Can a Chiropractor Help With Migraines?

Yes, a chiropractor can help with migraines. Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system, and for many people, tension in the cervical vertebrae plays a direct role in triggering migraine attacks. By correcting the spine and improving nerve communication, the frequency and intensity of migraines can be reduced.

This is especially true for people whose migraines are linked to muscle tension, postural problems, or pressure in the cervical spine. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about chiropractic care and migraines, so you know what to expect.

What causes migraines according to chiropractic care?

According to the chiropractic perspective, migraines often arise from disturbances in the spine, particularly in the cervical region, which interfere with nerve communication between the brain and the body. When vertebrae in the neck do not move properly or are slightly misaligned, this can place tension on nearby nerves and blood vessels, which can trigger or intensify a migraine attack.

Chiropractic care views the nervous system as the central link in the health of the entire body. The spine protects the spinal cord, and disturbances within it can have far-reaching consequences — including for complaints that at first glance seem unrelated to the back, such as headaches and migraines.

Common causes that chiropractors see in migraine patients include:

• Muscle tension and cramping in the neck and shoulders due to prolonged sitting or a forward-leaning posture
• Stress, which physically manifests as increased muscle tension around the spine
• Sleep deprivation or an irregular sleep pattern that increases the load on the spine
• Subluxations, small misalignments in the cervical vertebrae that put pressure on nerves

So it’s not just about what you feel in your head, but about what is structurally happening in your neck and spine.

How does a chiropractor treat migraines?

A chiropractor treats migraines by correcting the spine — particularly the cervical vertebrae — and restoring mobility. This reduces pressure on the nerves and muscles that play a role in migraine attacks. The treatment is non-invasive and aimed at addressing the underlying cause rather than suppressing symptoms.

Depending on the findings during the initial examination, the chiropractor selects an appropriate technique. Two commonly used approaches are:

Slow stretch movement

With a slow, fluid stretch movement, the spine is gradually decompressed. This is a gentle approach aimed at relaxing the muscles and intervertebral discs, without abrupt impulses. Suitable for people with heightened muscle tension or sensitivity in the neck.

HVLA technique

The HVLA technique, also known as High Velocity Low Amplitude, is a rapid movement with a limited range of motion. It is used when a specific vertebra is blocked and requires a direct chiropractic adjustment. It is a recognized method within manual medicine that is applied worldwide.

In addition to these techniques, the chiropractor may also work with spinal decompression using the Y-Strap method. This involves pulling the head along the vertical axis of the body, which releases built-up pressure in the intervertebral discs in a targeted manner. This can be particularly effective for migraines associated with pressure in the cervical spine.

What does research say about chiropractic care and migraines?

Research into chiropractic care and migraines shows promising results, although the field is still very much developing. Multiple studies suggest that spinal manipulation can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks, particularly in people where neck complaints play a clear role.

International professional organizations recognize chiropractic care as a treatment option for certain types of headaches, including cervicogenic headache — a type of headache that originates from the neck and can closely resemble migraines. The boundary between these forms is not always clear-cut, which explains why chiropractic care can also provide relief for migraines.

What research consistently shows is that chiropractic care works best as part of a broader approach: in combination with attention to posture, stress, sleep, and lifestyle. It is not a miracle cure, but for some migraine sufferers it is an effective and safe complement to — or alternative to — medication.

Who is chiropractic care for migraines suitable for?

Chiropractic care for migraines is most suitable for people in whom neck tension, postural problems, or spinal issues demonstrably play a role in triggering their attacks. Think of people who experience more migraines after a long day at their desk, or whose attacks begin with stiffness in the neck.

The treatment is also suitable for people who:

• Prefer to use little or no medication
• Experience recurring migraine attacks despite previous treatments
• Suffer from neck pain, shoulder pain, or tension headaches in addition to migraines
• Are looking for an approach that addresses the cause rather than merely dulling the pain

Chiropractic care is suitable for people of all ages, including pregnant women looking for a safe, non-invasive treatment option. A chiropractor always assesses individually whether the treatment is appropriate.

How many treatments are needed for migraines?

The number of treatments needed for migraines varies per person and depends on the severity of the complaints, how long they have existed, and the underlying cause. On average, people notice a marked improvement after three to six treatments, but more sessions are often needed for structural recovery.

For chronic migraines or long-standing neck complaints, a treatment plan spanning several months may be drawn up. After the intensive phase, many people follow a maintenance programme to prevent relapse and keep the spine in balance.

During the initial consultation, the chiropractor examines your specific situation and draws up a treatment plan with a realistic estimate of the number of sessions. Transparent explanation of the expected trajectory is an important part of the approach.

When is a chiropractor not the right choice for migraines?

A chiropractor is not always the right first step for migraines. When there is a sudden, extremely severe headache that feels different from normal, neurological deficits such as speech problems or loss of strength, or fever combined with neck stiffness, immediate medical attention is necessary. These can be signs of a serious condition that chiropractic care cannot treat.

Chiropractic care is also less suitable when migraines have no connection to the spine but are entirely hormonal, genetic, or neurological in nature. In those cases, collaboration with a neurologist or other specialist is recommended.

Furthermore, there are certain conditions for which spinal manipulation is not advised, such as severe osteoporosis, certain vascular conditions, or recent vertebral fractures. A good chiropractor always screens for these during the initial consultation and refers on when necessary.

How we at Ruggensteun help with migraines

At Ruggensteun, we treat migraines from a holistic perspective on the spine and nervous system. We always look for the structural cause of your complaints, rather than simply relieving the pain. What we offer:

• Specialized chiropractors with expertise in neck complaints, headaches, and migraines
• Y-Strap treatments, performed by one of the few certified chiropractors in the Netherlands for this technique
• Personalized treatment plan tailored to your complaints, lifestyle, and goals
• Quick availability for urgent cases, without a referral from your GP
• Locations in Eindhoven and Valkenswaard, both with free parking facilities

Do you suffer from recurring migraines and want to know whether chiropractic care could help you? Contact us or book an appointment directly. We’d love to work with you to find an approach that works.