Migraine aura is a neurological phenomenon that affects approximately one-third of individuals who experience migraines. Aura refers to a set of symptoms that can occur before or during a migraine headache. These symptoms are usually visual but can also affect other senses such as touch, hearing, and smell.

Migraine aura typically occurs within an hour before the onset of a migraine headache and can last for up to an hour. The symptoms of aura can be alarming and may include visual disturbances such as seeing flashing lights, blind spots, or zigzag lines. Other sensory symptoms may include numbness or tingling in the face or limbs, difficulty speaking, or a sense of confusion.

Migraine aura is believed to be caused by changes in the brain that occur during a migraine. These changes can affect the way that nerve cells in the brain communicate, leading to the sensory symptoms associated with aura.

FAQs About Migraine Aura:

Q: Are there any treatments for migraine aura?

A: While there is no cure for migraine aura, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These may include medications such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and migraine-specific medications. Physical therapy can also be an effective way to manage migraine aura symptoms, which we will explore further below.n

Q: Can migraine aura occur without a headache?

A: Yes, it is possible to experience migraine aura without a headache. This is known as a “silent migraine” or “acephalgic migraine.” In these cases, individuals may experience the symptoms of aura without the headache pain.

Q: Are there any triggers that can cause migraine aura?

A: Some of the common triggers for migraines, such as stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, and certain foods, can also trigger migraine aura. Other triggers may include environmental factors such as bright lights, loud noises, or changes in altitude.

Q: How Physical Therapy Can Help with Migraine Aura?

A: Physical therapy can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of migraine aura. A physical therapist can work with individuals to identify trigger factors and develop strategies to manage them. In addition, physical therapy can provide exercises that can help improve posture and reduce muscle tension, which can help prevent migraine aura symptoms.

Manual therapy techniques such as massage and trigger point release can help to reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow, which can help prevent migraine aura symptoms. Furthermore, physical therapists can provide education on relaxation techniques and breathing exercises to help individuals manage stress, which can also be a trigger factor for migraine aura.

In conclusion, migraine aura can be a challenging and often distressing symptom of migraines. While there is no cure for migraine aura, physical therapy can be an effective way to manage the symptoms and improve overall quality of life. By working with a physical therapist, individuals can learn techniques to manage their migraine aura symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of their migraines.

Nausea is a common symptom of migraines, affecting approximately 80% of individuals who experience migraines. This sensation of queasiness or unease in the stomach can be debilitating, and often exacerbates the pain and discomfort associated with migraines.

The exact cause of nausea in migraines is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to changes in the brain and nervous system that occur during a migraine. These changes can affect the way that the stomach and digestive system function, leading to the sensation of nausea.

Fortunately, there are several ways to manage the symptoms of nausea in migraines. Some medications, such as anti-nausea drugs and migraine-specific medications, can be effective in reducing the severity of nausea. In addition, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding trigger factors, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can help to prevent or reduce the symptoms of nausea.

Physical therapy can also be an effective way to manage the symptoms of nausea in migraines. Techniques such as relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, and manual therapy can help to reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to nausea. Furthermore, physical therapy can help to improve posture and reduce muscle tension, which can also help to prevent or reduce the symptoms of nausea.

In conclusion, nausea is a common and often debilitating symptom of migraines. By working with a healthcare professional and utilizing strategies such as medications, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy, individuals can manage the symptoms of nausea and improve their overall quality of life.

While the exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, there are several factors that can trigger a migraine attack. By identifying these trigger factors, you may be able to reduce the frequency and intensity of your migraines.

Here are some of the most common trigger factors for migraines:

1. Stress: Emotional or physical stress can trigger migraines in some individuals.
2. Sleep disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns, such as getting too much or too little sleep, can trigger migraines.
3. Food and drink: Certain foods and drinks, such as alcohol, caffeine, and processed or aged foods, can trigger migraines in some people.
4. Environmental factors: Bright lights, loud noises, and changes in weather or altitude can trigger migraines in some individuals.
5. Medications: Certain medications, including some types of birth control and blood pressure medications, can trigger migraines in some people.
6. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone level can trigger migraines in some people.

Identifying trigger factors for migraines can be a helpful step in managing the condition. By keeping a migraine diary to track symptoms and possible triggers, you can identify patterns and make lifestyle modifications to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines.

Treatment options such as medications and physical therapy can also be effective in managing the symptoms of migraines. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Migraines are a neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Migraines can cause severe pain, visual disturbances, and other symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. While there are various treatments available, physical therapy is an effective approach that can help individuals manage migraines.

How does Physical Therapy Help?

• Posture Correction: Poor posture can cause tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can trigger migraines. Physical therapy can help individuals improve their posture, which can reduce tension and prevent migraine triggers.n
• Manual Therapy: Physical therapy can involve various manual therapies such as massage and trigger point release that can help relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow, and reduce the frequency of migraines.n
• Exercise: Exercise is an effective way to reduce tension, stress, and anxiety, all of which can trigger migraines. Physical therapy can provide exercise programs that can help individuals to manage their migraines by improving their cardiovascular health and decreasing stress levels.n
• Breathing Techniques: Breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and relaxation techniques, can help reduce stress, which can trigger migraines. Physical therapists can teach individuals techniques that can help manage stress and reduce the frequency of migraines.n
• Education: Physical therapists can provide individuals with education on proper body mechanics, stress management techniques, and environmental modifications, which can reduce migraine triggers.

Physical therapy can be an essential component of a comprehensive migraine management plan. The therapist will work with the individual to develop a customized plan that addresses their specific needs and goals. The goal of physical therapy is to help individuals reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines and improve their overall quality of life.

In conclusion, migraines can be a debilitating condition, but physical therapy can provide a natural and effective way to manage the symptoms. By working with a physical therapist, individuals can learn how to manage their migraines and improve their overall health and wellbeing. If you are struggling with migraines, consider consulting with a physical therapist to develop a customized plan that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Jill’s story is a testament to the transformative power of physical therapy.

Struggling with low back pain for most of 2022, Jill knew that PT was an option, but hesitated to try it, thinking it might be a waste of time.It wasn’t until Jill’s once-active lifestyle became significantly constrained.

“I could only sleep for a few hours in a bed before I had to move to the couch for more support on my back. I wasn’t enjoying bike riding, long walks, or yoga anymore. I was even avoiding playing outside with my kids.”n

That’s when Jill decided to give WPT a call.

At WPT, we carefully listen to your story and needs before creating a tailored plan. In Jill’s case, we knew she would benefit from seeing two Physical Therapists with different specialties, Macy and Tyra.

Starting with massage, stretching, and muscle loosening, Macy was able to help Jill’s nervous system calm down, enabling her to focus on specific areas of her body that required attention. n

With Tyra’s guidance, Jill learned how to strengthen and engage her core. This improved her posture, stability, balance, and reduced her risk of further injury.n

“I am now back to yoga, bike riding, playing with my kids, and walking miles at a time. I hope to continue to grow my knowledge and continue my path to a healthier lifestyle.”

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort that is interfering with your daily life, take a page out of Jill’s book and seek the help of a physical therapist. You may be surprised at the transformative results you can achieve with the right guidance and support.

Don’t wait to start living your best life. Contact Wonsettler Physical Therapy today!