FAQ: Will Inversion Help with Headaches or Migraines?

While we have had many customers tell us that inverting has decreased the frequency of their occasional headaches or migraines, we are unaware of any studies that have been conducted to determine if there is any correlation. However, here are some interesting points worth noting:

• Some research has shown that migraines are caused by (or result in the symptom of) a lack of oxygen to the brain.
• Inversion provides an oxygen wash to your brain. Reversing your position in gravity allows for increased blood flow (and the red blood cells that transport oxygen) to the brain.

According to MedicineNet, migraine headache results from a decrease in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). In simple terms, migraines are vascular and have to do with the vessels that supply blood to your brain. Although the brain itself is unable to feel pain, the blood vessels within its core are highly pain-sensitive. […] Neurons in the brain are very sensitive to changes in oxygen. Because red blood cells carry oxygen to the brain cells, any reduction in blood flow to the brain will result in dysfunction of the nerve cells in that region.

Migraines can actually leave the brain starved for oxygen, causing pain and possible damage. While there has yet only been anecdotal evidence to suggest that inversion helps with migraines, there are signs that point to its ability to help increase oxygen flow to the brain.

We suggest that you not invert if you are in the process of experiencing a migraine, as it could potentially worsen your symptoms. We always suggest that you contact your primary care physician if you have any specific concerns.