Acupuncture has long been used, very successfully, to treat headaches and migraines. Research by The Cochrane Collaboration (published in 2009) showed conclusively the benefits of this treatment.
The Cochrane review looked at 11 acupuncture trials which involved a total of 6,736 patients. These patients received treatment to prevent migraine episodes or mild to moderate “tension” headaches. The study concluded that after a course of treatment over eight weeks, patients receiving acupuncture had fewer headaches than patients provided with painkillers only (see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7838231.stm)
It should be noted that that study also indicated the use of acupuncture in non traditional ‘points’ (termed ‘sham’ acupuncture) also produced benefit however what is beyond doubt is that acupuncture works.
If you are a long time sufferer of headaches/migraines and willing to try something different why not contact Erik at AcuTy to discuss how treatment could help you? AcuTy has treated many patients for these conditions and uses traditional diagnosis to get to the root of the problem which can be used to treat underlying factors contributing to the symptoms. For example headaches and migraines are often linked to stress, which acupuncture is very effective at relieving, hence treatment can reduce the intensity and pain of the headache but also treat the root of the condition to stop them reoccurring.
Caution: Always seek treatment from a member of The British Acupuncture Council who have the letters ‘MBAcC’ after their name. This is the largest professional body for acupuncturists in the UK and guarantees standards of excellence in safety and training.
