Migraine resolution in a patient receiving Cox(®) flexion-distraction and thoracolumbar spinal manipulative therapy: a case report

OBJECTIVE: This case report describes the use of flexiondistraction as a chiropractic treatment for a 46-year-old woman experiencing acute-onset migraine headaches. CLINICAL FEATURES: A 46-year-old woman with acute-onset migraine headaches sought an evaluation at our chiropractic clinic. She reported experiencing 10 headaches per month for the past two months. Prior to visiting our clinic, she consulted several doctors and tried several medications for relief of her migraine headaches. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: A trial of conservative care using flexion-distraction was applied to the cervical spine as a primary intervention for managing her acute migraine headaches, along with the application of thoracolumbar spinal manipulation. After 13 sessions over six weeks, the patient reported less pain, a notable decrease in the frequency in her migraine occurrences and in her use of pain medication, increased sleep, and an improved mood. SUMMARY: The flexion-distraction chiropractic approach effectively managed acute migraine headaches in a middle-aged woman.