Hydrotherapy Hack for Migraines

Let's talk about migraines...

Many of my clients suffer from migraines. After one of them recently told me she uses a heating pad on the back of her neck when she gets one, I decided to explain why heat on the neck isn't the answer and what to do instead.

How do migraines begin? They actually begin with a constriction of blood flow to the brain. This phase usually lasts 2-4 hours and is when you may experience that notorious migraine "aura". That is followed by extreme dilation of blood vessels to the brain. So in essence, it's an excess of circulation, not lack of.

Blood flow is increased by heat. So if you're adding heat to already dilated blood vessels, you're actually making it more pronounced. The goal is to reduce the circulation to the head, not increase it. A good way to do that is by using a cold pack on the back of your neck or forehead. You simultaneously want to help redirect that excess of circulation by drawing it away from your head using heat on the lower body. You can do that by putting your feet in a hot water foot bath or take a hot water half bath (with just your lower body submerged) while keeping the cold pack on your neck or forehead.

I've decided to put together an informational packet on migraines and alternative methods that can help. You can request this packet at the studio when you come in if it's something you're interested in having.

This information is meant for educational purposes only. Migraines can be very debilitating so it's important to rule out any underlying pathologies with your doctor if it's something you struggle with.