Cluster Headaches

[Wahine]

Aw, Dogmama, hope you feel better soon!

May I suggest an osteopath trained in Sutherland's techniques? http://cranialacademy.org/search.html?Submit=Accept They realign the skeletal structure using gentle technique that's nothing like chiropractic. Unlike an orthopedic surgeon (or neurosurgeon, whichever one commonly works on spines in your area), they don't see the knife as the first or even the second line of treatment, but unlike a chiropractor, they're familiar with surgery and won't be shy about a surgical referral if that's what you really need.

Finding a Board-certified neuromusculoskeletal practitioner was what put me on the road to recovering from my injuries, and it was totally worth the long drive to the nearest one. I hope there's someone nearer you than to me.

This is a great suggestion. I don't often think of Osteopaths because we don't have many of them in Canada where I was trained and started my career. PTs where I'm from use a lot of osteopathic methods and are very well trained in manual therapy. Not so much here in the US.

[Dogmama]

I do believe in osteopathic manipulation and am totally for anything that doesn't involve medications. I'm seeing a neurologist for my headaches tomorrow so hopefully can get some answers there. I'm seeing my spine doc in two weeks for my lower back/hip issues. I'll mention manipulation to him. I'm a tad wary because before I had my cervical fusion I went to a chiropractor who made it MUCH worse. My spine doc says I have a lot of nerve involvement, bone spurs, etc., and if a manipulation results in aggravating a nerve, I'm in trouble.

All that said - it sounds like an osteopath who is highly trained would be a good investment. I used to have adjustments a lot as a kid (headaches) and they were wonderful.

On the up side - I've had 24 headache-free hours. WHOO HOOO!!! This is after my 15 marathon cluster headache sunday/monday.

[Wahine]

I'm seeing my spine doc in two weeks for my lower back/hip issues. I'll mention manipulation to him
On the up side - I've had 24 headache-free hours. WHOO HOOO!!! This is after my 15 marathon cluster headache sunday/monday.

Do discuss it with your doc, but don't call it manipulation. Some doctors will automatically interpret that phrase as a chiro style manipulation that involves more force and carries higher risk, including serious potential side effects in the neck. It can be a strong knee jerk reaction to the word manipulation and no matter what you say after that, you won't be able to have a meaningful conversation about it. Instead I would call it manual therapy with an Osteopath.