Migriaine: Safe Exercise for Migraine Sufferers

Many of us, who suffer from migraines are not able to, or choose to avoid aerobic exercise because of the fear that physical activity may bring on a serious migraine attack. Researchers at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, say they have developed an exercise program that can improve fitness without aggravating the migraine condition.

"We could see that those who participated in the study were much fitter after the training period, since their ability to absorb oxygen increased considerably," says physiotherapist Emma Varkey, one of the researchers behind the study.

The program involves using an exercise bike under the guidance of a physiotherapist. A low impact ride on a stationary bicycle allows the migraineur to exercise in a way that increases oxygen intake, and burns calories without necessarily initiating a migraine.

Personally, I believe that a slow ride in the park (and maybe memory lane?) maybe just what the doctor ordered. But, if you are light sensitive, a stationary bike would allow you to get the same amount of exercise in a low light environment. Turn on the fan and feel the wind in your hair ;?)

-- Andy

Migraine: It's Give and Take

Volleyball game 2 did not go as well as had wished. Not because we lost, we didn't, but because I am having a very difficult time dealing with the side effects of my new migraine regime. I am taking 150mg of Mexelitine four times a day. This is essentially lidocain in pill form.

When I left the migraine clinic at the Jefferson Hospital in January, the doctor removed my PIK line that had steadily dripped lidocaine into my veins for a week, and put me on mexiletine caplets.

I know it is working because I have been mostly headache free for 16 out the last 45 days!

Most of the headaches I have experienced over the last two and a half months have been less severe. I have had a handful of what I consider gran mal attacks, but have been able to use the DHE shots to lessen the pain.

Now here's the rub. My headaches are getting better. While my fine motor skills are getting worse every day. Especially on my right side, supposedly my strong side. I realized a few days ago that my fine block architectural writing is non-existent. I can hardly sign my name. My right hand has an almost constant tremor. And you may have already guessed what this has meant to my volleyball skills.

We have played two official matches, where I have had the opportunity if not the ability to serve the ball. I have had pride in a very strong jump serve, for many years. Not any more. I have not gotten a single serve over the net. Depressing it is. I have had a few spikes, but not with my usuall vim and vigor. My digs, sets and bumps have not been affected as of yet, but it may be only a matter of time.

There are two positive things that come out of this situation. The first is that I am having fewer migraines. The second is that my youngest daughter (Team Hero with 10 aces) came up to me throughout the game and even after and told me how much she enjoyed seeing me out playing ball rather than locked in the migraine vault. A precious memory I hope I never forget.

Migraine: Tally Ho

Volleyball season begins tomorrow for our church league team. Boy, can those Christians be a competitive bunch ;?) I always enjoy our volleyball league play. It is exercise that I can usually participate in, without causing a migraine. Although, sometimes I get dizzy trying to follow the ball.

They finally changed to rally scoring this season, which bums me out. I Can't stand it. I understand why it is the way it is, but I still don't like it. I've been helping coach my daughters high school volleyball team and have definitely know why the scoring has changed. I guess I still have that old school mentality.

I especially think that they should not allow you to lose the game on your own serve. The final winning point should have to be won by serving the ball. You could have a 10 point scoring binge to tie the game and then lose by serving into the net. UUUUGGGHHHHHH.

We'll see how this season goes. My medication is playing havoc with my motor skills. Once an A-League softball shortstop, I now cannot even throw the ball. I am afraid that I'll have the same problem serving the volleyball. I used to have a wicked overhead serve with a lot of top-spin, that struck fear in the hearts of the other team (yea, right). I'll try to provide updates as the season progresses.