Head injuries can have long-lasting and often unexpected consequences. Jefferson’s experience with migraines following a soccer injury is a compelling testament to this reality. Jefferson is a patient at Novera who has found relief from migraines through treatment. Here’s his story of how a head trauma during a soccer game led to a long struggle with exercise-induced migraines and how he eventually found relief.
The Incident
Jefferson’s ordeal began during an indoor soccer game. In the fast-paced environment, a powerful shot from the biggest player on the opposing team struck Jefferson’s head. Though it didn’t seem catastrophic at the time—he even finished the game—the impact was severe enough to cause him to see stars and feel disoriented. Concerned about potential internal injuries, he visited the emergency room where initial scans showed no immediate danger.
Onset of Migraines
Despite the lack of immediate issues, Jefferson began to suffer from migraines shortly after any form of physical exertion. These migraines were more than just headaches; they were debilitating episodes that would leave him in bed, lights off, struggling to function. This dramatically affected his quality of life, turning activities he loved, such as running, cycling, and playing soccer, into sources of anxiety and discomfort.
Searching for Solutions
Jefferson’s journey to find relief was arduous. He tried various over-the-counter medications and even prescribed drugs from his primary care physician, but these only addressed the symptoms rather than the root cause. His search for solutions was further complicated by conflicting information on the internet, particularly about remedies like caffeine intake.
The turning point came when Jefferson discovered a podcast by Novera: Headache Center. The episode on exercise-induced headaches resonated with him deeply, providing the much-needed assurance that he was not alone in his struggle. Motivated by the podcast, Jefferson scheduled a Discovery Visit with Novera, where he met with Dr. Gutwein.
Finding the Root Cause
During his initial visit, Jefferson found that the team at Novera genuinely understood his condition. They listened to his detailed description of symptoms—sharp pains starting at the back of his head and moving to lodge behind his right eye—and identified a possible connection to his neck and shoulders, areas that had become stiff and problematic since his injury.
Novera’s approach was holistic and focused on the root cause of Jefferson’s migraines. They proposed a structured treatment plan involving physical therapy aimed at addressing the neck and shoulder stiffness contributing to his migraines. Jefferson committed to an intensive initial phase, attending multiple sessions per week.
Remarkable Results
The results were swift and significant. Within a few sessions, Jefferson began to notice relief. The migraines reduced in frequency and severity, allowing him to participate in long endurance events like hundred-mile bike rides and 24-hour cycling challenges without the fear of debilitating migraines. This transformation not only alleviated his symptoms but also restored his confidence and quality of life.
Jefferson’s story underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of medical conditions rather than just managing symptoms. His experience also highlights the value of persistence and the courage to seek out specialized care. For those suffering from similar conditions, Jefferson’s journey is a powerful reminder that effective treatment and relief are possible.
To hear Jefferson share his story on The Headache Doctor podcast, click here.
