According to Web MD there are 150 different types of headaches. But migraines fall into a special category: They are often triggered directly from the brain, resulting from inflammation in the cerebral blood vessels. So it would make sense that a permanent solution would-need to target the brain directly. That is why researchers have been looking into brain-based therapies.
Migraines are the most debilitating form of common headache that people seek medical attention for, and it currently affects some 29 million Americans. They can last from a few hours to up to several days and also tend to be recurring over time. Sensitivity to light and nausea are common accompanying symptoms. In addition to illness, stress and diet, other possible triggers include pollution, noise, lighting, and weather changes. 90% of migraine headaches run in families, so there is often a genetic factor at work as well.
Medication is the most common treatment option for migraines, but they can also be very ineffective. That is why may people are turning to brain based therapies like neurofeedback.
Neurofeedback can be very effective in reducing the intensity and frequency of migraines. Even better, it comes without the common side effects of migraine medication.
In a clinical study on migraines and neurofeedback, 37 migraine patients received neurofeedback sessions over a period of weeks. 70% of them experienced at least a 50% reduction in the frequency of their headaches, with permanent results still present 6 months after treatment.
In another migraine neurofeedback study, the majority of subjects experienced complete cessation of their migraines, and many others (39%) experienced a reduction in migraine frequency of greater than 50%.
But here’s another benefit: Those who have neurofeedback treatment for migraines can also experience a reduction in other non-related symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, and focus issues. That’s because neurofeedback does not target specific conditions. It changes timing and activation patterns in the brain, allowing the patient’s brain to function more optimally. Now that is a therapy worth looking into!
