Julie Shindler-Cohen, R. Ac., Dipl. OM, FABORM
Headaches are a common problem that affect people all over the world. Finding the right treatment can be difficult because headaches occur for different reasons. Many patients have found relief through acupuncture, a traditional Chinese practice that has been used for thousands of years.
Acupuncture for Tension Headaches
Tension headaches can cause significant discomfort. The symptoms include dull aching in the head, neck tenderness or tightness, and feelings of pressure behind the eyes, along the forehead, or on the sides or back of the head.
Acupuncture interacts with the nervous system to signal the brain to direct blood flow to the affected region. This helps relax muscles and reduces pain and tension. The procedure also causes the release of endorphins and enkephalins, which naturally stop pain.
Acupuncture for Migraines
A study was published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal that involved nearly 500 adults with migraines. Some participants were treated with real acupuncture while others were treated with a fake imitation involving needles inserted at nonspecific points in the body. Participants had no idea which they received during the four-week-long study.
While both groups experienced some relief immediately, only those who received real acupuncture reported long-term improvement. On average, those who received acupuncture had reduced migraine intensity and frequency three months later while those who received the sham treatment did not.
Acupuncture for All Other Headaches
Acupuncture offers a holistic alternative to conventional medical treatments for all headaches and migraines. Contact Michigan Associates of Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine in West Bloomfield, Michigan to make an appointment with one of our experienced and highly trained acupuncturists.
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