How acupuncture can aid those who suffer from migraines.

Migraines are the 3rd most prevalent disorder in the world, affecting over 100 million people globally. It’s estimated to cost approximately $10 billion per year in the United States alone as a result of dwindling productivity and marked up healthcare utilization. It’s a complicated neurological condition that involves several subcortical and cortical areas.

Although the real cause of migraines is yet to be fully established, environmental and genetic factors play a considerable role in increasing its risk. According to the mayo clinic, people with a family history of the condition are three times more likely to have it than those without. Similarly, it can be caused by vascular adjustments.

That said, if you often experience migraines and headaches, it’s highly probable that you already know how seriously they can affect your normal life. Often at times, you will find it hard to even think beyond the pain in your head. That’s when finding a migraine treatment that works becomes a priority.

Over the counter painkillers are usually more than enough to counter most infrequent and mild migraines. However, when you experience pounding headaches regularly that don’t respond to the treatment, most physicians often recommend preventive medicines.

Sadly, most of these drugs not only have side effects but are so not so well-tolerated by many. This has caused many people suffering from chronic and persistent migraines to turn to alternative migraine treatment solutions for relief. A good example is traditional acupuncture.

What Does Research Tell Us About Acupuncture for Migraines?

Acupuncture medicine has been used to relieve migraines and other underlying conditions for hundreds of years. Research shows that it can offer permanent relief without adverse side effects that standard prescription drugs cause, such as irregular pulse rates, nausea, or dizziness.

The treatment technique is considerably different from routine medication in the western world as it focuses on specific symptoms that are unique to every patient rather than generalization. It also uses various approaches such as bodywork massage and energetic exercises to correct any imbalances in your body.

The procedure mainly involves placing fine needless along a patient’s forehead, feet, hands, arms, shoulders, and temples. According to research by Duke University Medical Center researchers, the treatment is more potent than regular medication in minimizing the frequency and severity of chronic migraines.

The analysis by the Duke team examined more than 25 studies that compared acupuncture to conventional medicines to arrive at that conclusion. The research involved over 3000 patients who were experiencing tension headaches, migraines, and other types of headache-related conditions with several symptoms.

In 17 different trials, 62% of the patients who opted for acupuncture reported migraine relief as opposed to only 40% of those who were taking standard medication. The researchers also found that acupuncture patients were in a healthier state than the medication patients. Also, in studies comparing sham therapy to acupuncture, 54% of the acupuncture group responded well to treatment compared to only 44 % of the sham therapy patients.

Research conducted in 2009 by the Cochrane Library found that acupuncture proved to control brain pain centers. The trial involved 12 different studies with over 2000 participants. The main idea behind the research was to ascertain the effectiveness of acupuncture for migraines in treating chronic headaches as compared to those who received routine medication. 47% of acupuncture patients reported a decrease in the frequency of headaches by over 49 percent, as opposed to only a 15 percent decrease for those on routine care.

When to see your doctor

Migraines or severe headaches after an accident or a heavy blow that keep getting worse indicate that you require immediate and thorough attention. Some migraines can be caused by critical underlying factors such as allergic reactions and, as such, need to be checked by a medical doctor. Just remember to tell your doctor about any alternative treatment you are receiving for a precise diagnosis.

Try Acupuncture for Migraine Relief

Recurrent headaches and migraines interfere significantly with general well-being. Most standard medications used to counter and prevent the conditions can sometimes make the situation worse. They may not only be ineffective but also cause severe side effects.

That’s why it is essential to consider other treatment options. Research shows that acupuncture for migraine relief works for all types of migraines, including cluster headaches, disease-related headaches, post-traumatic headaches, and tension headaches.

What’s more, unlike synthetic medication, which can easily lead to rebound headaches, it’s gentle, safe, and has no side effects. Not sure of where to go for certified and competent acupuncture for migraines session? Well, because it is a somewhat ‘new’ treatment in the western world, there is still very few certified acupuncture for migraines and yoga studios in Palm Harbor. Among the elite few are the healing instructors at East West Healing Solutions.