Acupuncture for Migraines
Traditional Chinese medicines have an effective framework for pathophysiology, headache etiology, diagnosis or prognosis, and treatment. Acupuncture has always been used to treat migraines and the greatest benefit is that it doesn’t cause any harm. Unlike synthetic medications, acupuncture poses no virtual side effects while the procedures utilized for treating migraines are less invasive.
Migraine headaches are often one-sided, throbbing, and severe in intensity. With activity, they can become worse and might be associated with vomiting or nausea, as well as hypersensitivity to noise and light. Some patients may also experience auras, which is a neurological symptom that gradually develops over five to fifteen minutes. The patient might still encounter brief flashes or mild changes in their sight or vision. Other common symptoms related to auras include numbness, vertigo, confusion, and imbalance.
Acupuncture: Migraine Relief
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that involves the placement of fine needles into certain parts of the patient’s body, followed by electrical or manual stimulation of the respective needles. Blood flow across the body tissues increases when tiny vessels surrounding the inserted needle dilate. Actions designed to facilitate blood circulation are usually an excellent treatment option for pain and migraines.
Since the pain caused by migraines may involve the dilation of blood vessels inside the head, this could worsen the symptoms. The acupuncture treatment is usually administered while the patient has taken a recumbent position and not a prone position. This technique helps minimize the dilation of blood vessels during the procedure.
Prevention of Migraines Using Acupuncture
Emotional stress is the major trigger for migraines. Most people tend to experience an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system, wherein the parasympathetic branch is inhibited while the sympathetic branch is activated. This form of imbalance might be tied to many other health conditions including, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, heart disease, and hypertension. The acupuncture technique prevents migraines by activating the nervous system and suppressing the muscle tension. The acupuncture points are often chosen on the lower legs and forearms.
The acupuncture technique prevents migraines by activating the nervous system and suppressing the muscle tension. The acupuncture points are often chosen on the lower legs and forearms.
Increased muscle tension around the neck and back is very common in people suffering from migraines; therefore, controlling this pain is an essential measure of preventing migraines. By identifying and treating highly reactive diagnostic points, blood flow to tense muscles can significantly be increased. A low-frequency current might be added to the needles so as to enhance blood flow to the muscle tissues. Certain lifestyle changes can also minimize the incidence of migraines or headaches. They include:
- Avoiding potential triggers
- Getting adequate sleep
- Avoiding caffeine or caffeinated drinks
- Staying away from alcohol
- Avoiding mental or physical fatigue
Safety of Acupuncture
When delivered by highly trained practitioners, acupuncture is extremely safe. The commonest side effects range from mild to acute:
- mild bleeding or bruising
- worsening of pre-existing symptoms
- drowsiness
- soreness
Severe but rare complications include heart or lung injuries and hepatitis C, which can be avoided by utilizing sterilized single-use and disposable needles.
Dangerous Headaches
Certain headaches could be indicators of underlying medical conditions. These include headaches in older people, headaches following traumatic incidences, or headaches accompanied by the following symptoms:
Many sufferers experience severe migraines after undergoing a massage treatment. This isn’t surprising, considering that natural therapies such as acupuncture initiate the healing process by triggering a relaxation response as well as boosting circulation. If you think that you have migraines, you may have to seek acupuncture treatments from a professional practitioner.
