MIGRAINE
REHABILITATION PROGRAM
PRECISION
Migraines are due to vascular-metabolic uncoupling, this means the energy demands of the brain are not being met by the cardiovascular system.
The brain responds with vasoconstriction (squeezing) all the blood vessels that supply the brain, this results in a migraine and its neurologic symptoms.
Due to the neurologic origin of migraines, we treat them identically to concussions - and with great success. We offer testing and treatment in the following domains:
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Blood Brain Barrier Integrity
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Autonomic Nervous System Stability
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Sensorimotor Integration
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Auditory Integration
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Visuospatial Integration
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Vestibulo-ocular Reflexes
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Vestibulospinal Reflexes
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Cognitive Processing
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Brain-Gut Axis Evaluation
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Endurance Capabilities
Amelie - Now migraine free after being unable to attend work or school due to daily migraines for 8 months
THERAPY & EVALUATION TOOLS
Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a form of non-invasive light therapy using red and/ or near-infrared light. PBM has extensive research showing its effectiveness for reducing inflammation, immunomodulation, tissue repair and increased production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).
Oculomotor Evaluation
Evaluating the oculomotor system is critical to proper diagnosis and aids effective treatment. We perform multiple recorded oculomotor testing sessions on our patients to ensure consistent progress. A practical example of evaluation would consist of performing specific eye movements while the eyes are being recorded with infrared cameras, similar to a VNG/ VOG.
Repetitive Peripheral Somatosensory Stimulus
Repetitive Peripheral Somatosensory Stimulus (RPSS) is a non-invasive treatment modality that involves the application of a mild electrical impulse to the skin. RPSS has a wide array of uses, in our rehabilitation program it is commonly used to directly treat conditions such as vertigo or migraines/ headaches.
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (TVNS) involves application of mild electrical impulse to the outer ear in order to stimulate the Vagus nerve. TVNS has been shown to successfully treat conditions such as cluster headaches, migraines, epilepsy, trigeminal pain, mTBI, irritable bowel disease and many others.
Vision Therapy
Vision Therapy is a commonly used method to improve the precision of ocular movements. Practical examples of dysfunctional eye movements can appear as double and/or blurry vision, difficulty concentrating, difficulty reading, eye strain and headaches.
Focus Builder
The Focus Builder App was created by a team of Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologists, dedicated to providing doctors with the latest brain rehabilitative techniques. Click here for more information.
Motion Guidance
Motion Guidance is a visual bio-feedback tool where a laser is mounted on a patient's body to encourage perfect sensorimotor integration. Click here for more information.
Oxygen Saturation
Oxygen Saturation is a reliable and recognized method used to evaluate the autonomic nervous system. It is performed through a fingertip monitor emitting an infrared light.
Neuro-muscular Electric Stimulation (NMES)
NMES is a modality used in identifying the neurologic origin of all physiologic symptoms rather than the symptoms alone
Ear Insufflation
Ear Insufflation is a modern procedure involving gently puffing air into the ear canal. The purpose of this technique is to affect the Trigeminal nerve (CN V). As it plays a crucial role in facial/ scalp sensation and proper jaw function.
GUIDANCE
There are a number of variables that determine the induction of plasticity, the most commonly neglected variables of stimulation are specificity, repetition and intensity. The Ottawa Performance Care Migraine Program is specifically designed with these variables in mind.
Ottawa Performance Care doctors take pride in both, their abilities to properly evaluate and effectively diagnose conditions, this component of treatment is often overlooked/ neglected. The variables of repetition and intensity can only be addressed when a thorough examination and proper diagnosis have been made.
Once we have the necessary information we can create an appropriate treatment strategy designed specifically for your case with the variables of specificity, repetition and intensity in mind.