Migraine and headache care in Santa Monica.

Stress and tension

Stress is one of the most commonly reported migraine triggers — and so is the “let-down” period right after a stressful stretch ends.

Physical tension plays a role too: tight muscles in the neck and shoulders, often from posture and long hours at a desk, can contribute to headaches that build from the base of the skull.

Diet and hydration

Certain foods and drinks are frequent culprits, though they vary from person to person. Common ones include aged cheeses, processed meats, alcohol (especially red wine), caffeine (too much or sudden withdrawal), and skipped meals. Dehydration alone can bring on a migraine for many people.

Smells, light and sound

Strong smells — perfume, smoke, cleaning products — can trigger migraines in sensitive individuals. So can bright or flickering lights and loud noise. During an attack, these same inputs often become far harder to tolerate.

Weather and environment

Shifts in barometric pressure, big temperature swings, and changes in humidity are well-known triggers. You cannot control the weather, but knowing you are sensitive to it helps you prepare and manage other triggers during those times.

Keeping a trigger journal

• Note when each migraine starts and how long it lasts
• Record what you ate, your stress level, and your sleep
• Track the weather and any strong sensory exposures
• Look for patterns over a few weeks

Treating the cause, not just the pain

Medication can mask a migraine, but it does not address why they keep happening. Our approach looks at contributing factors like neck alignment, muscle tension, posture, and lifestyle.

Combining chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, and practical guidance on your triggers can help many people experience fewer and milder migraines over time.