Accupuncture Migraine Relief

Acupuncture migraine relief has shown promise in published studies, and practitioners of this alternative medicine report a measure of success with migraine patients. While acupuncture is typically prescribed as a remedy for chronic pain, its use in treating migraines is a relatively recent concept.

How it works

Dilated blood vessels in the head are thought to bring on a migraine attack, so acupuncturists do not stimulate the head and neck with insertion of needles, focusing instead on the patient's extremities. By stimulating extremities, including the arms and legs, blood flow is diverted away from the problem area. Acupuncture can also minimize stress, which is a recognized migraine factor. Shallow insertion of needles, sometimes in conjunction with electrical current, brings the autonomic nervous system into harmony, thus lowering stress levels.

A bevy of benefits

Studies indicate that acupuncture therapy may help alleviate and even prevent migraine pain over the long-term. Published findings suggest that acupuncture can help reduce reliance on pharmaceuticals to treat headache pain, reduce the number of trips to seek medical attention for migraines, reduce lost workdays, and reduce the incidence of migraines. Clinical trials reveal a greater effect from acupuncture compared to placebo for relief of migraine pain.

Researchers and practitioners conclude that acupuncture is a potentially powerful tool for those afflicted with migraine pain. For a relatively low price and with few if any side effects, this alternative to medication can significantly enhance quality of life for those affected by the debilitating condition of migraines.