Migraines
Migraines are more than just headaches
they are a neurological condition that can disrupt daily life, causing intense pain and a wide range of debilitating symptoms. At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we address migraines using a functional neurology approach that targets the root causes to provide long-term relief.
What Are Migraines?
Migraines are a type of headache characterized by recurrent, intense pain, often accompanied by additional symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines are neurological in nature and can last from a few hours to several days, significantly impacting quality of life.
Common Migraine Symptoms
Throbbing or pulsing pain, typically on one side of the head
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
Nausea or vomiting
Visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or blind spots (aura)
Dizziness or vertigo
Difficulty concentrating
Brain fog
Types of Migraines
Migraine without Aura
The most common type of migraine. This migraine occurs without warning signs but includes intense, pulsing pain and other typical migraine symptoms.
Migraine with Aura
This type is preceded by sensory disturbances, such as visual flashes, tingling sensations, or speech difficulties. The aura typically lasts 20–60 minutes before the headache phase begins.
Vestibular Migraines
A migraine that causes dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues. These migraines can occur with or without traditional migraine headache pain.
Vestibular Migraines
Vestibular migraines cause dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance, with or without head pain. They are triggered by disruptions in the vestibular system, which affects balance and spatial awareness.
Hemiplegic Migraine
Hemiplegic migraines are a rare type of migraine that mimics stroke symptoms, including temporary muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, severe headaches, and other neurological disturbances.
Chronic Migraines
Chronic migraines occur 15 or more days a month for at least three months, making them a particularly challenging condition to manage.
Hormonal Migraines
These migraines are triggered by hormonal fluctuations, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.
Causes of Migraines
Migraines result from a complex interaction of neurological, genetic, and environmental factors. Identifying and addressing these root causes is key to effective treatment. Common triggers and contributing factors include:
Oculomotor Dysfunction: Poor coordination of eye movements can contribute to visual strain and migraine onset.
Environmental Triggers: Bright lights, strong smells, weather changes, and certain foods or beverages.
Concussions or Post-Concussion Syndrome: Head injuries can lead to chronic migraines due to untreated neurological imbalances.
Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels often play a role in triggering migraines, particularly in women.
Stress and Emotional Factors: Stress and emotions can directly trigger migraines by affecting the nervous system and its functioning.
How Functional NEurology
Can Help
At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we take a personalized, non-invasive approach to migraine treatment by focusing on restoring neurological balance and function. Our comprehensive assessments and targeted therapies address the root causes of migraines for lasting relief.
How We Treat Migraines
Vestibular Therapy: Improves balance and addresses dizziness and vertigo common in vestibular migraines.
Oculomotor Rehabilitation: Improving accuracy and functionality of the 6 different types of eye movements can reduce visual triggers of migraines.
Post-Concussion Care: Specialized therapies for patients whose migraines stem from past head trauma or concussion.
Manual Therapy: Addresses muscular imbalances and spinal dysfunction that may contribute to migraine symptoms.
Autonomic Nervous System Regulation: Balances the sympathetic “fight or flight” system with the parasympathetic “rest and digest” system.
Why Choose Clarity Brain and Body Clinic?
Dr. Timko is dedicated to helping patients achieve freedom from migraines. She understands that migraines are more than just headaches—they are a complex neurological condition that requires a compassionate and individualized approach.
Take Control of Your Migraines Today
You don’t have to let migraines control your life. At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we are here to help you find relief and regain your quality of life. Schedule a free discovery call with Dr. Timko today to learn how we can help you manage and overcome your migraines.