What is a migraine? A migraine is more than just a headache; it is a neurological condition that consists of moderate to severe throbbing or pulsing in certain parts of the head that lasts between 4-72 hours. They are caused by a combination of factors, including stress, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, depression, or even brain chemistry. Luckily, acupuncture can relieve certain symptoms that could be the cause of a migraine and get to the root of the issue.
Stress
Intense stress can leave negative effects on the body, such as migraines. Acupuncture can clear blockages in the body’s energy and reduce emotional and physical tension. Acupuncture also releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain killers, and serotonin, which can improve overall mood and reduce anxiety. Once the body gets out of “fight or flight” mode, it is able to enter the “rest and digest” mode and destress naturally.
Sleep
Due to acupuncture releasing serotonin and melatonin, it is able to help the body regulate its sleep-wake cycle and reduce cortisol, which is the body’s stress hormone. Acupuncture also uses specific points on the body, such as ones used to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, which can help you fall asleep faster, wake up less often, and improve the overall quality and quantity of sleep.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal imbalances in the body can disturb sleep by interfering with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, regulating body temperature, and managing stress responses. High cortisol can suppress melatonin production and keep the brain on high alert, which can prevent relaxation. Low levels of progesterone, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can lead to bedtime anxiety and disturbed sleep. Similar to low levels of progesterone, low levels of estrogen during menopause can lead to night sweats and hot flashes. Acupuncture can help manage hormonal imbalances by stimulating the nervous system, which can lower cortisol, increase blood flow to reproductive organs, and regulating the endocrine system, which controls the production and release of reproductive hormones.
Where Can I Receive Treatment?
Here at Essence Acupuncture, we offer individualized sessions that will get to the root of your migraines and get you on the path to healing! Call us at 210-236-5862 to schedule your complimentary consultation today!
References
Acupuncture and Migraine. (n.d.). American Migraine Foundation.
https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/understanding-migraineacupunct
ure-and-migraine-finding-a-combination-that-sticks/
Chen, J. (2017, July 10). Women, Are Your Hormones Keeping You Up at Night? Yale Medicine.
https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/women-are-your-hormones-keeping-you-up-at-night
Donato, A. (2022, September 13). Why You Should See an Acupuncturist if You’re Stressed.
Leehealth.org.
https://www.leehealth.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-news-blog/mental-health/why-you
-should-see-an-acupuncturist-if-you-are-str
Ko, J. H., & Kim, S.-N. (2018). A Literature Review of Women’s Sex Hormone Changes by
Acupuncture Treatment: Analysis of Human and Animal Studies. Evidence-Based
Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2018, 1–9.
https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/3752723
