Editor’s note: This guest post comes from Dr. Adam Tanase, Upper Cervical Doctor in St. Louis, and official chiropractic expert for MedHelp.org.

Migraine headaches: the hidden problem

While science is yet to fully understand the exact cause of migraine headaches, current findings demonstrate vascular and neurological mechanisms. Evidence suggests that during a migraine, dilated blood vessels are sending nerve signals to the brainstem and sensory cortex causing central sensitization. This forces patients to feel pain from sensations that are normally not painful (like pulsating blood vessels), as well as pain that’s resistant to peripherally-focused medical treatments.

The image above shows the base of the skull where the brainstem passes through the foramen magnum. The root/vine-like tubes seen here are blood vessels. This picture demonstrates important blood vessels of the head and their proximity to the upper cervical region. It also depicts the intimate relationship between the the first cervical bone (atlas, C1) and the brainstem.

For almost a decade I’ve been speaking with headache/migraine sufferers about chiropractic care, and more specifically, the Upper Cervical adjusting procedure. Through these conversations, I’ve realized that a lot of people have attempted some form of full-spine chiropractic manipulation (with mixed results), but very few knew about Upper Cervical Care, and were never told there was a difference.

Upper Cervical doctors have a distinct biomechanical and physiological perspective that other health care providers do not offer their patients. Our unique analysis of the relationship between the head and neck is what enables so many migraine sufferers to get lasting relief.

So if you suffer from chronic migraine headaches, Upper Cervical Care is certainly worth consideration.

If you’d like help finding a specialist in your area, email me and I’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.

To read more from Dr. Adam Tanase, please visit him at his insightful blog DrTanase.Com.

According to a story published in First Magazine, Washington based Diane Matson found relief for debilitating headaches through NUCCA. Matson had experienced migraines since her teen years, and had never found a solution for the pain until she discovered upper cervical care.

As an actress Matson didn’t like relying on prescription pain killers. They dulled the pain but they also left her groggy and unable to audtion for roles.

Lucky for Diane there’s several competent NUCCA doctors in Washington state. “…The doctor pressed behind Diane’s ears and jaw for several minutes–the start of a gradual straightening process. After a month of treatments, Diane’s headaches were history.”

Said Diane:  “Now I’m prepping for a new TV role. My migraines are no longer a scene stealer.”