Migraine is a debilitating condition that affects ten per cent of people in the UK.

It is not just a headache as it can leave a sufferer unable to function for up to three days. The most common symptoms include headaches, sensitivity to light and noise, nausea and vomiting. Deborah Tucknott finds out about complementary treatments.

Some people see dark or coloured spots and sparkles or zig-zags while others experience weakness, dizziness, vertigo, numbness or tingling.

There are many triggers and each person will experience different combinations as there are different types of migraine.

A doctor or pharmacist can help find a treatment for migraine but complementary therapies and remedies may also help.

Here are some that have shown to give relief. However, consult a qualified and register practitioner if you wish to try any of them.

MigraPulse
Kiti Miranda, a Hove-based therapist, has worked with migraine sufferers for eight years and has seen MigraPulse successfully treat migraines. MigraPulse is a small, battery-operated computer device worn at all times. Its built-in scanner automatically scans the wearer every 75 minutes. If it detects a drop in the brain activity levels, which is associated with migraine, the MigraPulse sends out a signal to lift them to an acceptable level. For details, call Ms Miranda on 01273 739463.

Chiropractic
For migraines associated with muscles and joints at the top of the neck, chiropractic may be of benefit. Specific techniques are used that help loosen movements, relax muscles and increase the blood flow to the head. Steve Longland, a chiropractor at Sundial House Chiropractic Clinic, Queens Road, Brighton, said: "Quite often we get patients coming in where all else has failed. Painkillers may get rid of the pain but they don't sort out the real problem."

Osteopathy
Osteopathy is also able to deal with migraines associated with problems in the neck. Depending on the severity of the problem, a patient may require weeks or months of treatment. Jonathan Hutson, an osteopath at the Arden House Practice, Dyke Road Clinic, Brighton, said: "It can be part of a relaxation treatment or deal with underlying mechanical causes." He said many of his migraine patients benefitted from cranial osteopathy, which is a gentle technique concentrating on the head.

Reflexology
Reflexology works by stimulating points in the foot that affect certain points of the body. When treating migraine a reflexologist may work on areas that relate to the head and brain, the nervous system, which affects stress, the liver points to cleanse and the diaphragm to further relaxation. Reflexologist Anna Kendall, who works at The Holistic Health Centre, Beaconsfield Road, Brighton, said: "If you stimulate one part of the body it has an affect on other parts. We encourage the body's natural healing process."

Acupuncture
Researchers have concluded acupuncture is a successful way of treating migraines and recommended it should be available on the NHS.

A study revealed patients who received a series of acupuncture treatments experienced fewer days suffering headaches than those who received NHS treatment. The theory is not new to Nik Tilling, an acupuncturist at The Drive Clinic, Hove, and The Dragon Acupuncture Clinic in Brighton. He said: "It has been proven that acupuncture is effective, which has also been my experience. Migraine is one of the most common complaints we see in clinics."

Bowen
The Bowen technique is a hands-on therapy that treats the whole body regardless of the disease or condition. Using light pressure with fingers and thumbs, the practitioner makes a rolling movement over muscles, tendons and ligaments to release tension and improve the blood supply. Claire Grey, a mobile therapist who works across Sussex, said: "Three to four treatments a week apart are needed to see long-lasting relief from migraine."

Herbalism
A herbalist will have a consultation with the patient to find out the underlying causes of the migraine. They may then chose to use remedies for the stomach and liver or herbs such as wood betony and skull cap, known to be good for headaches. Herbalist Sarah Furey, who works for The Heeler Centre, Hassocks, and The Cottage Clinic, Lewes, recommends people see a herbalist rather than choose products over the counter.

Websites
Migraine Action Association - www.migraine.org.uk The Migraine Trust - www.migrainetrust.org Brighton Natural Health Centre Online - www.bnhc.co.uk