Migraines in Children: More Common Than Many Realize
Many people think migraines are an adult problem, but children can suffer from migraines as well. In fact, research shows that 20% of adults say their headaches began before the age of 10, while 50% report their headaches started before age 20.
Headaches are surprisingly common in young people. One study found that 56% of boys and 74% of girls between the ages of 12 and 17 experienced a headache within the past month.
Before puberty, boys tend to experience headaches more frequently than girls. After puberty, however, migraines become more common in girls, likely due to hormonal changes.
Genetics and Migraines
Migraines often run in families. If one parent suffers from migraines, their child has about a 40% chance of developing them as well. If both parents experience migraines, the likelihood can increase to as high as 90%.
While genetics may play a role, it does not necessarily mean migraines are unavoidable. Understanding possible triggers and underlying causes can help families find solutions.
Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Migraines
Children sometimes struggle to explain exactly how they feel, which can make migraines difficult for parents to recognize. However, there are several symptoms parents can watch for.
Possible signs of migraines in children include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Throbbing or pounding head pain
- Relief after sleeping
- Pain in a specific area of the head
- Visual disturbances or aura before the headache begins
Unlike some other types of headaches, migraines in children often improve after sleep, and the pain typically does not wake them from sleep.
A Natural Approach Parents Are Exploring
Many parents are understandably cautious about giving their children strong prescription medications for migraine relief whenever possible. Because of this, some families look for safe, natural approaches that address the underlying cause of the problem.
One area that has gained attention is upper cervical chiropractic care.
The Role of the Upper Cervical Spine
The upper cervical spine, specifically the C1 (atlas) and C2 (axis) vertebrae, sits at the top of the neck directly beneath the skull. This area surrounds the brainstem, which helps control communication between the brain and the rest of the body.
If the atlas vertebra becomes misaligned, it can place stress on the nervous system and interfere with the body’s ability to regulate functions such as:
- Blood flow to the brain
- Nerve communication
- Balance and coordination
- Pain processing
When the nervous system is under stress, it may contribute to conditions such as chronic headaches or migraines.
In children, misalignments can occur from many everyday events, including:
- Birth trauma
- Falls while learning to walk
- Sports or playground activities
- Roughhousing or minor injuries
Even small misalignments may affect how the brain and body communicate.
How NUCCA Care May Help
At Advanced Spinal Care in Graham, Washington, we use a specialized technique known as NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) to evaluate and correct misalignments in the upper cervical spine.
NUCCA care is different from traditional chiropractic adjustments. It focuses specifically on the precise alignment of the atlas vertebra using a gentle, controlled correction.
NUCCA adjustments are:
- Extremely gentle
- Precise and scientific
- Non-invasive
- Drug-free
There is no twisting or popping of the neck. Instead, a small and specific correction is made to help the bones return to their proper position.
When alignment is restored, stress on the nervous system may be reduced, allowing the body to function more normally.
Many of our patients—both adults and children—have experienced:
- Reduced migraine frequency
- Less severe headache episodes
- Improved overall neurological function
Some patients even report that their migraines disappear entirely after proper correction and stabilization of the upper cervical spine.
Helping Children Find Relief
Migraines can interfere with a child’s ability to focus in school, participate in activities, and enjoy daily life. Because every child is different, finding the right approach can take time.
If your child suffers from migraines, a NUCCA evaluation may help determine whether an upper cervical misalignment could be contributing to the problem.
To schedule your NUCCA evaluation, click the button below.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/