ANTI-HEADACHE TECHNIQUE #12-A: USING COLD TO KILL A HEADACHE

In 1986, a study on ice pack therapy was made at the Diamond Headache Clinic in Chicago. Ninety patients took part, all of whom suffered from acute headaches, including migraine. Half the group used their regular medication for two headaches, after which they used medication plus a cold pack for their next two headaches. The other half used nothing for the first two headaches, and cold packs for their next two headaches.

The overall conclusion was that, when using cold packs, 52 percent of the patients felt an immediate decrease in pain, while 71 percent of all patients and 80 percent of those with migraine felt that cold packs significantly speeded up relief from headache pain. The study showed that while a cold pack is not a panacea, this old-fashioned remedy can still be tremendously helpful for anyone anxious to avoid the side effects of drugs.

Modem gel packs, sold over the counter in virtually every drug store, have replaced the cumbersome ice bag, and have made cold pack treatment available in seconds. Gel packs reduce scalp temperature more rapidly than ice bags and they never melt. However, a plastic bag filled with crushed or broken ice cubes can be used in a pinch.

Cold pack treatment should be used only after headache pain has actually been experienced. It should not be used in a stage 2.

Most people usually experience pain relief within a few minutes. However, it’s best to keep the gel pack in place for at least half-an-hour, by which time the pain should be thoroughly numbed and artery diameter restored to normal.

Naturally, you should sit or lie down while using the pack. A gel pack or ice bag should not be used for longer than 45 minutes at any one time.

Physical therapies are a form of behavioral medicine with important psychological benefits. Using them forces you to take an active role in your own recovery. In turn, this dispels thoughts of helplessness or depression. And your disappearing headaches confirm that taking control of your life and health really does work.

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