Headaches affects millions of people around the world. They can range from mild to debilitating, and can be caused by many different factors, including stress, tension, dehydration, hormones and medical conditions. Many people turn to acupuncture as a natural and effective way to deal with their headaches.
How Does Acupuncture Work?
Acupuncture works by stimulating your natural healing mechanisms, including the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers. By targeting specific points on the body that are known to be associated with headaches, acupuncturists can help to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. In addition to the physical symptoms, acupuncture can also help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can be key factors in preventing headaches.
Systematic reviews have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for a variety of types of headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. In one study, patients who received acupuncture treatment for migraines reported a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their headaches, as well as improvements in their overall quality of life.
"A headache is a sign of something lacking in the body. It's a visible message of a system in the body that's overworking, stressed, or tired."
What to do?
If you suffer from headaches and are looking for a natural and effective therapeutic option, acupuncture may be worth considering. Talk to a registered acupuncturist to learn more about how acupuncture can help you manage your headaches and improve your overall health and well-being.
(References: Linde K, Allais G, Brinkhaus B, Fei Y, Mehring M, Shin BC, et al. Acupuncture for the prevention of tension-type headache. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016;4:Cd007587
Coeytaux RR, Befus D. Role of Acupuncture in the Treatment or Prevention of Migraine, Tension-Type Headache, or Chronic Headache Disorders. Headache. 2016 Jul;56(7):1238-40)
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