Great news for fitness fans and migraine sufferers alike. Research from the University of Gothenburg shows that regular exercise is just as effective as medication in preventing migraines.
In the study, 92 participants with recurring migraines were divided into three groups, each receiving a treatment aimed at reducing attacks. One group exercised three times a week for 40 minutes under physiotherapist supervision, another performed relaxation exercises, and the third took the drug topiramate.
About topiramate:
Topiramate is primarily prescribed to control epileptic seizures by modulating stimuli in the brain. Neurologists often prescribe it as a migraine preventive medication too. Like many drugs, it doesn't suit everyone and can cause side effects.
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Key finding: All three groups experienced a significant drop in migraine attacks, with no difference in effectiveness among the treatments. Exercise offers a compelling, side-effect-free alternative.
