SNAG's For Migraine Relief
Headaches, a common ailment that affects many of us, can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, significantly impacting our daily lives. While medication is a go-to remedy for many, there's a growing interest in alternative and complementary approaches for headache relief. Among these, SNAG exercises (Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides) have emerged as an effective method for alleviating headaches, particularly those stemming from neck issues or tension. This blog explores SNAG exercises and how they can be integrated into your routine for headache relief.
Understanding SNAG Exercises
SNAG exercises are a form of manual therapy developed by Brian Mulligan, aimed at improving movement and reducing pain in the spine and other joints. The term 'SNAG' stands for Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides, which essentially means applying a gentle and sustained glide to spinal joints to improve mobility and decrease discomfort. These exercises are particularly effective for cervicogenic headaches, which originate from disorders of the neck, often caused by prolonged poor posture, neck tension, or past neck injuries.
How SNAG Exercises Work
SNAG exercises involve applying a gentle glide or movement to a specific part of the neck or spine while performing certain head or neck movements. This combination of manual glide and movement helps to realign joints, reduce pressure on nerves, and improve blood flow to the affected areas, thereby relieving pain and improving mobility.
SNAG Exercises for Headache Relief
Click the link below on how to do SNAG exercises
Precautions and Tips
Always perform these exercises gently and within a comfortable range of motion.
If you experience any pain or discomfort during the exercises, stop immediately and consult with a healthcare professional.
For best results, combine SNAG exercises with other headache relief strategies, such as maintaining good posture, taking regular breaks from screens, staying hydrated, and managing stress.
Conclusion
SNAG exercises offer a promising, non-pharmacological approach to managing headaches, particularly for those related to neck tension or issues. Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can help alleviate headache symptoms, improve neck mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or are experiencing severe headaches.
Headaches don't have to be a constant disruptor of your daily activities. By understanding and
applying effective strategies like SNAG exercises, you can take proactive steps towards
managing your symptoms and improving your well-being.
Dr Mark has a special interest in helping recreational athletes of all ages perform better and prevent injury. Correct breathing and postural alignment are critical for top performance and injury prevention and is an integral part of “The Over 40 Athlete System” that Mark has developed.
Dr Julie has a special interest in helping mothers and “mothers to be”. Her Post Graduate qualifications in Paediatric Chiropractic and as an ex-midwife give her a unique ability to help pregnant women, new mums and their young children.
Yours in Health,
Dr's Mark & Julie
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