If you suffer from migraines, you know how overwhelming they can be. The pounding headaches, sensitivity to light, nausea, and more can make it hard to get through the day. But did you know that neck pain is often linked to migraines? Many people experience tight, sore muscles in their neck and shoulders, which can trigger or worsen migraine symptoms.
The Connection Between Migraines, Neck Pain, and the Nervous System
Migraines are part of a more complex system that often involves the neck and shoulders. People with migraines often have increased sensitivity in these muscles, particularly in areas like the trapezius and suboccipital muscles. This muscle tension doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can make everyday activities painful and even prolong or trigger a migraine attack.
But the relationship between migraines and the body goes even deeper, involving the nervous system. Migraines can cause the nervous system to become overactive, leading to heightened sensitivity to pain and worsening symptoms. This is why addressing both the physical and nervous system components is essential for effective migraine care.
Why Specialized Care is Key
This is where specialized care makes all the difference. At Gate City Physio, we focus on treating both the musculoskeletal issues and the nervous system regulation that contribute to migraines. Our team understands how the neck, shoulders, and nervous system play a role in migraine pain, and we create individualized treatment plans that target these areas.
Specialized services include:
Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to release tension in the muscles and improve joint mobility.
Stretching and strengthening exercises: Customized exercises to help relieve muscle imbalances and reduce neck and shoulder tension.
Nervous system regulation: Techniques designed to help calm and balance the nervous system, reducing pain sensitivity and improving migraine management.
Patient education: We’ll teach you how to manage your neck pain, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle factors to help reduce migraine triggers in your everyday life.
The Benefits of Migraine-Specific Care
A recent study by Bevilaqua-Grossi and colleagues (2023) showed that physical therapy designed specifically for migraine patients can significantly reduce neck pain and cut down on the frequency of migraines. By addressing both muscle tension and nervous system dysfunction, our specialized approach at Gate City Physio helps you experience long-term relief.
Take Control of Your Migraines
Migraines and neck pain don’t have to control your life. With the right care, you can manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. At Gate City Physio, we provide specialized services to address both the physical and nervous system aspects of migraines, giving you the tools and support you need to find lasting relief.
 Dr. Corey Hillman is a Physical Therapist and owner of Gate City Physio – a boutique physical therapy clinic in Downtown Greensboro. He specializes in helping individuals suffering from jaw pain, headaches and neck pain regain their freedom and get back to enjoying the little things in life.
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