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Did you know that neck stiffness can be a migraine symptom?

April 2, 2024

Experiencing migraines often coincides with the onset of neck stiffness for me.

Initially, I believed the tension in my neck muscles was the culprit behind my migraines, only to discover it's quite the opposite. Migraines are likely the trigger of neck stiffness through altered neurotransmitter release. This is also supported by the fact that neck stiffness and migraines start simultaneously.1,2

In my own journey, I've found that promptly addressing neck stiffness can help alleviate my migraine symptoms. Stress tends to act as a trigger for my migraines. The migraines are often signalled by visual disturbances and tension in my neck. My visual disturbances include blurriness and flashing lights that can be multicoloured. When I can quickly tend to the tightness in my neck and shoulders, I've been able to halt the migraine's progression.

For me, migrane relief comes from:

1) the application of magnesium spray around my neck and shoulders,

2) a short neck and shoulder massage from my husband,

3) deep and intentional breathing and,

4) gentle neck stretches and movement.

I find that these actions help to relax my neck and shoulder muscles; preventing my migraine from progressing further.

Magnesium is absorbed through the skin and there is research that shows magnesium helps to normalise neurotransmitter release in the brain. Some researchers have proposed that the interaction between magnesium and neurotransmitters could provide a treatment for migranes.2, 3 As you may know one of the symptoms of magnesium deficiency is muscle cramps. Interestingly, a large proportion of people that suffer from migraines are deficient in magnesium, so it makes sense that using a magnesium spray could help.

You may be asking yourself, where do you buy magnesium and which is the best to buy? There are multiple magnesium spray products on the market. Downunder Magnesium Spray is one that I have used and has shown good results for me. Another good option is Zechstein Magnesium Oil. I like these two products because they only contain water and the salt - magnesium chloride, nothing else.

Although these treatments may not work for all individuals experiencing migraines, it certainly helps me with mine. I hope my advice and experience also helps you. 

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References

  1. Ozer G. & Benlier M. (2020) Neck pain: is it part of a migraine attack or a trigger before a migraine attack? Acta Neurol Belg 120:289–293
  2. Dolati S., Rikhtegar R., Mehdizadeh A., & Yousefi M. (2020). The Role of Magnesium in Pathophysiology and Migraine Treatment. Biological Trace Element Research. 196:375–383
  3. Remondi Souza A.C., Rodrigues Vasconcelos A., Deo Dias, D & João J. 2023. The Integral Role of Magnesium in Muscle Integrity and Aging: A Comprehensive Review. 120(2):289-293
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