Chiropractor for Migraines in Paris — Treatment of Headaches and Cephalalgia
Migraines and chronic headaches affect more than 10 million people in France. While medication provides temporary relief, it doesn't address the underlying cause. Chiropractic offers a natural and lasting approach to reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines and tension headaches.
Our chiropractic practice in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris specializes in treating headaches of cervical origin and tension headaches. The chiropractor identifies the spinal and muscular dysfunctions that trigger your migraines and offers a tailored chiropractic treatment, without medication.
Migraines are often linked to neck pain and may be accompanied by dizziness.
Types of Headaches Treated by a Chiropractor
The chiropractor distinguishes between different types of headaches in order to tailor their treatment to your specific situation.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches account for 90% of all headaches. They cause a crushing or band-like pain, typically felt on both sides, and range from mild to moderate in intensity. They are often linked to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, stress, and fatigue. Chiropractic care is particularly effective for this type of headache.
Migraines
Migraine is an intense, throbbing headache, often on one side of the body, that can last from 4 to 72 hours. It is frequently accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and sensitivity to sound (phonophobia). Some migraines are preceded by an aura (visual disturbances). Chiropractic care can help reduce their frequency and intensity.
Cervicogenic headaches
Cervicogenic headaches are headaches caused by dysfunctions of the upper cervical vertebrae (C1-C3). The pain originates in the neck or base of the skull and radiates to the forehead, temples, or behind the eyes. This is the type of headache for which chiropractic care offers the best results.
Causes of Headaches: The Link with the Cervical Spine
The chiropractor identifies the mechanical and postural factors that trigger or worsen your migraines and headaches.
Cervical Dysfunction and Headaches
The upper cervical vertebrae (atlas and axis) are closely linked to the nervous system that controls blood flow to the head. Subluxations or stiffness of these vertebrae can disrupt circulation and nerve impulses, triggering headaches. The trigeminal nerve and the greater occipital nerve (Arnold's nerve), responsible for sensation in the skull, pass through this area.
Muscle Tension and Stress
Tension in the suboccipital, trapezius, and sternocleidomastoid muscles creates trigger points that radiate to the head. Chronic stress, screen work, and lack of sleep amplify this tension and increase the frequency of headaches.
How Chiropractors Treat Migraines and Headaches
Chiropractic treatment for headaches addresses the cause rather than the symptom, for a lasting result.
Upper Cervical Adjustments
Adjustments to the upper cervical vertebrae (C1-C3) are central to chiropractic treatment for headaches. These gentle and precise manipulations restore mobility and alignment to the craniocervical junction, reducing nerve irritation and improving blood flow to the head.
Relaxation of the Suboccipital Muscles
The chiropractor releases tension in the muscles at the base of the skull using pressure, stretching, and mobilization techniques. Working on the trigger points of the suboccipital and upper trapezius muscles often provides immediate relief from headaches.
Comprehensive Approach and Prevention
Your chiropractor assesses the triggers of your migraines (posture, stress, sleep, diet) and offers a comprehensive treatment plan. Cervical relaxation exercises, ergonomic advice, and regular follow-up appointments help to reduce the frequency of attacks in the long term.
Your Chiropractic Consultation for Migraines
Headache Summary
During the initial consultation, your chiropractor will ask you detailed questions about your headaches: frequency, duration, location, intensity, triggers, and treatments already tried. A complete physical examination of the cervical spine and posture will round out the assessment.
Care Program
The treatment program is tailored to the type and frequency of your headaches. Typically, 6 to 8 sessions over 4 to 6 weeks are recommended for tension or cervicogenic headaches. For migraines, a follow-up over 2 to 3 months allows us to assess the reduction in attack frequency.
Results of Chiropractic Treatment for Headaches
Clinical studies confirm the effectiveness of chiropractic for headaches. A study from the Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center concluded that cervical manipulations are effective for cervicogenic and tension headaches. Research published in the European Journal of Neurology shows that patients treated with chiropractic reduce their migraine medication use by an average of 36%. In our Paris practice, patients report a 50% to 80% reduction in headache frequency after one course of treatment.
When to Consult a Chiropractor for Headaches?
- Recurrent headaches more than twice a week
- Migraines that no longer respond to usual medications
- Headaches accompanied by stiffness or pain in the neck
- Headaches related to screen work or posture
- Headaches upon waking or after a bad night's sleep
- Desire to reduce the consumption of painkillers
Frequently Asked Questions — Chiropractor and Migraines
Relieve your migraines with a chiropractor in Paris
You don't have to live with headaches. Our chiropractic clinic in Paris's 2nd arrondissement offers a natural and effective treatment for migraines, tension headaches, and cervicogenic headaches. Book an appointment online at Doctolib and reduce your headaches for good.