Headaches & Migraines
Headaches and migraines are common ailments that can has a significant impact of quality of life. Acupuncture offers natural and non invasive approach to help alleviate the actual headache/migraine but also work on the root cause of what’s causing them in the hope to reduce the frequency and severity of future episodes.
What are headaches and migraines?
Headaches:
Headaches are typically defined as pain or discomfort in the head and scalp sometimes extending down into the neck. They can vary in intensity and duration from mild and short lasting to severe and long lasting. There are different types of headaches including:
Tension headaches
Cluster headaches
Sinus headaches
Migraines:
Migraines are more intense and complex than regular headaches. They are often categorised by severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by nausea/vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light) and can sometimes be proceeded by an aura. Migraines can last from several hours to days.
What causes headaches and migraines:
The causes of headaches and migraines can be multifaceted and can vary from person to person. Some common triggers include;
Stress and anxiety
Hormonal changes – especially for those with a menstrual cycle – changes in normal levels around the time of ovulation or bleeds
Dietary triggers: foods like caffeine, alcohol and processed foods as well as dehydration
Environmental factors: bright lights, strong smells, weather changes and sounds
Physical strain: poor posture, long hours looking at a screen or insufficient sleep
Acupuncture for headaches / Acupuncture for migraines:
Acupuncture can be a useful tool in helping to manage headaches and migraines and by also addressing the underlying root cause aims to reduce their severity and frequency on a more long term level. Is does so by;
Pain relief: Acupuncture can trigger the release of endorphins and other natural pain relieving chemicals, which can then help to reduce the pain from the headache or migraine.
Improved blood flow: Certain acupuncute points influence blood flow in the head and neck which can be beneficial in management of headaches and migraines.
Hormone balance: Acupuncute can help with the balancing of hormones helping with the management of headaches and migraines linked with menstruation and other hormonal changes
Stress management: often headaches and migraines can be preceded or exacerbated by stress. Acupuncture is a useful tool in helping to manage and abate the effects of stress and can therefore help with headaches and migraines that have a stress component.
If you are suffering from headaches or migraines and are looking for some support please get in touch or come visit the Red Door clinic in Caulfield!
*Disclaimer: Each individuals treatment and/or results may vary depending on their specific presentation. No results can be promised or guaranteed from receiving treatment.
