Benefits of Acupuncture on Treatment of Migraines

According to a 2018 study, “roughly 1 out of every 6 American and 1 in 5 women over a 3-month period” suffer from migraines. This in itself is a devastating reality, however, the impact goes much deeper due to the affect it has upon enjoyment of life and activities.

There are several systematic reviews on the treatment of migraines with acupuncture. A 2020 research article assessing these reviews found that “acupuncture reduced more headache days and the times of using painkiller and was more effective in reducing the frequency and degree of headache than western medicine and sham acupuncture.”

Another study found that the frequency of migraines dropped by 50% or more in up to 59% of individuals receiving acupuncture. Furthermore, they found that this benefit continued for more than 6 months in most patients.

Acupuncture works through the application of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are chosen based upon symptoms experienced and information found from an examination from the doctor.

Many acupuncture points have been found to slow the transmission of pain to the brain. This is often due to release of pain fighting chemicals in the brain, called endorphins. There are also other pain blocking pathways that are thought to be stimulated by different needles.

Additionally, when needles are inserted blood flow is drawn to that area. Blood carries healing chemicals and nutrients, so when blood is brought to an area it stimulates the healing process.

If you or a loved one is one of the many individuals that suffer with migraines, acupuncture may be a great non-invasive therapy that can help achieve the desired relief.