Conversely, the severe pain associated with migraine may lead to stress and tightening of the muscles in the neck area. Manual therapy may help improve motion and enhance relaxation. In your first visit to a physiotherapist or chiropractor, you will have a consultation, examination and possibly an x-ray. In subsequent visits, chiropractors use gentle manipulations to adjust the spine, while physiotherapists encourage conditioning of the strained area. According to the theories of chiropractic and physiotherapy, these techniques work to restore normal functioning, to correct the causes of irritation and to increase the range of motion.
Many clinics also give nutritional counseling, relaxation training and exercise therapy.
Check with a qualified health practitioner to determine if manual therapy is appropriate for you. With a referral from your doctor, manual therapy is often covered by provincial health plans to some extent. Check for coverage in your province.