Acupuncture: An All-Natural Remedy for Migraines

Migraine attacks, with their throbbing pain, potential visual disturbances, and nausea, are frustrating and debilitating. When you have chronic migraine attacks, defined as 15 or more headache days per month, they interfere with your entire quality of life. About 3-5% of the U.S. population struggles with chronic migraines. 

When you’re seeking an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical migraine disease treatments because of side effects or failed results, acupuncture is a valid option. At Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Kierstin Beaman, DACM, uses acupuncture to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. 

Understanding migraine disease

A migraine attack isn’t just a headache; it’s a complex neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing pain, often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and visual disturbances. They can disrupt daily life, making even simple tasks challenging.

If you have occasional migraine attacks, they’re labeled episodic. Chronic migraines are when you have headaches on 15 or more days per month over at least three months. Among these headache days, a minimum of eight must exhibit the following symptoms:

• Pain intensity that’s moderate to severe and frequently intense
• The pain may affect one side or both sides of the head
• Head pain often presents as a throbbing, pounding, or pulsating sensation
• Physical activity or movement exacerbates the pain

You usually also experience additional symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and/or heightened sensitivity to light and sound.

People with episodic migraines are at risk of developing chronic migraines over time.

The effectiveness of acupuncture

A comprehensive analysis of 22 clinical trials encompassing 4,985 participants showed that acupuncture effectively diminishes the frequency of headaches among migraine sufferers. 

This analysis showed that acupuncture actually mirrors the positive effect of conventional preventive medications. Up to 59% of those who undergo acupuncture experience a 50% or more reduction in headache frequency. The benefits can last over six months following treatment.

How acupuncture works on migraines

Acupuncture, which originates in traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. 

Traditional Chinese medicine holds that migraines occur due to disruptions in the flow of energy along pathways, or meridians, in the body. Acupuncture can restore the balance and clear the pathways, promoting overall health and alleviating symptoms.

Modern medical research suggests that the reason acupuncture works on migraines is because it stimulates channels within the brain that regulate pain perception, effectively triggering mechanisms to ease pain sensation.

Acupuncture can target migraine symptoms

Acupuncture takes a holistic approach to migraine treatment by addressing both symptoms and underlying causes. During an acupuncture session, Dr. Beaman identifies and targets specific acupuncture points related to migraine triggers, such as stress, hormonal changes, or muscle tension. By stimulating these points, acupuncture helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraines over time.

Acupuncture induces relaxation and reduces anxiety

Stress is a common migraine trigger. Acupuncture promotes relaxation by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, and reducing cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. By calming the nervous system, acupuncture helps prevent migraines triggered by stress and tension.

Acupuncture enhances blood flow 

Poor circulation and inadequate oxygen supply to the brain contribute to migraine attacks. Acupuncture improves blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body, including the brain, by dilating blood vessels and promoting circulation. This increased blood flow can help alleviate migraine symptoms and prevent future attacks.

Acupuncture treatments individualized to you

At Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture, we understand that every person is unique, and so are their migraines. That's why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Dr. Beaman conducts thorough assessments to identify underlying imbalances and design customized treatment plans to address them effectively.

Lifestyle for acupuncture treatment

While acupuncture can provide significant relief for migraines, Dr. Beaman also emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications to manage your migraines holistically. She may recommend dietary changes, stress management techniques, and regular exercise. 

Acupuncture offers a safe, natural alternative for migraine relief. If you're seeking relief from chronic migraines and looking for a holistic approach to managing your health, explore acupuncture treatment. Call Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture at 651-272-7998 or book an appointment online today.