Exercise just as good as drugs at preventing migraines

October 11, 2011

Science Daily/University of Gothenburg

Although exercise is often prescribed as a treatment for migraine, there has not previously been sufficient scientific evidence that it really works. However, research from Sweden has now shown that exercise is just as good as drugs at preventing migraines.

The results show that the number of migraines fell in all three groups. Interestingly, there was no difference in the preventative effect between the three treatments.

"Our conclusion is that exercise can act as an alternative to relaxations and topiramate when it comes to preventing migraines, and is particularly appropriate for patients who are unwilling or unable to take preventative medicines," says Emma Varkey, the physiotherapist and doctoral student at the Sahlgrenska Academy who carried out the study.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111010075500.htm