For many people, headaches can be debilitating and can interfere with day-to-day life. While there are many treatments, recommendations, and medications available for headache relief, one option that may often be overlooked is acupuncture. This ancient Chinese therapy has been used for thousands of years. Here’s what you need to know about how acupuncture can help relieve your headache pain.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture is based on the principle that the body has an internal energy force called qi. This energy flows through pathways in the body called meridians. When these pathways are blocked or out of balance, it can lead to physical and mental disorders. The goal of acupuncture is to restore balance and harmony by unblocking these pathways and allowing qi to flow freely throughout the body.
Acupuncturists use thin needles inserted at specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of qi. This stimulation helps reduce inflammation, relax muscles, release endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers—and promote healing. It also helps improve circulation and reduce stress levels, both of which can contribute to headaches.
How can acupuncture help with headaches?
When it comes to headache relief, acupuncture may support reduction in pain from a wide range of types of headaches, such as tension headaches and migraines. Studies have shown that acupuncture may reduce headache intensity, frequency, duration and improve overall quality of life for those suffering from chronic headaches. It may also help lessen the chances of future episodes by aiding in inflammation relief in the head and neck area while increasing blood flow to the brain. Acupuncture targeting headaches may involve the insertion of needles into specific acupoints on the head, face, neck and upper body.
Additionally, the practitioner may use other modalities such as cupping, moxibustion, or electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of the needles. The number of sessions required can vary depending on the individual case, but typically a series of treatments is needed for optimal results.
When performed by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as medication and lifestyle changes. However, as with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine whether acupuncture is appropriate for your specific condition and to ensure that you receive appropriate care.
Visit Eastern Therapies or book a consult to learn more
If you’re suffering from ongoing headaches and looking for a way to potentially relieve your headache pain without medication, then acupuncture treatment at Eastern Therapies might be worth considering. This ancient Chinese therapy has been used for centuries as a way to address a variety of ailments—including headaches—and studies have shown that it may provide relief from even severe chronic headaches. Give our friendly team a call today to book a consultation.
