Alternative Treatments for Headache Pain

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The goal of nonpharmacological treatments is to relieve or reduce headache symptoms without the use of drugs. A variety of self-care and alternative treatments may be useful for treating or preventing migraine attacks. These are some of the self-care methods that are used to decrease acute migraine pain:

• applying cold compresses to forehead
• sitting or lying down-inactivity
• avoiding sensory input (light, noise, or odors)
• sleeping

In addition, the following activities have been proved effective for treating and preventing migraines:

• practicing biofeedback (a training program that helps a person to control body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and pain sensations)
• practicing relaxation techniques (progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and breathing exercises)