Most recent migraines.
Somehow or another, I managed to get migraines 2 out of the last 3 weeks after hockey. I've been stretching regularly, seeing the chiropractor and massage therapist at least once a month. It is frustrating considering the months past I've had no migraines. I haven't changed my diet or exercise habits recently, however, work has been significantly more stressful; working over-nights, increased workload and responsibilities etc.
The first migraine I just dealt with; no meds, no ice, no massage, I just waited it out. The second mirgraine, I tried the same approach as the first, except I massaged and stretched my neck myself. I massaged my neck by folding my hands behind my neck (like I was praying) and used my thumbs to massage both sides of my neck. This significantly helped with the pain. At some point it felt as if the pain went away. Unfortunately I could only massage my own neck for so long. Regardless, the amount of time I was able to spend massaging significantly reduced the overall pain I was feeling.
It seems I keep my stress in my neck and stretching might not cut it for preventing these migraines. Moving forward, I'm going to try and add the self-neck massage into my normal routine to see how that helps.
May 11th, 2010 - 12:44
Hi,
I have been getting migraines, with similar symptoms to yours, on and off for about 8 years. Luckily, I only get them once or twice a year. I found your blog interesting because we have the same trigger. Mine almost always come on about 30 min to 1 hour after playing hockey. In fact, I have only had 2 migraines ever, that didn’t occur after a hockey game. I find that if I can keep up a regular cardio workout routine, they don’t show up. However, when I let this slip is when they tend to come back.
My doctor perscribed me Maxalt, which is supposed to constrict the dilated vessels in your head that are thought to be the cause of the auras and pain. However, I have not tried them yet (like you, I prefer to take as few meds as possible). They are only to be take at the onset of symptoms and are not for prevention.
Well, since I just had an episode this week, it will be back to the bike/treadmill for me.
Thanks for sharing your experiences.
B
May 11th, 2010 - 14:18
Hi B,
I have been migraine free for a few months now. It seems that I keep much of my stress in my neck. Since I’ve been stretching everyday, I haven’t had any problems; even after games where I skate without a break. Thanks for sharing!