Chiropractor Tilburg – Migraine Treatment at Ruggensteun

A chiropractor can effectively help with migraines by reducing tension in the spine and neck that contributes to attacks. Chiropractic treatments target the structural causes of migraines, such as joint restrictions in the cervical spine and disrupted nerve communication. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about chiropractic care and migraines, from causes to treatment plans.

How can a chiropractor help with migraines?

A chiropractor helps with migraines by correcting the spine — particularly the neck vertebrae — to improve nerve communication between the brain and the body. Tension and joint restrictions in the cervical spine can trigger or worsen migraine attacks. By relieving these blockages, pressure on the nervous system decreases, and attacks can become less frequent and less intense.

Chiropractic care does not simply treat symptoms — it addresses the underlying mechanisms. When the vertebrae in the neck are not moving properly, this can affect blood flow, increase muscle tension, and heighten the sensitivity of the nervous system. All of these factors play a role in the development of migraines. By restoring spinal alignment, chiropractic care gives the body the opportunity to regulate and heal itself.

In addition to spinal adjustments, supplementary techniques may be used depending on the patient’s complaints. In some patients, muscle tension around the base of the skull contributes significantly to migraines. In those cases, dry needling can be a valuable addition to chiropractic treatment.

What causes of migraines does a chiropractor treat?

A chiropractor treats migraine causes related to the spine, nervous system, and muscles. These include joint restrictions in the upper cervical vertebrae, muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, poor posture, and pinched nerves in the cervical region. These are structural factors that can trigger or sustain migraine attacks.

Not all migraines have the same cause, but for many people the neck plays a central role. Prolonged screen use, stress, a sedentary occupation, or a previous whiplash injury can place strain on the upper cervical vertebrae. This leads to chronic tension and irritation of the nerves that influence blood vessels and pain processing in the head.

A chiropractor looks beyond the headache itself and examines the entire spine and posture. This allows contributing factors to be identified that are often overlooked in conventional treatments. This approach is fundamentally different from taking painkillers, which temporarily suppress the pain but leave the structural cause intact.

What is the difference between migraines and tension headaches?

A migraine is a neurological condition characterized by severe, often throbbing pain on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes an aura. Tension headaches feel duller and more pressing, wrap around the head, and are rarely accompanied by nausea or light sensitivity.

The distinction matters for treatment. With tension headaches, muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and jaw is the primary factor. With migraines, the nervous system is more directly involved and trigger stimuli play a greater role. Yet the two conditions frequently overlap: tight neck muscles can trigger both tension headaches and migraine attacks.

In practice, we often see that people who believe they suffer from tension headaches also have migraine sensitivity, and vice versa. A thorough intake that covers the nature, location, duration, and accompanying symptoms of the headache helps form an accurate picture and tailor treatment accordingly.

How many treatments are needed for migraines?

The number of treatments needed for migraines varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the symptoms, how long the migraines have been present, and the underlying causes. Many people notice improvement after three to six treatments, but a full course often consists of ten to twelve sessions, followed by maintenance treatments.

With chronic migraines that have been present for years, the body needs more time to recover. The spine and nervous system have developed patterns that are corrected step by step. Do not expect an immediate solution after a single treatment, but rather a gradual process in which attacks become less frequent, shorter, and less severe.

After the initial treatment course, many patients choose periodic maintenance treatments — for example, once a month or once a quarter. This helps preserve the results achieved and prevent relapse. Prevention is just as important as the treatment itself.

When is a chiropractor the right choice for headaches?

A chiropractor is the right choice for headaches when the complaints are linked to the neck, posture, or spine; when painkillers provide insufficient relief; or when you are looking for a cause-focused approach without medication. Chiropractic care is also a worthwhile option for recurring headaches that do not respond well to other treatments.

Signs that the neck may be contributing to your headaches include: headaches that start in the neck or back of the head, stiffness in the neck, headaches after prolonged screen use or driving, and headaches that worsen in certain positions. These are indicators that structural factors are contributing to your symptoms.

Chiropractic care is not the right choice for headaches that come on suddenly and with extreme intensity, or that are accompanied by fever, confusion, or neurological symptoms. In those cases, immediate medical evaluation is necessary. For most people with recurring migraines or chronic headaches, however, chiropractic care offers a safe and effective approach.

What does a first appointment at Ruggensteun for migraines involve?

At a first appointment for migraines, the chiropractor begins with a comprehensive intake. You discuss the nature of your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them, what triggers your attacks, and which treatments you have already tried. This is followed by a physical examination of the spine, neck, and posture to identify the underlying causes.

Based on the intake and examination, the chiropractor draws up a treatment plan. This plan is personalized and tailored to your specific situation. You receive a clear explanation of the findings, the proposed treatment, and what you can expect. There is always room for questions.

You do not need a referral from your doctor to make an appointment. The threshold is low, and your first appointment will give you immediate insight into whether chiropractic care is the right approach for your migraines.

How Ruggensteun helps with migraines

We specialize in treating migraines and headache complaints using a chiropractic approach. Our chiropractors examine the spine, nervous system, and posture to identify and address the structural causes of your migraines. What we offer:

• Comprehensive intake and physical examination at the first appointment
• A personalized treatment plan focused on the cause of your migraines
• Specialized techniques including spinal adjustments, dry needling, and CFR
• Quick availability, including for acute complaints
• Free parking at both locations in Eindhoven and Valkenswaard
• No doctor’s referral required

Do you suffer from recurring migraines and want to know what we can do for you? Make an appointment at Ruggensteun and take the first step toward lasting relief from your symptoms.