If you’re living with migraines, you know they’re more than “just a headache.” The throbbing pain. The nausea. The sensitivity to light and sound. It can feel like your life is constantly interrupted. But what if there was a natural, hands-on approach that could make a difference?
A recent pilot randomised controlled trial published in Cephalalgia: An International Journal of Headache explored exactly that—whether multimodal chiropractic care could help people who experience migraines. And the results are incredibly promising.
What Was This Migraine Study All About?
This pilot study recruited participants who suffered from 2 to 14 migraines per month. Over a 4-month period, half received standard medical care (control group), and the other half received multimodal chiropractic care—a blend of:
- Spinal adjustments
- Soft tissue therapy
- Postural advice
- Lifestyle and ergonomic education
The study wasn’t huge—hence “pilot”—but it was rigorous, controlled, and set the foundation for future larger-scale studies.
What Did They Find?
Those who received chiropractic care had significantly fewer migraine days per month, less pain intensity, and fewer associated symptoms like nausea and photophobia.
By the end of the trial:
🧠 Migraine frequency dropped by around 40% in the chiropractic group.
📉 Migraine intensity (pain scale) reduced more than in the control group.
🙌 People also reported better overall quality of life, reduced medication reliance, and improved function.
Even better? There were no major adverse events, reinforcing that chiropractic care, when delivered properly, is safe—even for people dealing with sensitive conditions like migraines.
What’s the Chiropractic Connection?
Chiropractic isn’t about treating symptoms—it’s about improving how the nervous system functions by restoring proper spinal motion and reducing tension in key areas like the neck and upper back.
Migraine attacks are linked to neurological hypersensitivity and vascular dysfunction, often worsened by postural stress, joint dysfunction, or muscular tension—especially around the cervicogenic (neck-related) region.
By restoring proper joint mobility and reducing nerve irritation, chiropractic care may help break the cycle of trigger → tension → migraine.
Why This Matters for Migraine Sufferers in Wellington
If you’re tired of bouncing between medications, or if you’re looking for something that addresses the root cause, chiropractic care could be worth exploring. In our Wellington chiropractic clinic, we focus on understanding your unique patterns, posture, stress triggers, and movement limitations—then work with you using a personalised approach based on the nervous system and biomechanics.
We don’t treat the migraine. We support the body’s ability to regulate itself, reduce stress, and restore balance.
And as this new study shows—that approach may be just what your body needs.
Try This: Neck Mobility Check
Here’s a simple at-home test.
Gently rotate your head left and right. Does one side feel tighter? Do you get dizzy, feel pressure behind your eyes, or notice neck tension as you move?
That might be a sign of upper cervical joint restriction—a common contributor to migraines. It’s something we assess thoroughly during our chiropractic examinations.
Final Thoughts
This study is just the beginning, but it adds to a growing body of research showing that chiropractic care isn’t just about back pain—it can play a vital role in supporting people with complex neurological issues like migraines.
If you’re seeking a chiropractor in Wellington and are living with migraines or chronic headaches, book in for a check. There’s a chance your nervous system is under more stress than you think—and we’re here to help you get back to a life with fewer interruptions.
References:
- Chaibi, A., Tuchin, P.J., & Russell, M.B. (2020). Multimodal chiropractic care for migraine: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Cephalalgia, 40(1), 87–98. https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102420963844
- International Headache Society. Migraine Facts.
- Biondi, D.M. (2005). Physical treatments for headache: a structured review. Headache, 45(6), 738-746.
Experience Limitless Movement Chiropractic Care in Wellington
If you’re in Wellington and looking for expert chiropractic care, we’re here to help. At Limitless Chiropractic, we focus on helping you move better, feel stronger, and live without limits. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier, more mobile you!
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