Migraine Relief: How a D.O. Can Help
Migraine headaches can come on at any time, but some people suffer with them more often than others. While there are numerous causes of migraines, there’s still much study to be done concerning these types of headaches. Migraine headaches are often severe, making it almost impossible to continue with everyday activities.
Common symptoms of migraine headaches include:
- Pulsating pain
- Throbbing sensation in the head
- Headache that worsens with activity
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Sensitivity to noise, light or certain scents.
- Some migraine sufferers see spots, flashing lights or wavy lines called “aura.”
- Some might have numbness in the face, hands and arms
Stress or a lack of sleep can sometimes bring on a migraine headache. Some sufferers get a migraine headache when a certain type of food is consumed, such as chocolate or caffeine. Migraines may also occur due to neck, shoulder or back problem.
If you suffer with migraines and have not been able to find relief then it’s time to visit a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). A D.O. will examine you with a holistic approach to determine the possible cause of your migraine headaches. Sometimes treatment can be as simple as having a few sessions of osteopathic manipulation (OMT) to correct musculoskeletal problems. You might need physical therapy if your migraines are related to back, neck or shoulder problems.
When you visit a D.O. for migraines you will be heard, an appropriate physical exam and workup will be completed. Your Osteopathic Physician will work with you in developing a treatment plan and follow up visit. Our goal is to improve your quality of life.
More Benefits
One advantage of visiting a D.O. instead of an M.D. is that a D.O. has the same credentials and training as an M.D., but had extra classes in learning about the musculoskeletal system. D.O.’s are trained to examine the whole body so even if your migraines are occurring due to other underlying health problems, a D.O. can assess this for you and treat you for the underlying illness or injury as well.
Our clinic has the ability to treat migraines in house thus avoiding a costly trip to the emergency room.