I've been suffering from chronic migraines for nearly two decades, and when I say I've tried nearly everything, I mean it. There's not a migraine medication my doctor hasn't had me try out, and I get 30 to 40 injections of Botox for migraines on my head, neck, and shoulders every three months to lower the frequency and severity of my debilitating headaches. I sleep about nine hours a night whenever possible because I find it helps, and I drink a ton of water in an attempt to avoid dehydration — but still, the migraines come. And while it's almost always necessary for me to take medication when I experience a migraine due to the intensity of the pain, I have found some other remedies that give me relief, either because they take the extra edge off or ease other symptoms. Below, check out 11 of the things in my migraine toolbox, from an icy-cool massage roller to my hands-down favorite CBD tincture. You can grab them all online, and some are even available at drugstores or specialty wellness stores if you don't want to wait for shipping.
Imak Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow
Migraines are often accompanied by light sensitivity, and during those times even the best black-out curtains won't do. This weighted eye mask provides compression therapy and blocks out light so you can truly rest. It can also be chilled in the fridge or freezer, which I personally find extra soothing.
$12 (Shop Now)
Snuz Plus Pillow
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to pillow shape; this one just happens to be mine. The Snuz Plus Pillow is designed with two unique chambers, which the brand claims cradle the head while still supporting your neck, ensuring less stiffness in the morning. After using mine for six months, I believe it.
$35 (Shop Now)
Lord Jones High CBD Pain and Wellness Formula
Claudia Mata, cofounder of CBD-infused skin-care line Vertly, previously spoke to Allure about the wonders of CBD, saying, “It’s got anti-inflammation properties, vitamins A, D, and E, and essential fatty acids." I've tried multiple CBD formulas to reap its benefits and by far, I like Lord Jones's the best. For one thing, both the peppermint and lemon flavors are very mild and pleasant, and it also works well and quickly. I use it to ease muscle pain caused by my fibromyalgia, which can often lead to a headache. I've also found that CBD helps calm my anxiety, which is another therapeutic plus.
$60 (Shop Now)
Real Ease Neck and Shoulder Relaxer
Some of my migraines (and regular headaches) are a result of tension, and this neck and shoulder relaxer works to relieve some of that by "creating gentle traction along the cervical spine." By placing your head in the cushion and allowing it to cradle your neck, it gently relieves pain. According to the brand, it can also be helpful in relieving TMJ and eye strain.
$29 (Shop Now)
Dr. Frederick's Original Trigger Point Massage Ball Set
This Trigger Point Massage Ball Set is perhaps the most portable of all my migraine essentials. These tiny balls can be used to massage pressure points on the temples, neck, and shoulders to relieve pain. Do it yourself, or ask a partner. I frequently bring mine with me on the subway and just rest my head on the spiky ball in my hands — who cares how it looks if it eases your pain?
$15 (Shop Now)
Zensufu Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set
While my migraines are typically too intense to use any of these recommendations on their own (I usually take medication and a combination of these tools), this Acupressure Mat from Zensufu is particularly helpful in easing the throbbing pain I often feel at the base of my skull. Acupressure mats are definitely worth the hype, according to many reviewers, and the shape of the pillow on this particular set massages the pain out of my neck after a long day looking at my computer.
$30 (Shop Now)
Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager
For those times when I just know that a knot in my neck is responsible for my headache, this Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager helps melt it away. If you decide to try it out, many users recommend putting a towel down between the kneading nodes to adjust the intensity at least the first few times you try it, because the pressure can be a lot to get used to.
$40 (Shop Now)
Mentholatum WellPatches
There are times when I'm in pain and would love to be able to lie down with an ice pack or heating pad, but it's just not convenient. That's when I whip out a Mentholatum WellPatch. The brand sells four different varieties, but I prefer the Migraine and Headache Cooling Patches and the Warming Pain Relief Patches.
$5 – $16 (Shop Now)
Hansderma Ice Roller
According to the Mayo Clinic, treating migraines with ice packs can help numb the pain. The only thing better than ice? Pairing it with massage. The Hansderma Ice Roller can be kept in the freezer for emergencies and then brought out to roll away pain on the forehead, temples, neck, and shoulders by yourself or a loved one. It also stays cold for quite a long time.
$22 (Shop Now)
Chillow Cooling Pillow Pad
Do you ever feel so ill that you just want to lay your head down on a cool tile floor? A Chillow Cooling Pillow Pad is the next best thing. It's exactly what it sounds like: a pillow pad that helps cool you down and ease your pain. Keep it in the refrigerator so it's ready for use.
$12 (Shop Now)
PureRelief Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad
Though I typically crave the cooling feel of ice when I have a migraine, sometimes heat is what I really need. The Mayo Clinic touts heat therapy as a top migraine treatment because heat can help relax tense muscles. A heating pad that's shaped specifically for the neck and shoulders, like this PureRelief Neck and Shoulder Heating Pad, is a true life saver when I've been carrying around a heavy tote bag all day and my shoulders are out of whack.
$33 (Shop Now)
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