Biofeedback for Migraine Headaches
Triggers, Traditional Feedback Therapies, Neurotherapy
Since the 1960s, biofeedback has become more acceptable as a viable treatment option for migraine headaches. An individual undergoing such therapy is hooked to a machine that measures body functions, allowing him to learn to control heart rate, blood pressure, skin temperatures, even brain wave patterns in order to manage physical pain.
Biofeedback also helps patients manage stress which is the most common trigger for headaches. Migraine sufferers learn to control pain by avoiding triggers, using traditional feedback therapies and the more recently developed neurotherapy.
Triggers
The plastic and virtual technologies of modern life are often triggers for a full blown migraine. These include bright lights, fluorescent light, TV and movie viewing, computer use, excessive noise and sleep problems.
Triggers often cause a blood flow imbalance. Blood flow is increased in the head, causing blood vessels on the surface of the brain to swell, sending pain signals to the brainstem, which is most often felt around the eye or temple area. At the same time, blood flow to the extremities is decreased.
Despite the severity of the pain which can immobilize the sufferer, tests have not been able to confirm organic causes for migraines. Treatment, therefore, usually involves the use of anti-inflammatory medication and avoidance of triggers.
Traditional Feedback Therapies
Traditional biofeedback therapies offer an alternative treatment option for migraines; these include thermal biofeedback (controlling body temperature), electromyogram, also known as EMG (controlling muscle tension) and blood flow biofeedback. Thermal biofeedback is based on the assumption that warming the extremities can re-balance blood flow, allowing the congestion in the head to dissipate as blood moves towards the extremities. Electromyogram therapy allows the individual to understand how his body responds when stressed and learn effective measures to release the stress.
Are these therapies effective?
In a 2002 study, 40 migraine sufferers were randomly selected to participate in a biofeedback therapy group or a control group. The therapy group underwent twelve 50 minute sessions of thermal and EMG biofeedback therapies. Results showed that the therapy group reported a decline in the severity of headaches and in the use of medication to control pain.
Neurotherapy
Neurotherapy, also known as neurofeedback , monitors the central nervous system. It is a relatively new form of therapy as it uses an EEG to measure brain wave activity and display information about the central nervous system, blood flow and thermal activity from the brain. Individuals are given information about their brainwaves and taught to alter their brain activity.
Brainwaves, measured through sensors attached to the scalp, are converted into video games that individuals can manipulate or change. A 2008 study conducted by The Better Brain Center showed that 70% of the participants achieved at least 50% reduction in the frequency of their migraines. This result presents a much better performance than standard medications where only 50% of patients achieve 50% reduction in the frequency of headaches.
New developments in the control of triggers through body response and feedback is a boon to migraine sufferers who can be assured with the knowledge that their pain can be effectively minimized with natural biofeedback therapies.
Biofeedback
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles