Acupuncture, a form of traditional medicine used for hundreds of years in China, is used around the world for its holistic treatment of a variety of health concerns. Among the ways acupuncture may be able to help you is by relieving and preventing migraines. For men and women who struggle with migraine pain, acupuncture provides an effective solution to reduce both chronic as well as acute symptoms.
What is acupuncture?
According to Chinese medicine, there are 14 pathways, or meridians, within the body. In many situations, disturbances occur along those pathways, limiting the flow of energy. This can be due to illness or pain, for example. Without these disturbances, energy flows through the body without obstruction. With acupuncture, it’s possible to pinpoint those areas and treat them, allowing energy to flow normally again.
How can acupuncture aid with migraines?
Studies indicate that acupuncture has the ability to reduce pain from migraines. It can also reduce how frequently some people experience them. A study published by the Cochrane Library found that 59 percent of those receiving the treatment reported a reduction of at least 50 percent in the frequency of their migraines.
How can this happen?
Those who have studied this form of Chinese medicine, who are called acupuncturists, are able to improve the flow of energy through the body through several techniques. The energy flow, known as qi, can be accessed at specific areas on the body. By pinpointing the specific areas of concern or disturbances, it’s possible to improve that energy flow.
To do this, the acupuncturist places very small, thin needles into specific pressure points on the body. In migraine treatment, this is typically along the neck or back. Once placed, the needles help to stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal. The pain slows over a few minutes or longer.
Why it works
Why does this work? While many people report improvement, researchers simply don’t know why it works specifically. However, it is clear that this method is holistic, requiring no chemicals or invasive surgery. It aids people who have suffered long-term from migraines and severe headaches to get relief even when other methods and treatment options have not been helpful.
Researchers believe that acupuncture works because it activates specific pathways in the body that relate to the brain. These pathways tell the brain of pain. By stimulating the area, it’s possible to “turn off” the pain signals, creating improvement nearly right away.
In addition, the use of acupuncture needles encourages the body to release specific hormones, such as endorphins. These endorphins interact with the body, boost the immune system, and stimulate the flow of blood. This process helps to reduce the pain and tension felt from the headache.
Not everyone has the same experiences. However, a skilled acupuncturist is generally able to provide help to reduce pain.
Is acupuncture right for you?
There are very few risks and a wide range of potential benefits to trying acupuncture. It’s important to choose a licensed and skilled professional for this service. Look for a professional who takes the time to learn about your pain and then creates a customized treatment plan to address it.
Many people benefit from seeing an acupuncturist at least one time every two to three days or twice a week. However, some visit if they have a migraine or feel one coming on. In all cases, the acupuncturist can provide you with insight into what type and amount of care are right for your individual situation. Acupuncture provides the potential for relief without complications, and it’s important to seek out care if you are struggling with headaches like this.
Book your acupuncture visit to start finding relief
When you entrust Integrated Oriental Medicine with your health, you gain new opportunities for healing and well-being. Learn more about our acupuncture service for migraine relief by calling our team at 206-395-2802, or book online now.
