When a migraine strikes, you may be desperate to find relief. Have you ever considered soaking your feet in hot water as a remedy for headaches? Some social media users claim it works wonders (one TikTok user even said it relieved her migraine symptoms in just four minutes). While seeking medical advice from social media is not recommended, some home remedies for migraines can actually be effective.
Although traditional migraine treatments like medication are popular, some people prefer to explore alternative options. This is why we have discussed various remedies such as ice water, meditation, and eyebrow massages for headaches. Before dismissing the idea of soaking your feet in hot water, let’s see if there is any scientific basis behind it.
Hydrotherapy, which involves using warm or cold water to treat health conditions, has a long history. Dr. Noah Rosen, a neurologist at Northwell Health, mentions that while the evidence supporting this treatment is limited, there is some historical use of ice or hot baths to help with migraines. The common belief that warm water diverts blood flow to the feet to relieve head pain is actually inaccurate. The primary causes of migraines are related to electrical activity in the brain and neuroinflammation, according to Dr. Anna Pace, a neurologist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding how hot water helps migraines, some preliminary research suggests that it might be beneficial. A study published in the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice in 2016 found that hydrotherapy reduced the frequency and intensity of headaches in migraine sufferers. However, the treatment used in the study was more rigorous than simply soaking feet in hot water.
If you decide to try soaking your feet in hot water for headache relief, make sure to avoid water that is too hot to prevent burns. Limit your soak to 20 minutes and be cautious if you are elderly or have underlying health conditions. Those with heart issues should consult their physician before attempting this treatment due to the potential risks.
If cold therapy is more appealing to you, ice packs have been shown to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with migraines. Research has shown that applying a frozen neck wrap at the onset of a migraine headache can significantly decrease head pain. However, there is limited data on using cold water foot soaks for migraine relief.
While hot foot soaks may not work for everyone, there are numerous proven treatments for migraines, including over-the-counter medications, preventive medications, medical devices, consistent sleep, vitamins and supplements, biofeedback, relaxation techniques, acupuncture, and Botox injections. It’s important to discuss all options with your doctor to find the right treatment plan for your individual needs. If your migraines are severe or persistent, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
