Two big triggers of migraines are increased humidity and changes in barometric pressure. That’s why this month, when our extremely hot and wet summer starts here in Southwest Florida, we are talking about the weather, and how and why it affects those people who get migraines.
The upper neck bones are unique compared to the rest of the spine. This area doesn’t have discs between the bones, and the joints are very flat. This design allows for greater movement, letting us move our heads in various directions, but it also puts more stress on the ligaments. When whiplash or any neck trauma occurs, the upper neck ligaments are often injured. These ligaments provide stability in the upper cervical area, a role handled by discs and angled joints in the rest of the spine. Once injured, these ligaments never fully recover. Even after healing, they generally regain only 30-40% of their original strength and become much more sensitive to changes in barometric pressure.
One of the leading theories about migraines and bad weather suggests that changes in barometric pressure can disrupt the body’s homeostasis, especially the balance of fluids in the brain. Since the brain is encased in a rigid skull, any shift in atmospheric pressure can lead to changes in intracranial pressure. When barometric pressure drops, as it often does before a storm, it could cause a relative increase in pressure within the skull, potentially triggering migraine pain in those who are susceptible.
For decades, upper cervical misalignments have been linked to headaches. When one of the top two bones in the neck shifts out of its normal position, it can lead to nerve irritation, muscle tightness, and altered blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow. It’s usually a combination of these issues that generates headaches. Cerebrospinal fluid flow, in particular, is affected by changes in barometric pressure.
The health of the upper neck ligaments significantly affects whether these bones stay properly aligned. In my practice over the last decade, I’ve seen chronic migraine sufferers experience great improvement with proper alignment. However, I also notice the need to check them more frequently during storms and periods of high humidity.
If you are someone who commonly suffers from migraines you likely already notice an increase in symptoms when a storm is on the way. If you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines and haven’t had your upper neck evaluated, you could be missing a key component of your treatment plan.
Conclusion:
For those in Fort Myers seeking relief from the challenges of migraine pain, Upper Cervical Health Centers, guided by Dr. Lee Angle, presents a distinct pathway to healing. The positive effects of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treatment extend beyond conventional approaches, addressing the root cause of migraine pain in the upper cervical spine. If you’re embarking on a journey toward lasting relief and holistic well-being, consider exploring the transformative benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treatment with Dr. Lee Angle at Upper Cervical Health Centers. Your quest for aligning wellness and relieving migraine pain begins here.
