Alternative Migraine Therapy

Alternative non-drug therapy is another way to combat those pesky migraines. It works best when it is integrated into your overall care of managing your migraines. It's role is to offer additional relief and not to substitute your approved medical care. So do use it in conjunction with other therapies, medication and changes in lifestyle. Look at it as part of your weaponry instead of the weapon itself. Although considered as a natural remedy, it is still important to discuss with your physician before engaging in any alternative migraine therapy.

Massage Therapy

Migraine sufferers generally suffer from stiff, tender muscles in the back of the head, neck and shoulders. Massaging trigger points can effectively reduce pain and muscle tightness, thereby relieving migraineurs of their discomfort. Several studies have determined that massage therapy at the very least helps migraineurs sleep better and at best actually does manage to lessen headache pain. Here are some methods of massage therapy for you to try.

• Reflexology

• Craniosacral therapy

• Deep-tissue massage therapy

• Acupressure

Herbs

Although herbs are considered non-drugs, it is still important to consult with your doctor before taking any. This is because they can interact with drugs or be inappropriate for certain physical conditions. The following are some herbs that are gaining in popularity among migraineurs:

• Feverfew

• Ginger

• Butterbur

Supplements

As a preventive method, some turn to taking supplements. Here are some for your consideration:

• Magnesium

• 5-HTP

• Riboflavin

• Alpha Linolenic Acid

• Coenzyme Q10

Biofeedback

In a biofeedback session, your heart rate, brain waves, pulse, muscle activities, perspiration and skin temperature will be monitored through a computer. All these information about your involuntary body functions are supplied to you the entire time you are hooked up. The goal is for you to learn deep relaxation, self suggestions and other strategies to voluntarily moderate those involuntary body functions. You will become more attuned with how you feel when your body is undergoing a variety of physical changes. You are taught how to adjust your physical responses to effectively avoid problems associated with them, such as migraines.

Below is a variety of biofeedback methods.

• Electromyogram (EMG)

• Temperature biofeedback

• Galvanic skin response training

• Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Dietary Modification

There are certain foods, drinks, nutritional supplements, or food additives that can trigger migraines. The most common foods identified as migraine triggers include

• chocolate

• monosodium glutamate (MSG), a seasoning commonly found in Chinese food.

• artificial sweeteners (Aspartame), can be found in diet sodas and sugar-free foods.

• Nitrates, found in cured meats such as bacon, salami, sausage and hot dogs

• caffeine in coffee, tea and colas

• alcohol such as red wine, beer, champagne.

• Amines, present in peanuts, peas, soy, cheese, citrus fruits, salmon and tuna, pickled meat.

Even vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and hypoglycemia can be a trigger. Best thing to do is to have a well balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Cut down on the non-processed foods. You may want to consider certain foods that may help prevent migraines such as ginger, foods rich in calcium and magnesium such as spinach.