Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that dates back thousands of years. During an acupuncture treatment, small, thin needles are inserted just below the skin at specific points around the body. In the past, acupuncture was used to improve the flow of life energy through the body. Today, the method is used to treat a wide range of common conditions, such as migraine headaches.
What is a Migraine Headache?
Migraines are headaches that can cause severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. These headaches are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensory disturbances, such as auras. Migraine headaches can last for hours or even days; the pain can be so bad that sufferers are unable to go about their daily activities.
The exact causes of migraines are still not known. Age, sex, family history, hormonal changes, and environmental factors are thought to play a part. It’s a fairly common condition; according to the American Migraine Foundation, at least 39 million Americans live with migraines.
Several factors are thought to trigger migraine attacks, including alcohol, too much caffeine, stress, lack of sleep, physical strains, medications, certain kinds of food, and even the weather. While there is no cure for migraines, there are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms, including medication and lifestyle changes. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for the symptoms of migraine headaches as well.
How Does Acupuncture Alleviate Migraine Headache Pain?
During an acupuncture procedure for migraine pain, the acupuncturist will gently insert hair-like needles at various points around the head and neck. The stimulation from the acupuncture needles improves the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles, tissues, and/or surrounding organs as well as the immune system, accelerating the healing process. The needles also cause the release of endorphins and other hormones into the bloodstream, helping to alleviate pain.
In addition to migraines, acupuncture can effectively manage the pain symptoms of conditions like allergies, osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, sprains, morning sickness, and more.
Acupuncture Treatments for Migraine Headaches in Orange, CA
If you are one of the many people suffering from migraine headaches in Orange County, CA, and over-the-counter medications aren’t providing the relief you seek, maybe it’s time to consider acupuncture. Give Orange County, CA acupuncture clinic QualityAcu a call. Acupuncture therapy can provide a safe and effective alternative to painkillers and other medications.
QualityAcu’s Dr. Greg Maruki is a licensed acupuncturist with many years of experience treating migraines and other conditions using traditional Chinese medicine techniques. He takes a holistic approach to managing pain and stress, with treatments aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the pain rather than just managing its symptoms. In addition to expert acupuncture treatments, QualityAcu also offers percussion therapy, massage therapy, cupping therapy, pain management, and more.
Looking for an effective way to manage pain without the use of drugs? Contact QualityAcu at 714-532-2827 or online to schedule an appointment. Our clinic is conveniently located at 2832 E. Chapman Ave., a few blocks East of CA-55 S.
