2. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
The current helps the tissues to relax while also interrupting the pain pathways to your brain. Your brain senses the stimuli provided by the safe current rather than the migraine pain.
TENS can be very effective for many people who suffer from migraines related to TMDs, however some people cannot tolerate the sensation of the current and need another option.
People who respond favorably to treatment with a TENS unit can use the therapy as a means to stop acute headache pain and reduce the frequency and intensity of future headaches.
3. Osteopathic Manipulation
In addition to correcting underlying joint structural problems, osteopathic manipulation can make your entire body heal. Head, back, and neck pain can all be relieved through osteopathic manipulation, and the health of the connective tissues of your TMJ can be optimized.
You may also feel more relaxed and energized. Practitioners state that osteopathic manipulation optimizes the body’s qi, also known as chi. This non-invasive therapy may be safely used by people of all ages who suffer from migraines.
Your brain and spinal cord is bathed in a liquid which is called cerebrospinal fluid. Similar to blood and lymph circulation throughout your body, cerebrospinal fluid moves within your central nervous system. Specially trained osteopaths are able to gently palpate your tissues and feel the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Gentle pressure and massage restore impairments of the flow of the fluid.
Osteopathic manipulation is often provided in combination with other holistic therapies which include stress reduction techniques, and nutritional counselling. It is especially helpful if you feel tense, or grind your teeth.
4. Low Level Laser Therapy
Low level laser therapy provides rapid relief of pain. It also reduces the likelihood of experiencing future migraines. This quick, completely painless and safe therapy can help individuals who have not had success with other forms of treatment. One treatment often provides relief, however for optimal results, multiple sessions are recommended.
My sister discovered low level laser therapy after having limited success with other treatments. She used to require pain-relieving medications almost daily but now she rarely uses pharmaceuticals. When she does require them, the dose of medication needed to relieve her pain is much lower. She has found that going for one or two low level laser therapy treatments every few months provides her with a high quality of comfort.
5. Myofascial Release
Our bodies contain a fine, stretchable connective tissue called fascia. Fascia is woven throughout our muscles and other tissues of our bodies. Because fascia is so fine, it is not clearly visible with the use of X-rays and other imaging equipment. When fascia is unhealthy, it loses its flexibility and pain may result.
Myofascial release can restore the flexibility of fascia, which results in decreased pain. You may feel better all over since fascia is one tissue that reaches from head to toe.
The gentle, hands on technique is suitable for adults and children who experience TMD-related migraines. Several sessions may be needed.
