Acupuncture for Migraines
Acupuncture Treatment for Migraines in London
Migraines are a type of neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, severe, and often debilitating headaches. These headaches, experienced regularly by thousands of people in the UK, typically present as throbbing or pulsating pain and are often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light and dizziness—all of which can significantly impact daily quality of life.
While acupuncture alone may not be able to address all the causes of migraines, such as genetic factors or neurological abnormalities, it may be used as a complementary treatment alongside other therapies to offer individuals relief from the pain and discomfort that so many people experience from this condition.
Where Are Acupuncture Needles Placed for Migraines?
There is no single set of migraine acupuncture points used for everyone. The points selected can vary depending on the individual assessment, symptoms and treatment approach. Needles may be placed at selected points on different areas of the body rather than only around the head or the area where migraine pain is felt.
At Acubody, Duncan McGechie assesses each person individually before deciding which acupuncture points may be appropriate. The proposed treatment and needle placement can be discussed during the appointment, giving you an opportunity to ask questions before treatment begins.
Are There Side Effects of Acupuncture for Migraines?
People considering treatment often want to know about the possible side effects of acupuncture for migraines. Acupuncture is generally considered safe when carried out appropriately by a suitably qualified practitioner, although temporary effects such as minor bleeding or bruising, soreness where a needle was inserted, drowsiness, nausea or feeling light-headed can occur.
Before treatment, tell your practitioner about any medical conditions, medicines you are taking and other relevant treatments. Acupuncture should complement appropriate medical care for migraine rather than replace medical assessment or prescribed treatment.
How Much Does Acupuncture for Migraines Cost in London?
The cost of acupuncture for migraines in London can vary depending on the clinic, practitioner and length of the appointment. At Acubody, treatment is tailored to the individual following an initial assessment. For current appointment fees and treatment options, please see our Acupuncture Prices page.
The appointment length considered appropriate will depend on the individual and the treatment being provided. For a fuller breakdown of fees and appointment options, see our Acupuncture Cost London guide.
What Happens at a Migraine Acupuncture Appointment?
A migraine acupuncture appointment begins with a discussion of your symptoms, general health, medical history and any treatment you are already receiving. Duncan may also ask about the frequency and pattern of your migraines and factors that appear to be associated with them.
Treatment is then considered following the individual assessment. Acupuncture may be used on its own or, where appropriate, considered alongside Acubody’s bodywork approaches. The same treatment plan is not automatically used for every person with migraine.
Stress Reduction
There is a well-established connection between stress and migraines. Stress is recognised as one of the most common triggers for migraine headaches, and many individuals report experiencing migraines during or after periods of heightened stress.
As acupuncture has been shown to have stress-reducing effects, it may be a useful counterpart to other stress relieving tactics to reduce the chance of stress becoming a trigger for migraines and preventing the onset of frequent migraine episodes.
Reduced Muscle Tightness
Acupuncture may help relax the muscles and reduce tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to migraines or exacerbate pain when one occurs. Muscle relaxation can help improve blood flow and reduce trigger points associated with migraine headaches.
Addressing muscle tightness through migraine acupuncture and other relaxation techniques may help alleviate tension and reduce the likelihood of triggering or making a migraine worse.
A Complementary Treatment for Migraines
Acupuncture is often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments for migraines. It can be integrated into a holistic treatment plan that may include lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, and medication, among other interventions.
Individuals who prefer non-pharmacological approaches or who may have concerns about the potential side effects of certain drugs for migraine relief may find migraine acupuncture to be a viable option for managing symptoms.
Acupuncture for Migraines in London
Acubody offers a wide range of treatments and activities, from neuromuscular therapy to Qi Gong, that can all be included in a treatment program tailored to individual needs.
Our experienced team always considers an individual’s overall health and condition before developing a holistic approach to pain management, which often includes integration of manual therapy with acupuncture.
If you are interested in learning more about how we offer acupuncture for migraines in London, or other relaxation and well-being practices at our centre, we’d love to hear from you.
How Can Acupuncture Help with Migraines?
Acupuncture may help to foster the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. Endorphins can help block pain signals in the brain and spinal cord, potentially leading to a reduction in pain perception from migraines.
Acupuncture may also stimulate other chemicals such as serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions, including mood, appetite, sleep, and pain perception—influencing the body’s response to painful stimuli.
Where do acupuncture needles go for migraines?
There is no universal set of acupuncture points used for every person with migraine. Needle placement varies according to the individual assessment and treatment approach.
How much does acupuncture for migraines cost in London?
The cost of acupuncture for migraines in London can vary depending on the practitioner, clinic and appointment length. For current Acubody fees and appointment options, please visit our Acupuncture Prices page.
How long is a migraine acupuncture appointment?
Acubody offers different appointment lengths. The appropriate duration depends on the individual assessment and treatment being considered.
Where can I find acupuncture for migraines near me in London?
Acubody provides acupuncture at 46 Theobalds Road, Holborn, London WC1X 8NW, serving people looking for acupuncture in Central London.
How can acupuncture help with migraines and tension headaches?
Acupuncture may be considered as part of the management of migraines and tension-type headaches. Treatment involves inserting fine needles at selected acupuncture points, with the choice of points based on the individual assessment. NICE includes acupuncture as an option for migraine prevention and chronic tension-type headaches in certain circumstances.
