Migraines and Neck Pain: How Chiropractic Care Can Provide Relief

If you’ve been battling migraines or neck pain, you know how frustrating it can be to jump from one doctor to the next, only to get temporary relief or another prescription that only masks the symptoms. At Spinal Couture, we believe in a different approach. We are not your typical doctor’s office—we’ve created a space where your healing journey becomes a priority, addressing the root cause of your discomfort while offering you a third place to focus on your well-being.

Spinal Couture is more than a chiropractic practice—it’s a unique, nurturing environment where healing happens. Our practice is designed to be your “third place”—a space that isn’t work or home, but a retreat where you can come to restore

your health and feel your best. We’ve created a supportive community, and whether you’re using our gym to improve your mobility or relaxing in our relaxation room to de-stress, we’re here to help you on your journey toward lasting relief.

I take a personalized approach to care that starts with a detailed assessment of your symptoms and lifestyle. For migraines and neck pain, this often begins with the upper cervical spine and includes evaluating the jaw, posture, and even the rib alignment. Together, we’ll build a customized treatment plan designed to alleviate your discomfort at its source. At Spinal Couture, you’re more than a patient—you’re part of our community of care.

If you’re ready for a natural, effective way to manage your migraines or neck pain, book an appointment today and take the first step toward feeling better. Let’s explore how chiropractic care can help you find relief, reclaim your health, and live without pain.

Migraines and Neck Pain: A Journey Through History and How Chiropractic Care Provides Long-Term Relief

Migraines and neck pain are conditions that have affected people for thousands of years. Today, we understand migraines as a complex neurological disorder, but throughout history, these severe headaches were often misunderstood, and treatments ranged from the spiritual to the supernatural. A deeper look into the history of migraines helps us appreciate how far we’ve come in understanding and managing these conditions, especially with modern, holistic solutions like chiropractic care.

The Ancient World: Spiritual Interpretations and Early Remedies

In ancient Egypt, migraines were often thought to be caused by supernatural forces or divine punishment. Egyptian healers, who also acted as spiritual leaders, believed that migraines were a sign of displeasure from the gods. To treat them, they combined herbal remedies—using plants like henbane and poppy seed extracts—with prayers and rituals aimed at appeasing these higher powers. This approach reflected the common belief that physical pain, especially one as mysterious as migraines, had spiritual origins. Although herbal remedies provided some relief due to their mild sedative effects, they did not address the root cause of the condition.

In ancient Greece, the understanding of migraines shifted to a more physiological explanation. Hippocrates, known as the "Father of Medicine," was one of the first to describe migraine symptoms, including visual disturbances and intense pain on one side of the head. Hippocrates believed migraines were caused by an imbalance of the body’s humors—the four bodily fluids believed to control health: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. His treatments focused on rebalancing these humors through practices like bloodletting and vomiting, alongside dietary changes. Although primitive, these were among the first documented attempts to treat migraines through medical intervention rather than spiritual means.

Later, in ancient Rome, the famous physician Galen expanded on Hippocrates’ work, suggesting that migraines were caused by an excess of blood in the head, which placed pressure on the brain. His treatments were similar to Hippocrates’, involving bloodletting and herbal concoctions to reduce the supposed excess. Although these methods provided only temporary relief, they reflected the ancient world’s attempt to manage the condition with the limited knowledge they had of human anatomy and the nervous system.

The Middle Ages and Renaissance: A Step Backwards Before Progress

During the Middle Ages, medical knowledge regressed as spiritual and mystical explanations for illnesses re-emerged. Migraines were often seen as divine punishment or caused by evil spirits, leading to treatments such as prayers, incantations, and even exorcisms. Herbal remedies were still used, but the underlying cause of migraines remained misunderstood, and there was little progress in terms of effective treatments.

It wasn’t until the Renaissance that significant advancements in anatomy and medicine began to reshape the understanding of migraines. Physicians like Andreas Vesalius conducted detailed studies of the human body, which laid the foundation for a better understanding of the nervous system. However, effective treatments for migraines were still elusive, with most interventions focusing on alleviating symptoms rather than addressing underlying causes.

The Modern Era: The Neurological and Musculoskeletal Understanding of Migraines

By the 19th and 20th centuries, medical science had advanced significantly, leading to a deeper understanding of the neurological basis of migraines. Physicians recognized that migraines were not simply a result of imbalances in bodily fluids, but rather a complex condition involving nerve pathways, blood vessels, and brain function. During this period, scientists discovered that nerve compression and blood flow issues could trigger migraine episodes, shedding light on some of the physical causes behind the debilitating headaches.

Simultaneously, musculoskeletal issues—such as spinal misalignment and tension in the neck—were also identified as key contributors to both migraines and neck pain. Poor posture, especially from modern-day activities like sitting at desks or using smartphones, put significant strain on the cervical spine, often leading to nerve compression that could trigger both tension headaches and migraines.

These discoveries laid the groundwork for the development of chiropractic care, which emerged as a natural, non-invasive way to address the root causes of migraines and neck pain. By focusing on restoring proper spinal alignment and relieving nerve pressure, chiropractors have been able to offer lasting relief for patients suffering from these conditions.

Chiropractic Care: The Holistic Solution for Migraines and Neck Pain

Today, chiropractic care is widely recognized as one of the most effective treatments for both migraines and neck pain because it focuses on correcting spinal misalignments that disrupt nerve function. Unlike conventional treatments that may only mask symptoms through painkillers or injections, chiropractic care works by realigning the spine, particularly in the upper cervical region, where the C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae reside. These vertebrae play a crucial role in supporting the head and protecting the nerves that control communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

When these vertebrae become misaligned, they can irritate or compress nerves, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including neck pain, headaches, and migraines. Through gentle chiropractic adjustments, chiropractors can restore proper alignment, reducing nerve irritation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can help prevent future migraine attacks.

In addition to upper cervical adjustments, chiropractors often address other key areas, such as the jaw (TMJ) and rib alignment, both of which can contribute to muscle tension and postural issues that exacerbate migraines. By treating these underlying musculoskeletal problems, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach that not only provides relief from migraines and neck pain but also helps prevent their recurrence.

If you’re dealing with chronic migraines or neck pain, and traditional treatments haven’t provided lasting relief, chiropractic care might be the solution you’ve been searching for. At Spinal Couture, we focus on identifying and addressing the root causes of your discomfort, offering a holistic, natural approach to healing. By correcting spinal misalignments and relieving nerve pressure, we help your body restore its natural balance and function at its best.

A Brief History of Neck Pain Treatments

Like migraines, neck pain has troubled people for centuries, and its treatments have evolved over time. For many years, neck pain was poorly understood, often attributed to poor posture, overwork, or even spiritual beliefs. As medical knowledge advanced, so too did the treatments for neck pain, although many were incomplete or failed to address the underlying causes.

Ancient China: Balancing the Body’s Energy

In ancient China, neck pain was frequently linked to an imbalance in the body’s vital energy, or Qi. Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believed that pain was caused by disruptions in the flow of Qi along specific pathways, called meridians, which run through the body. To restore balance and relieve neck pain, acupuncture became one of the most common treatments. By inserting fine needles into specific points along these meridians, Chinese healers aimed to release blockages, reduce tension, and promote healing.

While rooted in ancient metaphysical concepts, acupuncture has stood the test of time and remains a popular and effective treatment for certain types of neck pain today. Modern research has validated its ability to relieve muscle tension and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, particularly for chronic neck pain and related conditions.

Ancient Greece and Rome: Early Manipulation and Massage

In ancient Greece and Rome, neck pain was typically treated with physical manipulation and massage therapies. The Greeks, influenced by the teachings of Hippocrates, recognized the importance of spinal health and advocated for manual therapies to relieve tension in the neck and shoulders. Hippocrates is even credited with developing early forms of spinal manipulation, where he would use his hands to reposition vertebrae and relieve pressure on the nerves.

The Romans, following in the Greeks’ footsteps, expanded on these ideas by incorporating massage techniques to relax the muscles and restore mobility to the neck. Roman soldiers, who often suffered from neck and back pain due to the physical demands of battle, were treated with a combination of massage, herbal remedies, and spinal adjustments. While these methods provided temporary relief, they lacked the precision and understanding that modern chiropractic care offers today.

Despite the limitations of these ancient treatments, they represented the early recognition that physical manipulation could help alleviate neck pain—a concept that laid the groundwork for future advancements in manual therapy.

The Middle Ages: Neck Pain as Divine Punishment

The Middle Ages marked a period of regression in medical knowledge, particularly in Europe. Neck pain, like many other ailments, was often seen as a symptom of divine punishment or moral failing. During this time, scientific approaches to medicine took a backseat to religious beliefs, and treatments for neck pain became heavily influenced by superstition.

People suffering from neck pain would often turn to prayers, pilgrimages, or even rituals meant to cleanse their souls or appease divine forces. The belief was that healing could only occur through divine intervention, and practical medical treatments were often overlooked. As a result, neck pain sufferers received little in the way of effective relief during this period, and many endured chronic pain without adequate solutions.

The Renaissance: Rebirth of Anatomical Study and Spinal Health

The Renaissance brought about a renewed interest in science and the human body. Physicians and anatomists like Andreas Vesalius began to challenge the long-held spiritual explanations for pain, turning instead to the study of anatomy and the musculoskeletal system. Vesalius, in particular, made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of the human spine and its role in health.

By carefully studying the structure of the vertebrae, muscles, and nerves, Vesalius and his contemporaries recognized that neck pain was often caused by problems in the spinal alignment. This marked a significant shift away from mystical explanations and toward a more scientific understanding of neck pain. Although treatments were still rudimentary by today’s standards, this period laid the foundation for future innovations in spinal health and manual therapy.

The Rise of Chiropractic Care: A Breakthrough in Neck Pain Treatment

It wasn’t until the late 19th century that neck pain treatment took a major leap forward with the rise of chiropractic care. In 1895, D.D. Palmer, the founder of chiropractic, performed the first chiropractic adjustment and introduced the concept that spinal health plays a crucial role in overall well-being. Palmer believed that misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, interfered with the body’s nervous system, leading to pain and dysfunction, including neck pain.

Chiropractic care revolutionized the treatment of neck pain by offering a non-invasive, natural approach that focused on spinal alignment and nerve function. Chiropractors recognized that misalignments in the cervical spine could compress nerves, restrict blood flow, and lead to muscle tension, all of which contribute to chronic neck pain. Through precise spinal adjustments, chiropractic care aims to restore proper alignment, relieve pressure on the nerves, and allow the body to heal itself naturally.

Unlike many treatments that only address symptoms, chiropractic care targets the underlying causes of neck pain, providing long-term relief. Chiropractic adjustments improve the function of the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and promote spinal mobility, helping patients experience lasting improvements in both pain and overall health. The rise of chiropractic care represented a major breakthrough in neck pain treatment, offering a more comprehensive and effective solution than many previous methods.

Other Forms of Treatment for Migraines and Neck Pain: Why They Often Fall Short

Over the years, many different treatments have been used to address migraines and neck pain. Some of these methods focus on providing short-term relief, while others aim to manage chronic symptoms over the long term. However, most fail to address the root cause of the problem, which is often linked to spinal misalignment or nerve irritation.

Medication and Painkillers

The most common treatment for both migraines and neck pain is the use of medications like pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants. While these drugs can offer temporary relief, they don’t solve the underlying issue. Painkillers merely mask the symptoms, often leading patients to rely on them over time without addressing what’s truly causing the pain.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe preventive medications or steroid injections to reduce inflammation or manage recurring migraines. These treatments can be effective in the short term but come with a range of potential side effects, including dependency and long-term health risks. They don’t tackle the structural problems in the spine or muscles that may be at the heart of the issue.

Physical Therapy and Massage

Many people turn to physical therapy or massage for relief from neck pain and migraines. While these treatments can help relax muscles and improve mobility, they are often limited in scope. Physical therapy tends to focus on strengthening muscles and improving range of motion, while massage therapy works to relieve tension in tight muscles. While helpful, these treatments do not always address spinal misalignment or deeper nerve irritation, which may be the real cause of the problem.

Surgical Options

For severe cases, particularly when there’s significant nerve compression, doctors may recommend surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves in the neck or spine. However, surgery is invasive and carries risks such as infection, long recovery times, and in some cases, chronic pain after the procedure. It’s typically viewed as a last resort and is not a suitable option for many patients with migraines or neck pain.

Why Spinal Couture Is Your Third Place for Wellness

At Spinal Couture, I believe that healing happens when you take time to focus on yourself in a space that feels supportive and nurturing. That’s why we’ve designed our practice to be more than just a chiropractic office—it’s your third place. With our gym, you’ll have the tools to strengthen your body and improve mobility, while our relaxation room offers a serene space to unwind and de-stress. We provide everything you need to heal in body and mind.

If you’re in South Plainfield or Central Jersey, I’d love to help you find relief from your migraines and neck pain. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward feeling better. At Spinal Couture, we’ll work together to uncover the root of your pain, so you can reclaim your life and start living without discomfort.

Why Chiropractic Care Is the Best Option for Migraines and Neck Pain

Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive, non-invasive solution that directly addresses the root cause of migraines and neck pain. Unlike conventional treatments that tend to focus solely on symptom relief, such as pain medications or muscle relaxants, chiropractic care works by restoring the body’s natural balance and supporting its ability to heal. The foundation of chiropractic treatment lies in spinal alignment, particularly in the upper cervical spine, which plays a crucial role in nerve function and muscle health. By addressing misalignments (also called subluxations), chiropractic adjustments can relieve the nerve pressure and tension that often trigger migraines and neck pain.

For many people, migraines and neck pain are connected to musculoskeletal issues, particularly in the spine, jaw, and upper back. This is why addressing the alignment and function of these areas can provide profound and lasting relief. Chiropractic care is designed to treat these issues in a holistic way, meaning it focuses on correcting the underlying dysfunctions rather than simply managing pain. By taking a whole-body approach, chiropractic adjustments aim to improve overall spinal health, alleviate pressure on the nervous system, and promote long-term wellness.

1. Upper Cervical Adjustments: The Key to Lasting Migraine and Neck Pain Relief

One of the most important areas I focus on when treating migraines and neck pain is the upper cervical spine, particularly the C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae. These two vertebrae are incredibly important because they sit at the top of your spine, directly supporting the skull. They are responsible for the majority of the head and neck movement, but they also play a critical role in protecting the brainstem and facilitating nerve communication between your brain and the rest of your body.

When the C1 or C2 vertebrae become misaligned, it can lead to significant nerve interference. This interference can disrupt the flow of information between the brain and the body, leading to a host of issues, including neck pain, headaches, and migraines. Many people don’t realize that even slight misalignments in this part of the spine can cause intense symptoms. This is because the nerves in the upper cervical region are responsible for controlling many vital functions, including muscle tension, balance, and blood flow to the brain. When these nerves are compressed or irritated, it can trigger severe headaches or migraine episodes, and can even contribute to problems like dizziness or vertigo.

Through gentle chiropractic adjustments, I work to realign the C1 and C2 vertebrae, allowing the spine to return to its natural alignment. This not only reduces nerve pressure but also helps to restore blood flow to the brain, which is a critical component in relieving migraines. Many patients experience immediate relief after upper cervical adjustments, while others notice a gradual reduction in the frequency and intensity of their migraines as the body heals and adapts to its realigned state.

Unlike more aggressive forms of treatment—such as medications or surgery—upper cervical adjustments are non-invasive and safe, making them an ideal solution for long-term care. By correcting spinal misalignments, we can help the body function optimally, reducing the need for pain medications and preventing future episodes of neck pain and migraines. For those with chronic migraine conditions, addressing the upper cervical spine is often a game-changer in managing symptoms naturally.

2. Jaw and Rib Adjustments: Uncovering Hidden Sources of Tension

In addition to focusing on the upper cervical spine, it’s important to recognize that other areas of the body may contribute to migraines and neck pain. Two areas that often play a significant role, but are frequently overlooked, are the jaw (specifically the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) and the ribs.

Jaw (TMJ) Alignment and Migraines

The jaw can be a hidden trigger for both migraines and neck pain, especially for individuals who suffer from TMJ dysfunction. Many people don’t realize the connection between their jaw alignment and their headaches. The TMJ is located just in front of your ears, and it’s the joint that allows your jaw to move when you talk, chew, or yawn. When this joint becomes misaligned—often due to teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or stress—it can put significant pressure on the surrounding muscles and nerves. This tension can easily radiate into the neck and head, leading to chronic headaches, migraines, or facial pain.

In my practice, I regularly evaluate the alignment and function of the jaw, particularly for patients who experience both migraines and TMJ issues. By performing specific jaw adjustments and guiding patients on how to reduce tension in their jaw through posture changes and jaw exercises, we can often alleviate migraine triggers that stem from TMJ dysfunction. In combination with spinal adjustments, jaw alignment helps to reduce strain on the nerves and muscles connected to the head and neck.

Rib Alignment and Posture

Another important area I assess is the rib alignment—particularly the upper ribs, which play a crucial role in your overall posture and respiratory function. When the ribs are out of alignment, they can create muscular tension in the shoulders and upper back, which often contributes to neck pain and increases the likelihood of tension headaches or migraines. Poor posture, particularly when sitting for long periods, can cause the ribs to move out of their natural alignment. This is especially common for people who work at a desk, frequently look down at their phone, or have poor ergonomics at work.

Rib misalignment often goes hand-in-hand with spinal misalignment, and I frequently find that correcting both areas provides greater relief for my patients. By incorporating rib adjustments into a treatment plan, we can help restore proper posture, improve breathing patterns, and reduce the strain on the spine and neck. These adjustments can lead to significant improvements in overall mobility, while also addressing the muscle tension that contributes to chronic migraines and neck pain.

3. Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailoring Care to Your Unique Needs

At Spinal Couture, I firmly believe that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to chiropractic care. Every patient is different, and that’s why I take the time to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and health goals. Whether you’re dealing with musculoskeletal issues, hormonal migraines, or a combination of both, my approach is designed to help you find relief and long-term improvement. Depending on what you are suffering from, I will create a treatment plan tailored JUST for you.

Musculoskeletal Migraines

For patients with musculoskeletal migraines, which are caused by muscle tension, spinal misalignment, or nerve irritation, chiropractic care is especially effective. These migraines often stem from problems in the upper cervical spine, shoulders, or jaw, where tension builds and triggers headaches. By identifying and correcting these misalignments through chiropractic adjustments, I help patients reduce both the frequency and intensity of their migraines. Additionally, I provide patients with guidance on posture, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments to further prevent the recurrence of pain.

Hormonal Migraines

Hormonal migraines present a unique challenge, as they are often linked to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. While chiropractic care may not completely eliminate hormonal migraines, I’ve seen many patients experience significant relief with regular adjustments. By reducing nerve irritation and improving overall spinal alignment, chiropractic care can make the nervous system more resilient to the changes caused by hormone fluctuations.

For example, during menopause, many women experience an increase in migraine frequency due to the body’s changing hormonal balance. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with a healthy lifestyle and stress management techniques, can help reduce the severity and frequency of these migraines and provide a natural alternative to medications. Additionally, for women who experience migraines tied to their menstrual cycle, chiropractic care can help regulate nerve function and blood flow, leading to fewer and less intense migraines over time. Dr. Rollins did her graduate research on migraines and is passionate about helping people achieve relief from this debilitating condition.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

In addition to addressing the immediate symptoms, I work closely with my patients to provide ongoing support and monitor their progress. Regular chiropractic care not only helps with acute episodes of migraines and neck pain but also serves as a preventative measure, keeping the spine and nervous system in optimal condition. As part of our comprehensive care, I provide my patients with stretching routines, ergonomic advice, and lifestyle tips to help them maintain their health between appointments.

Why Spinal Couture Is Your Third Place for Wellness

At Spinal Couture, I believe that healing happens when you take time to focus on yourself in a space that feels supportive and nurturing. That’s why we’ve designed our practice to be more than just a chiropractic office in South Plainfield, New Jersey—it’s your third place. With our gym, you’ll have the tools to strengthen your body and improve mobility, while our relaxation room offers a serene space to unwind and de-stress. We provide everything you need to heal in body and mind.

If you’re in South Plainfield or Central Jersey, I’d love to help you find relief from your migraines and neck pain. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward feeling better. At Spinal Couture, we’ll work together to uncover the root of your pain, so you can reclaim your life and start living without discomfort.