Acupuncture for Migraines and Headaches
Acupuncture for Headaches & Migraines in Natick
At my office, acupuncture for headaches and migraines is the number one most effective ailment treated!
ie almost every single patient that is seeking relief from headaches or migraines is very satisfied with the outcome. Success is measured by changes in frequency of headaches/migraines and intensity of pain. Most patients experience fewer headaches/migraines, reduced pain intensity, and improved overall well-being.
Research shows that acupuncture is more effective than medication for migraines. Source: American Migraine Foundation. This is why patients suffering from migraines are turning to acupuncture to find relief.
How Acupuncture Works for Migraine Relief
In Western terms, Research suggests acupuncture may help by:
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving blood circulation
- Relaxing tight muscles in the neck and shoulders
- Regulating the nervous system
- Triggering the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins
- Helping reduce stress, a common headache trigger
In Eastern terms, we think of it like this:
- Pain is blocked energy or Qi, no matter what the cause is.
- The goal of acupuncture for migraines and headaches is to allow the energy to flow, hence reduce and eliminate the pain.
- A foundational guideline in acupuncture is “When energy flows, disease and illness cannot enter”.
- The most important acupuncture point on the body for migraines and headaches is LI4 or Large Intestine 4; the location is between the thumb and the index finger. Many people are familiar with this point when they come for treatments – it is well known as an acupressure spot that you can massage to help with headaches….. However, one important piece of my treatment plan is to teach my patients how to use this point effectively at home. Then this is a tool they have for life.
Can Acupuncture Help Headaches and Migraines?
Yes! Many patients notice:
- Fewer migraine episodes
- Less frequent headaches
- Reduced pain intensity
- Shorter migraine duration
- Less neck and shoulder tension
- Better sleep
- Reduced stress
- Improved overall well-being
Conditions We Treat
Our acupuncture treatments may help relieve:
- Migraine headaches
- Chronic migraines
- Tension headaches
- Chronic daily headaches
- Cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck)
- Stress-related headaches
- Concussion related headaches
- Hormonal headaches
- Sinus-related headaches
- Headaches associated with muscle tension
Every treatment is customized to your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and health goals.
How Many Acupuncture Treatments Will I Need?
It depends. Here are the main factors we will consider:
- How severe are the migraines.
- How frequently do you get migraines.
- How long has this been going on.
- Do you know the cause (concussion / hormonal related etc)
- Overall health – do you sleep well, are you under a lot of stress etc.
Most people begin to feel improvements after the first 2 – 4 treatments.
Our goal is to reduce and eliminate the frequency and the severity of migraines and headaches while helping you achieve a life free of pain.