Acupuncture for Migraines
Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical techniques in the world, practiced in China for over 2,000 years. It is a Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment that involves stimulating some of the over 800 vital energy points in the human body with fine, hair-thin needles to release chi and promote the body's innate healing capabilities. Acupuncture is scientifically supported for the treatment of a number of issues, including pain management, stress, digestion, sleep, pain - and migraine headaches.
More than 39 million people in the United States struggle with migraines. Symptoms of migraines are intense, sufferers experience debilitating headaches that may be accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and/or extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
The good news is that many migraine sufferers find relief from acupuncture.
Acupuncture helps the body balance serotonin levels as well as boosts endorphins. Both play a role in migraine headaches. In fact, research found that acupuncture reduced the frequency of headaches by roughly 50% in migraine sufferers. It comes as no surprise then that both the American Migraine Foundation and the World Health Organization recognize the value of acupuncture for migraines and pain - as do many patients.
If the relief isn't reason enough, there's another benefit to choosing acupuncture over other migraine treatments: it doesn't come with the negative and potentially dangerous side effects that harsh pharmaceuticals can cause. Such side effects include fatigue, nausea, depression, dizziness, dry mouth, hair loss, tingling, weight changes, difficulty concentrating, confusion, and more.
In addition to acupuncture, migraine sufferers can also make lifestyle changes to decrease potential triggers. This can include nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
At The Points of Health in Central Florida we offer acupuncture along with other holistic therapies to help you take control of your health. If you are one of the countless Americas struggling with migraines or other health issues, we can help!
What to expect on your first visit?
Most acupuncture practitioners work with patients to form a treatment plan that addresses both the blockages themselves and the things that cause them. These treatment plans, like those of Western Medicine, often include diet and lifestyle changes to enhance the patient's well-being. People who suffer from migraine headaches need to tell their acupuncturist exactly where their pain is during a migraine attack. Where to apply acupuncture needles depends on where the migraine pain is most acute.
At your first acupuncture appointment, your acupuncturist will conduct a full health history to find out about the underlying causes of your health and wellness concerns. You will be asked a series of questions about your symptoms, health, and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist may examine your tongue, check your pulse, and palpate various areas on your body to help determine which organs and meridians are out of balance. With this information, your acupuncturist will customize a treatment plan to rebalance your body and resolve your issues. Recommendations may include acupuncture, cupping, injection therapy, food therapy, or any of our other holistic services.
What other conditions can be treated with acupuncture?
Acupuncture has been found to be beneficial for a broad range of health issues including acute conditions as well as chronic and degenerative issues including pain, headaches, sports injuries, headaches, infertility, gynecological issues, mood issues, trouble sleeping, digestive ailments, weight management, hormonal issues, and other imbalances.
