Alpha Stim and Alexander Technique

Just found this forum and thought I'd post to pass on some info that may be of use to people.
I've suffered from chronic migraine for 20 years and have tried many different medicines (both painkillers and preventative medicines) and therapies.

The two things I've found the most helpful are the Alexander Technique and Alpha Stim.

The Alexander Technique is a method of becoming more self-aware regarding patterns of muscle tension and posture that may have been held onto unconsciously for many years (often since childhood). Once aware of the patterns you are taught how to release these tensions and thereby move more efficiently and freely. Alexander Technique is not a therapy but often has therapeutic effects and can benefit people suffering from migraine and headache. It is well established (developed in the early 20th century) and recognized by the medical profession.

You can find a qualified Alexander Technique teacher through the Society for Teachers of the Alexander Technique (It's very important to find a properly qualified teacher: look for MSTAT after the name) I have been using the Alexander Technique since 1999 and I don't know what I would have done without it.

Alpha Stim is a small portable device that was developed by a doctor in the USA and has been in use there for 30 years or so. It applies a gentle electrical signal to the head and /or body and treatment is pain-free. It can be used to treat (among other conditions) chronic pain (including headache and migraine) and in addition treats the anxiety, stress and insomnia that often accompany long-term illnesses. It was introduced to the UK about 2 years ago. The technology is also backed by a wealth of clinical research. (The device is similar in appearance, but works very differently from a TENS machine)

I purchased an Alpha Stim machine 13 months ago and have found it to be consistently very helpful in managing my symptoms.

Both the Alexander Technique and Alpha Stim can be used in parallel with conventional treatments and both have no side effects.

I'm not suggesting either of these measures will work for everyone, but in 20 years of research and experimentation these have been the most helpful to me. If you have any questions please feel free to ask.

Hope this is of help

Thanks

Mike