapist will then gently examine your craniosacral system, using light touch to feel for any restrictions or areas of tension. The therapist may use their hands to feel the rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid, which can help to identify any areas of restriction.
Based on the examination results, the therapist will then use gentle manipulations to release any restrictions and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. These manipulations may involve gentle pressure on the bones or tissues of the craniosacral system or gentle stretches to release tension.
A craniosacral therapy session can vary but typically lasts around 60 minutes. Depending on the severity of their migraines, some people may need multiple sessions to see significant results.
It is important to note that craniosacral therapy is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that should not be painful. You may feel some sensations during the session, such as warmth or tingling, but these sensations should be mild and comfortable.
Craniosacral therapy can be an effective and safe treatment option for migraines. If you are interested in trying craniosacral therapy, it is important to consult with a qualified Manual Osteopathic Therapist to determine if the therapy is appropriate for your individual needs.
Resources:
- The Journal of Osteopathic Medicine – Manual Craniosacral Therapy May Reduce Symptoms of Migraine Headache
- Craniosacral therapy for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
- Craniosacral Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Its History, Efficacy, and Biomedical Mechanisms.