Migraine Beyond Medication: A Multi-Systems Approach

Episode Title: Migraine Beyond Medication: A Multi-Systems ApproachEpisode Description:Migraine is not just a headache — it’s a complex neurologic condition involving the nervous system, sensory processing, and multiple body systems.In this episode of What’s in Your Head: Tools for Pain & Dizziness, Dr. Pete Schultz, physical therapist, goes beyond medication and explores where conservative, non-pharmacologic strategies fit into modern migraine care.Medications can be helpful for many people, but a significant number of individuals continue to struggle with persistent symptoms, frequent attacks, and disability. This episode focuses on the additional contributors that influence migraine outcomes and why a multi-systems approach is often necessary.This discussion is grounded in both clinical experience and current evidence, including a peer-reviewed article co-authored with colleague Scott Siverling that outlines a multimodal, conservative framework for treating migraine from a physical therapist’s perspective.In this episode, Pete discusses:Migraine as a neurologic nervous system conditionWhy medication alone may not fully address migraine driversThe role of the autonomic nervous system and stress physiologyHow exercise, manual therapy, vestibular therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based strategies fit into careWhy this approach is complementary to — not against — medicationThis episode is designed to help patients and clinicians better understand migraine and expand the toolbox for managing symptoms and improving quality of life.For more information on migraine, pain, dizziness, and nervous system health, visit www.PainAndDizzy.com.To schedule a physical therapy evaluation for headache, migraine, concussion, dizziness, or persistent pain, visit www.DynamicSportsPT.com.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment decisions.Reference: Siverling S, Schultz P. A Multimodal Conservative Approach to Treating Migraine: A Physical Therapist’s Perspective. Current Pain and Headache Reports. 2023;27:329–337. doi:10.1007/s11916-023-01140-3