How to Use Acupuncture to Treat Migraines

The wide range of migraine symptoms can be difficult to treat. Conditions as varied as headache pain, dizziness, cold extremities, visual disturbances, nausea and vomiting are often hard to diagnose as well as to relieve. Acupuncture, tests now suggest, may be as useful as synthetic drugs in easing migraines. A holistic treatment that addresses the body's structure and overall health, acupuncture is effective against migraines for many people. Read on to learn how to use acupuncture to treat migraines.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Understand Your Symptoms

1. Learn about migraines and their symptoms, such as dizziness, nausea and sensitivity to light. You may not be fully aware of the extent of your condition or you may be mistaking another problem for migraine disease, which is different.

2. Understand the causes of your symptoms and how you can use acupuncture to address them. The alteration of blood flow during a migraine is suited to acupuncture therapy, which optimizes health by managing energy flow.

3. Read about the theory of acupuncture in "Acupuncture for Everyone." See the Resources section below for a link.

Treat Symptoms With Acupuncture

4. Find a qualified acupuncturist through a state board, chiropractor's referral or wellness center. Many Chinese medicine practitioners provide acupuncture services and treat other conditions in addition to migraines.

5. Discuss your migraine and complete health history with your acupuncturist. Mention your goals for pain and nausea relief. Be prepared to report on your diet and exercise level.

6. Receive acupuncture treatments as frequently as suggested after your initial visit, giving your body several months to adjust and respond to the treatment.

7. Schedule follow-up treatment on an as-needed basis once it has had a significant effect on your migraine experience. Some patients sustain markedly reduced headache pain by seeing an acupuncturist only once a year.

Tips & Warnings

• Acupuncture releases chemicals called endorphins in the body, helping to relieve pain.
• The effects of acupuncture are cumulative. You should require fewer sessions as time goes by.
• Acupuncture may be less expensive to use than prescription drugs in the long-run.
• Use a state-licensed acupuncturist at all times. He is required to be trained in hygiene and transferable-disease prevention.
• Needles should never be re-used in acupuncture sessions.

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Resources

• Migraine Info and Online Forum at HealthCentral.com
• Insight in Acupuncture for Everyone

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on 3/3/2008 Here is a site where you can find a very useful at-a-glance chart on the health concerns that can be addressed with acupuncture.

http://www.rvita.com/remedy/acupuncture.html

There is information about effectiveness for different conditions. You will later be able to connect with providers in your area.