5 Common Migraine Triggers You Might Be Overlooking (And How to Fix Them)

  Are We Blaming the Wrong Things for Migraines?

If you ask most people what triggers migraines, you’ll likely hear the usual suspects: stress, caffeine, hormonal changes, or skipping meals.

But what if these aren’t the true causes—just surface-level symptoms of deeper nervous system dysfunction?

As a physiotherapist or physical therapist, you know that the body’s pain response is about more than just external stimuli. The nervous system interprets input, regulates sensory data, and determines whether a situation is safe or threatening.

Migraines aren’t just random occurrences. They are a direct result of neurological dysfunction—and many common triggers are actually signs of a dysregulated nervous system, not the root causes themselves.

How We Approach Migraines  in Applied Neurology:

Understanding these triggers is just the first step. In our Next Level Neuro Fundamentals Program, we dive deep into the science behind nervous system dysregulation and teach practical, hands-on techniques to help clients rewire their brain for resilience.

Whether it’s optimizing sensory processing, recalibrating the brainstem, or improving vestibular function, we provide therapists with the tools to address the root causes of migraines—beyond just symptom management.

Here are five overlooked migraine triggers that might be keeping your clients stuck in a cycle of pain—and how to address them at the neurological level.

1. Sensory Overload and Poor Brainstem Regulation

Most migraine sufferers are hypersensitive to light, sound, or certain smells. Conventional wisdom says, “Avoid bright lights and loud environments.” But that’s not fixing the problem—it’s just avoiding it.

The brainstem is responsible for filtering sensory input, and if it’s not working efficiently, even normal stimuli can feel overwhelming, triggering migraines.

2. Dysfunctional Trigeminal Nerve Signaling

Did you know the trigeminal nerve (Cranial Nerve V) is one of the main pathways involved in migraines? It carries sensory signals from the face, jaw, and head directly to the brainstem—and if it’s overactive, it can amplify migraine pain.

Many migraine sufferers clench their jaw, grind their teeth, or experience TMJ tension—all of which can overstimulate the trigeminal nerve and contribute to migraine frequency.

3. Blood Flow Instability and Autonomic Dysregulation

Many people associate migraines with changes in blood flow, but why does the brain suddenly restrict or increase circulation?

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls blood vessel dilation and contraction. If the ANS is unstable, the brain experiences sudden changes in blood flow, which can trigger migraines.

4. Vestibular Dysfunction and Motion Sensitivity

If a client’s migraines are triggered by motion, changes in posture, or visual movement (scrolling on screens, fast-moving environments), their vestibular system may be the real issue.

The vestibular system regulates spatial awareness, balance, and head positioning. If it’s not functioning properly, the brain may misinterpret movement signals as a threat, leading to dizziness, nausea, and migraines.

5. Unresolved Past Head Injuries and Neurological Compensation

Even if a client doesn’t remember a past concussion or head injury, their nervous system does.

Head trauma—even from minor falls, car accidents, or sports injuries—can disrupt normal brain function for years. Many migraines are the result of lingering nervous system compensations that have never been properly addressed.

The Future of Migraine Treatment: Fixing the Nervous System, Not Just Avoiding Triggers

For years, the migraine conversation has been focused on avoiding triggers—but triggers are just symptoms of a deeper issue.

By addressing sensory processing, trigeminal nerve signaling, autonomic regulation, vestibular function, and past head injuries, we can go beyond symptom management and rewire the brain for resilience.

Want to Learn How to Apply These Techniques in Your Practice?

🚀 The Next Level Neuro Fundamentals Program is designed for physiotherapists, physical therapists, and movement professionals who want to integrate applied neurology into their treatment strategies.

Step-by-step neuroscience training to address nervous system dysfunction at the source.
Hands-on techniques to rewire the brain and prevent migraines.
Expert mentorship so you can confidently apply neurology-based solutions in your practice.

Start using these powerful strategies today and transform how you treat migraines!

 Join the Next Level Neuro Fundamentals Program and take your practice to the next level!