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Acupuncture for Headache & Migraines

Headaches may result from any number of factors, some of the most common types that come to me are migraines, cluster headaches,  menstrual headaches and muscular tension-related headaches.  Though the origin of these headaches is different, my confidence that I will be able to help is very high.

You can search and find many studies showing the effectiveness of acupuncture for migraines.  It is also one of the things that MDs feel comfortable regularly sending patients to me for treatment.

When people are considering acupuncture treatment for migraines, I often get asked, “What if I get regular headaches/migraines do I need to come in while having a migraine or headache?” If you come for acupuncture treatment while having a migraine my goal is for you to leave with relief. If you come in between headaches, then I will do all that I can to prevent any future headaches/migraines.

A case example:

Female patient 37

Treatment 1 – Wednesday

Migraines on and off for years.  This one has grown worse since Sunday, worse with movement, and starts in the back of the head. The patient also has back pain on the right, and shoulder pain on both sides.

Treatment 2 – two days later Friday

The treatment helped, the migraine was completely gone. Lower back and shoulder pain still need work.

Treatment 3 – four days later Tuesday

Yesterday small headache but it did not progress to a migraine and went away quickly. The backside of the head was painful. Lower back 100% better. Shoulders need help.

Treatment 4 – one week later Tuesday

No headache or migraines since the last treatment. Back still 100% better. The priority now shifts to shoulder pain.

Treatment 5 –one week later Tuesday

Still no headache or migraine, after the last treatment the shoulder pain is nearly gone.

Treatment 6 – nine days later Thursday

The shoulders are now 100% better, had one small headache but it went away quickly! The lower back is still pain-free

The patient is now advised that regular acupuncture treatments are no longer needed. She should call if there are any hints of migraine or change in the shoulders or back!

Followup phone call – 6 months later

This patient said that she has only had a couple of mild headaches but no migraines.  The shoulder has tightened here and there when she overdoes it but it is mild and it goes away on its own.


If you keep doing exactly what you’ve been doing is your issue going to stay the same or worsen? Do something different and schedule your first appointment to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment. We pride ourselves on personalized treatments to get you results quickly so you can get back to enjoying life and doing the things you love.

Call (919) 260-4104 now, and I will be happy to answer any of your questions and get you booked for an appointment.