Is Acupuncture Effective for Headaches and Migraines?
When you suffer from headaches or migraines you learn to adapt by living in a certain way. Triggers play a huge part of your life. One of the first things we teach patients is how to identify their triggers. You don’t know what yours are? Let us help you figure it out! This isn’t always obvious since it takes some trial and error and, in some cases, your pain doesn’t hit you until the following day. We work closely with our patients not only to treat their headaches, but also to identify the causes, so they are able to prevent them as well.
Since headaches and migraines can come out of nowhere, I like to always be prepared. In my arsenal I carry a few things around daily to ensure I am ready for what life throws at me.
Do you want to know what I carry in my purse?
Peppermint oil – I put it where I have the pain in my head (make sure it’s not close to your eyes as it will burn!), or I use a couple of drops in my mouth, or on an acupuncture point if I am nauseous.
Neck & shoulder herbal formula – I LOVE this formula. I use it preventatively as well as when I am having pain/tightness or feel a headache coming on from my neck pain.
Oral CBD – as an anti-inflammatory, it calms my nerves as I start anticipating the worst and can help get me through the day.
Topical CBD – again, it’s an anti inflammatory, but it’s really targeted for releasing tight muscles and local discomfort or pain.
Sunglasses or blue blocking glasses – If I am driving, I have to wear my shades because otherwise the sunlight just makes me feel worse. If i am in my office or at home and must finish work on the computer or phone then i put my blue blockers on and it helps let me finish the tasks at hand.
What you can do to prevent headaches/migraines
Get acupuncture regularly. Once you have been through a treatment plan, maintenance would be once a month or every 6-8 weeks depending on severity and lifestyle.
Stretch daily. The best times of the day are before falling asleep and when you wake up. There are several neck/shoulder stretches that increase mobility, release tension and strengthen weak muscles from overuse.
Chiropractor and/or massages monthly.
Use essential oils regularly. I love Valor or Balance on the spine if I’m feeling out of alignment, not in touch with myself, stressed, or need some motivation.
Magnesium nightly. This helps you sleep deeper, wake rested, and it relaxes muscles. It also helps restless leg syndrome as well as constipation.
Cherry juice. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and releases natural melatonin to help you fall and stay asleep.
What can you do when you are in PAIN
Keep herbs on hand. I have 2 favorite formulas: Head Relief for headaches and Neck & Shoulder for tension headaches.
Start drinking lots of water. Sometimes you can get headaches from dehydration.
Apply peppermint essential oil in the area of pain.
Did you know Duchess Meghan Markle used to have debilitating migraines? She credits Eastern medicine for her relief. She is quoted as saying: “Migraine free living is a game changer!”
Research shows that acupuncture can significantly help headaches and migraines. A systematic review conducted by Klaus, Linde, et al., found that acupuncture is a valuable option for migraine sufferers, with results clinically relevant as compared to prophylactic medication, but without the side effects that medications carry.
Similarly, a research review found that chronic tension headaches were relieved by acupuncture.
You don’t need to suffer from headaches or migraines. We can help you find relief. Schedule an appointment today.
