Living with chronic headaches can pose many challenges, and because of the debilitating nature of this condition, it can be especially difficult to find effective means of relief. However, for many people with chronic migraines, one promising treatment that’s helped is acupuncture. For those looking to explore other means of pain relief, we’re here to explore how acupuncture works and how it can be a potential migraine treatment option.
Understanding Acupuncture for Chronic Migraines
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points of the body. According to its uses in Chinese practices, acupuncture alleviates pain by working with the 14 meridians along the body to rebalance disturbances in energy. In Western research, acupuncture is believed to alleviate pain by influencing the body’s neurotransmitters, hormone levels, and even the immune system. Some research suggests that acupuncture reduces the frequency of headaches, like the effects often observed with preventative medications, dropping headache frequencies by at least 50% or more, and the effects can persist for up to 6 months or more.
Placing the needles along specific pressure points along the person’s back or neck to slow pain transmission. For those suffering from chronic headaches, acupuncture can offer several benefits, including:
- Pain Reduction: By placing the needles on various pressure points, the needles can release endorphins and other hormones that stimulate the circulatory system, weakening headache pain. Over the course of multiple sessions, these sessions can help further weaken and reduce migraines over time for longer results.
- Fewer Side Effects: Some people experience unpleasant side effects with their migraine medications or have co-existing medical conditions that make migraine medications unavailable to them. Acupuncture can be a viable alternative alongside other treatments to help control and manage migraines over time.
- Cost Savings: Some migraine therapies can be expensive, and insurance coverage may not fully cover the costs. Acupuncture can help reduce the costs of managing chronic migraines, and some insurance plans can pay for acupuncture treatment.
- Lower Stress Levels: Acupuncture can also help reduce stress levels that contribute to headache pain, promoting better relaxation.
By alleviating pain and reducing stress, acupuncture can be a viable alternative for those suffering from chronic migraines and experiencing poor access to migraine medications and care. Incorporating acupuncture into your migraine care plan should always be done under the guidance of a trained healthcare professional.
Visit Pain Management Services For Chronic Migraine Treatment Today!
If you’re suffering from chronic headaches and interested in exploring the potential benefits of acupuncture, we invite you to reach out to our clinic by calling 314-821-8644. At Pain Management Services, our ultimate goal is to help you effectively manage your health and improve your overall well-being. Through our innovative treatments, we aim to provide effective strategies that bring you relief and enhance your quality of life.
