Resistance training for migraine in females: mechanistic review of hormonal, CGRP, autonomic, vascular and nociceptive pathways.

Resistance training (RT) can help reduce migraine frequency in women. Women are more affected by migraines than men, especially after puberty. This is linked to hormonal changes, particularly estrogen levels. The trigeminovascular system and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are important in this process. Non-drug treatments are appealing for managing migraines. RT has shown significant benefits in decreasing monthly migraine occurrences. However, the specific biological reasons behind this are not well understood. This review aims to connect the mechanisms of migraines in women with how RT affects these processes. Understanding these links could improve treatment strategies for women suffering from migraines. Overall, RT appears to be a promising non-pharmacological option for migraine management in females. More research is needed to explore these biological pathways and their implications for effective treatments. Clinical relevance: This research highlights the potential of resistance training as a beneficial non-drug treatment for migraines in women, which may improve patient outcomes and quality of life.