Acupuncture for Migraines
Migraines can be debilitating, causing intense pain and disrupting daily life. While there are various treatments available, some people find that acupuncture can be an effective complementary therapy for managing their migraines. And often I see patients come in to see me after trying what feels like everything else to fund relief finally. In this blog post, I'll explore how acupuncture can help alleviate migraines.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected to pathways of energy, or "qi," that flow through the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture balances the flow of qi and promote healing.
How can acupuncture help migraines?
Acupuncture helps with migraines in several ways:
Pain relief: One of the main ways acupuncture can help with migraines is by providing pain relief. Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to release natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins, which can help reduce the intensity of migraine pain.
Stress reduction: Stress is a common trigger for migraines, and acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing stress levels. By reducing stress, acupuncture can help prevent migraines from occurring.
Hormonal balance: Hormonal imbalances can also trigger migraines in some people, particularly women. Acupuncture can help regulate hormone levels by stimulating the release of hormones such as serotonin, which can help prevent migraines.
Improved blood flow: Migraines are often caused by a constriction of blood vessels in the brain. Acupuncture can help improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
What to expect during an acupuncture session
During an acupuncture session for migraines, I will focus on specific points on the head, neck, and shoulders, as well as other points on the body depending on your specific symptoms. The needles used in acupuncture are very thin, so the insertion process is typically painless. Many people report feeling a sensation of pressure or warmth at the insertion points. And more often than not slip into a restful nap while on the table.
Acupuncture sessions typically last 60 minutes and may be repeated several times over the course of a few weeks, depending on the severity of the migraines. And then I suggest coming for maintenance sessions afterward.