Self Help

Chiropractic manipulation is beneficial for the treatment of headaches that originate in the neck. While little study exists on the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment for migraine in particular, there is a positive, demonstrated association with neck pain.

Many migraine sufferers swear by chiropractic manipulation for the relief of their headaches. Evidence suggests that chiropractic manipulation may be able to stop a migraine but is less likely to act preventively to reduce the frequency and severity of subsequent attacks.

However, the obvious problem with relying on chiropractic treatment for migraine is that it may not be possible to schedule an appointment right when a migraine hits, and it’s better to be seen earlier rather than later during the attack.

A reputable chiropractor will perform a thorough examination and take X rays of the neck before doing a manipulation. Cases of stroke (though very rare) have been reported after neck manipulation, whether performed by a chiropractor, physical therapist, or some other practitioner. These have most often occurred when the head was hyperextended, or tipped very far back.