By Dr. Mary Lambert, AP, DOM
Migraines are more than just headaches—they’re a debilitating neurological condition that affects over 1 billion people worldwide. Characterized by throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound, migraines can drastically affect a person’s quality of life. While traditional treatments such as medications and lifestyle adjustments are commonly used, people are exploring alternative therapies to manage the condition. Two popular therapies are Craniosacral Therapy (CST) and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), both of which are specialized modalities that focus on the body’s fluid systems and nervous system.
Migraines are complex and not fully understood, but research has identified several contributing factors. Migraines are believed to be influenced by both genetics and environmental factors, with changes in brain chemistry playing a central role. Recent studies also indicate that the lymphatic system plays a role in migraines. The brain’s lymphatic system, which removes waste and fluid from the central nervous system, may become impaired during a migraine, contributing to the buildup of inflammatory substances. This is where therapies like CST and MLD come into play, as they target both the cerebrospinal and the lymphatic systems to support fluid drainage and reduce inflammation.
Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive technique developed by osteopath Dr. John Upledger in the 1970s. It focuses on manipulating the craniosacral system, which consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST practitioners, like Jenn Lambert of Lambert Wellness, use light touch to release restrictions in these tissues, thereby improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and promoting the body’s natural healing processes.
Research on CST has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing migraine symptoms. In a study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain in 2011, researchers evaluated the impact of CST on 20 individuals suffering from chronic migraines. The participants received 10 treatments over a five-week period. At the end of the study, participants reported a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their migraines, along with improved overall quality of life.
Another study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2016 found similar results. This randomized controlled trial involved 25 participants with migraines who underwent CST treatments for eight weeks. The researchers found that CST led to a decrease in both the duration and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, patients reported reduced reliance on medication.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is another gentle technique that focuses on improving the flow of lymphatic fluid, which plays a key role in the body’s immune and detoxification processes. MLD was developed by Dr. Emil Vodder in the 1930s as a way to reduce fluid buildup in the body, commonly used for conditions like lymphedema and post-surgical recovery.
However, recent research suggests that MLD may also help manage migraines by facilitating the removal of toxins and inflammatory substances from the brain and body, which are often associated with migraine attacks. The lymphatic system helps clear waste products, but impaired lymphatic drainage can lead to inflammation, worsening migraine symptoms.
A study published in the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine in 2014 explored the effects of MLD on migraine patients. Over a four-week period, 20 individuals with migraines received regular MLD sessions. The study found that MLD significantly reduced the frequency of migraines, as well as the severity of headache pain and associated symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity.
Further research published in Lymphatic Research and Biology in 2020 highlighted the potential for MLD in treating neurological conditions, including migraines. This study emphasized how MLD supports the brain’s glymphatic system (a specialized waste-clearing network) and enhances cerebrospinal fluid drainage. By improving the efficiency of this system, MLD helps reduce the buildup of substances that trigger migraine attacks.
While both Craniosacral Therapy and Manual Lymphatic Drainage have been shown to provide migraine relief independently, at Lambert Wellness we combine the two treatments for greater efficacy. The combination of CST and MLD can improve fluid flow throughout both the craniosacral and lymphatic systems, promoting better waste removal, reducing inflammation, and easing tension in the muscles and tissues surrounding the brain. These therapies are particularly beneficial because they are gentle, non-invasive, and suitable for most individuals, including those seeking alternatives to medication.
Migraines are a complex and often debilitating condition, but therapies like Craniosacral Therapy and Manual Lymphatic Drainage offer promising alternatives for relief. With growing research highlighting the role of the lymphatic and craniosacral systems in migraines, these gentle, hands-on techniques may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. If you suffer from migraines and are looking for natural, effective treatments, consider exploring CST and MLD as part of your holistic health plan. With more than 20 years of experience in manual therapies, Jenn Lambert specializes in the advanced techniques of Manual Lymph Drainage and Craniosacral Therapy. She is here to support your migraine management. Book a session today by calling us at 239-776-4055 and experience the benefits for yourself. MA43338 MM40606
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