The Physiology of Acupuncture for Migraines

1 in 6 Americans suffer from severe headaches, also called migraines, on a regular basis. What are physicians doing to combat migraine symptoms other than prescribing prescription medications? The Journal of Pain Research has been developing and conducting studies regarding the effects of natural treatments, such as acupuncture, for migraines and frequent headache symptoms. Although there are not many studies on the subject matter, the ones existing have provided thorough and positive information toward the credibility of acupuncture treatments.

The Journal of Pain Research conducted an in-depth study where brain imaging was used to show a correlation between acupuncture treatments and its effect on brain metabolites. The study included 45 subjects who were all determined to suffer from frequent and severe migraines. During the evaluation period and before any treatment was administered, the 45 subjects underwent an MRSI Brain Imaging scan which measured the amount of brain metabolites in areas of the brain that housed receptors for pain.

After evaluation, the subjects were administered acupuncture treatments for five consecutive days and then re-evaluated for symptom severity and relief. Upon completion of the full study, researchers concluded that the subjects exhibited a decrease in migraine pain severity and showed a highly significant decrease in brain metabolite levels in areas of the brain such as the Thalami Region. The Thalami Region of the brain is associated with pain.

A positive correlation was drawn between acupuncture treatments and a reduction of brain metabolite levels in the brain, showing a decrease in painful symptoms associated with migraines. The results are a significant attribute to the practice of acupuncture and the availability of natural treatments versus migraine relief from prescription medications.

How does it work?

Acupuncture treatments are uniquely tailored to each patient. Whether you are suffering from frequent, irritating headaches or debilitating migraines, Fast Relief Acupuncture works to figure out what the best route of treatment is for you. Overall, however, acupuncture can provide a multitude of benefits to patients including symptom relief from headaches at all severity levels. Acupoints at specific areas of the body are manipulated to provide pain relief, a stimulation of various systems of the body which will trigger healing processes, and muscle stiffness and tension relief.

Needling is the most common form of acupuncture treatments for migraines. The insertion of tiny hair-like needles into acupoints is virtually painless and there are no negative side-effects.

Fast Relief Acupuncture is proud to identify as a migraine specialist, providing outstanding care and developing satisfactory, lasting results. If you present with any number of the migraine symptoms below or have been diagnosed by a doctor, you can be sure that Fast Relief Acupuncture will garnish the results that you need to heal.

Symptoms of migraines

• Sensitivity to light or sounds
• Severe pain in the head that is described as throbbing, sharp or dull
• Distorted vision
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Overall feelings of sickness (Malaise)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Nasal congestion
• Inability to function as normal

Fast Relief Acupuncture will work together with your doctor to create the best treatment plan for your unique migraine diagnosis. Come heal with us, the fast way!