I've lived with migraines for over 28 years, stemming from a severe accident. The pain was debilitating, often leading to loss of consciousness. But since December, everything changed. Could custom orthotic insoles be the solution to migraines?
For those unfamiliar with migraines or who think they're merely headaches, here's a brief insight. Living with migraines profoundly impacts daily life, especially in a family with children. It's not just head pain—it's an overwhelming assault causing nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and utter exhaustion.
Mild episodes might allow you to stay somewhat functional for your kids, sometimes manageable with medication. But once it escalates, it's relentless: vomiting bile, explosive head pain, dizziness upon standing or lying down. Far from a simple headache. For more, explore migraine realities.
Last year, chronic knee pain—complete with a concerning lump—drove me to a physiotherapist. My shoulders and neck were perpetually tense and painful, often triggering migraines. The cycle was vicious: migraine pain caused more tension, amplifying everything. Skeptical of physio and uncomfortable with vulnerability, I pushed through.
Sessions brought relief—pain eased, mobility improved. Surprisingly, I learned I was hypermobile in my torso, not just stiff as I thought. Exercises, taping, and consistent care helped, even after I strained my neck.
Progress stalled on my knees, though the lump shrank. My physiotherapist suggested seeing a podiatrist.
My knee would lock up, making stairs agonizing—I'd have to wait it out. In consultation with my physiotherapist, I booked a podiatrist in mid-December.
A thorough gait analysis revealed issues beyond my knees: abnormal inward knee rotation under load, stressing joints and radiating pain to hips and feet from years of poor alignment. Custom orthotic insoles were prescribed.
On December 24, amid a brutal three-day migraine, I picked them up. Slipped into my Nikes, I walked—and felt instant relief. Thick on the inside, they felt odd, but the migraine vanished within an hour. Nausea gone, function restored—unbelievable after 28 years.
Advised to wear them two hours daily at first, I never removed them. The next day, my shoulders and neck felt supple, pain-free—shoulders soft for the first time in memory. Migraines stayed away; I could even eat freely without triggers.
They're no magic fix—I still get occasional hormone-related migraines. But the tension-triggered ones? Gone. My neck and shoulders remain flexible.
Tip: If neck/shoulder tension fuels your migraines, get your gait checked by a podiatrist. Consultations run about €100, but it could transform your life.
PS: No Nike sponsorship—this is my genuine experience. They're the only shoes fitting my insoles well (I have a spare pair). Hunting affordable summer options; custom shoes would cost €200+. That's why you see Nikes on my YouTube.
