Migraines are a neurological condition known for pounding head pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder with cramping, bloating, and gassiness as some of its main symptoms. So, are these two conditions really connected?
A recent study done at Istanbul University in Turkey observed those who were diagnosed with migraines, tension headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome. The results showed that those with migraines were twice as likely to have IBS (54%) than those who had tension headaches (28%). Out of the 107 suffering from IBS in the study, 38 had migraines and 24 had tension headaches. This shows a definite connection, but why?
Understanding the Link Between Migraines and IBS
Upper cervical chiropractors see a lot of patients who suffer from both of these conditions and sometimes other serious health issues. We understand how these conditions are related to a malfunction of the central nervous system. The body relies on the brainstem to send proper signals to the brain about what is happening. With both migraines and IBS, the proper signals are not being sent about blood flow regulation, cerebrospinal fluid flow, and muscle tension. This is can be related to a misalignment of the bones of the upper cervical spine.
The atlas or C1 vertebra is the top bone of the spine and is susceptible to misaligning. If this occurs, pressure is put on the brainstem. The brainstem is the communication highway of the body, and if it is not working correctly, all kinds of problems can occur. Therefore, by correcting the misalignment, health problems such as migraines and IBS often clear up.
We use a method that is both gentle and precise to focus on the misalignment and encourage the bones to move back into place. This is accomplished without popping or cracking the spine. After having an adjustment to this bone, many of our patients report seeing positive results in both migraines and irritable bowel syndrome.
