Acupuncture for Headaches and Migraine

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions, including tension headaches, headaches, and migraines. It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body.

Possible effects of acupuncture on tension headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and they are characterized by a dull, aching pain that often feels like a tight band around the head. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of tension headaches.

One study found that acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture in reducing the frequency of tension headaches by at least half. Another study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the severity of tension headaches.

Possible effects of acupuncture on headaches

Headaches are a broad category of pain that can occur anywhere on the head. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, dehydration, and caffeine withdrawal. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches from a variety of causes.

One study found that acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture in reducing the frequency of headaches by at least half. Another study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the severity of headaches.

Possible effects of acupuncture on migraines

Migraines are severe, debilitating headaches that are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.

One study found that acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture in reducing the frequency of migraines by at least half. Another study found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the severity of migraines.

Clinical studies

Here are some links to clinical studies on the use of acupuncture for tension headaches, headaches, and migraines:

• Tension headaches: A systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture for tension-type headache: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10208222/
• Headaches: Acupuncture for the treatment and prevention of headaches: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4341285/
• Migraines: Acupuncture for the prevention and treatment of migraine: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6790060/

NICE guidelines

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is the UK’s body that provides guidance on the best practice for healthcare. NICE guidelines on tension headaches and migraines recommend acupuncture as a possible treatment option for people who have not responded to other treatments.

For tension headaches:

• NICE recommends that people with chronic tension-type headache should be offered a course of up to 10 sessions of acupuncture over 5 to 8 weeks.

For migraines:

• NICE recommends that acupuncture may be offered as an add-on treatment to people with migraine who have not responded to other treatments.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment option for tension headaches, headaches, and migraines. It is especially well-suited for people who have not responded to other treatments. If you are considering acupuncture, be sure to see a qualified acupuncturist.

Additional information

Here are some additional things to keep in mind if you are considering acupuncture for tension headaches, headaches, or migraines:

• Acupuncture is generally safe, but there are some rare side effects such as occasional bleeding/bruising

• If you are taking any medications, be sure to tell your acupuncturist before your treatment.

You can find more information about acupuncture on the websites of the following organizations:

• British Acupuncture Council: https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/: https://www.acupuncture.org.uk/
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE): https://www.nice.org.uk/: https://www.nice.org.uk/