Acupuncture for Migraines and Headaches
Discover
What is Migraine?
A migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense headaches that often come with some additional symptoms, like sensitivity to light and sound or nausea. Headaches and migraines are not the same. In short, all migraines are headaches, but not all headaches are migraines. Migraines involve changes in brain activity that affect nerve communication, blood flow, and brain chemicals like serotonin. These changes contribute to the pain and other sensations associated with a migraine attack.
Migraines can vary greatly in duration and intensity, lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days, or even weeks, in rare cases. According to the NIH, 1.1 billion migraine attacks have been estimated as for 2019 worldwide, but the real number is likely much higher. Effective management usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, preventive measures, and medical treatments.
Discover
Types of Migraines
Migraines come in different forms and shapes, each with its own unique triggers. Understanding the types can help you find a more effective treatment. Here are the main types:
1
Migraine Without Aura
The most common type, characterized by intense headache pain without any warning signs. Symptoms may include nausea, light sensitivity, and throbbing pain on one side of the head.
2
Migraine With Aura
Includes warning symptoms before the headache, likes visual disturbances (flashing lights or blind spots), sensory changes, or difficulty speaking.
3
Chronic Migraine
Occurs 15 or more days per month, with at least 8 days involving migraine-specific symptoms. Often linked to long-term triggers or ineffective management.
4
Vestibular Migraine
Associated with dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues, with or without headache pain.
5
Hemiplegic Migraine
A rare form that includes temporary weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. It looks like a stroke along with other migraine symptoms.
6
Menstrual Migraine
Triggered by hormonal changes, typically occurring around menstruation.
Discover
What Causes Migraines?
- Migraines are caused by complex changes in brain activity that affect nerve signals, blood flow, and brain chemicals like serotonin. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood just yet, certain factors are known to trigger migraines. These include hormonal changes, like sudden fluctuations in estrogen levels, stress, irregular sleep patterns, and dietary factors like skipping meals or consuming certain foods and beverages (e.g., caffeine or alcohol).
- Genetics also play a role, as migraines often run in families. Environmental factors, like bright lights, strong smells, or weather changes, can also be triggers. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, along with appropriate medical care, can help manage the frequency and severity of migraines. In many cases migraines are triggered by a few different factors rather than just a single one.
Discover
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Migraine
Migraines are usually more than just a severe headache, some of which can severely affect your daily life. Recognizing the symptoms can be the first step to proper treatment. Here are some of the most common migraine symptoms:
- Throbbing or Pulsating Head Pain. Typically on one side of the head but can spread to both sides.
- Sensitivity to Light and Sound. Bright lights and loud noises can make you feel even worse.
- Nausea or Vomiting. Sometimes you might feel so “bad” that you feel nauseous or even vomit.
- Aura. Visual disturbances, like flashing lights or blind spots, that may precede the headache.
- Fatigue and Weakness. Often experienced during or after an episode, leaving you feeling drained.
- Neck Stiffness or Pain. Can occur before or during the headache phase.
- Cognitive Issues. Difficulty concentrating or speaking clearly during a migraine episode.
Still have questions about whether acupuncture is right for you?
Schedule a consultation here to find out!
Discover
Benefits of Acupuncture for Migraines and Headaches
Acupuncture for headaches is a natural and effective way to manage migraines and headaches. Acupuncture can offer both immediate relief and long-term results. It provides benefits that extend beyond just simple symptom management. Here are some of the most notable benefits:
Pain Reduction
Stimulates the release of natural painkillers (mostly endorphins), helping to ease migraine and headache pain.
Less Attacks
Regular head acupuncture sessions can reduce the number and severity of migraine episodes over time.
Stress Management
Deep relaxation and less muscle tension means less stress, which can contribute to migraines.
Better Circulation
Improves blood flow to the head and neck, which can lower tension and inflammation.
Fewer Side Effects
Unlike medications or more invasive procedures, acupuncture has way less side effects.
Better Sleep
Acupuncture for headaches and migraines addresses tension and discomfort, helping you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested.
Discover
How Acupuncture Can Relieve Migraines and Headaches?
Acupuncture can effectively address migraines and headaches by targeting specific acupuncture points for migraines to address pain and underlying triggers. Acupuncture points for headaches improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and calm down the nervous system, which can both ease the intensity and frequency of migraine episodes.
Migraine acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins and other natural painkillers in the body, reducing the reliance on medications, which usually come with numerous side-effects. Acupuncture for headaches also helps ease tensed muscles which usually contribute to pain.
But consistency is very important. Consistent acupuncture for migraines can provide long-term results by addressing the root causes and preventing future episodes. But if you need consistent results, you need consistent acupuncture for migraines sessions.
Discover
Acupuncture for Migraine and Headache Relief at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL
- At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we pride ourselves in providing acupuncture for migraine and headache relief as part of our integrative health care. Our expert acupuncturists combine ancient Chinese medicine for migraines practices with modern knowledge to deliver high quality treatment. For even better results, we can combine acupuncture for migraines with chiropractic care.
- Acupuncture therapy for headaches targets pressure points to reduce pain, improve blood circulation, and balance hormones, which all are linked to migraines and headaches. By addressing underlying causes we aim to provide long-lasting results in a holistic and natural way.
- If you want to find lasting migraine and headaches relief, contact us today to see how our holistic therapies can help you feel your best!
About results
Reviews About Acupuncture for Migraines
I. Love. This. Place! I see both Dr. Mimosa for chiropractic and Dr. Madden for acupuncture, and they are two of the best practitioners of *any* type of medicine I've EVER worked with. They listen. They care. They genuinely want to help you feel your best. I can't recommend them and Copper Wellness enough.
Best Chiropractors in the city yall!! Dr.Mimosa is sweet and easy to talk to. Dr. Adam is very easy to talk to as well. Highly recommend!!!
Can't say enough good things about Anais. Very professional, very knowledgably, and just an amazing caring person! You are in the best of hands with her, would highly recommend!
I have been seeing Dr. Madden for acupuncture for almost a year now and I don't know where I'd be without her. She's incredible at what she does and the entire staff is awesome.
Anais is simply the best! Had a great review, consultation of problem areas and left feeling like I was on a cloud! Can't wait to go back, highly recommend the electrode therapy, it was amazing.
Dr Madden is a miracle worker. For over a year I had issues with my feet. She was the 1st to say my calf’s were right! Her acupuncture was spot on and helped right away. The stress caused issues in my neck as well that she helped not only with acupuncture but cupping as well. Her care and compassion is amazing. I will continue on maintenance because she is so amazing. ‼️
Copper Wellness has been a pivotal part of my health journey! The integrative services that are offered are tailored to my needs/situation. Specifically, when I needed to start doing massage therapy for upper and lower back pain, Cameron Sand did a great job from the start making me feel comfortable. Whenever I have a question, they answer it readily and explain how and what they are doing during our session. I’ve seen a huge improvement since working with them and couldn’t recommend them enough!
I sincerely wish that I could give Dr. Stephanie Madden 1 million stars. From the time that I met her for consultation through my entire acupuncture journey with her, she was incredibly attentive, genuine, personable, professional, precise, safe, knowledgeable, skilled, and wise with her work. I saw Dr. Madden for about 1 a little over a year to help resolve physical issues from emotional traumas and sufferings in my life. I cannot stress how different my life is from when I first saw her. She helped me get to core issues in my physical health that other doctors never came close to articulating, let alone being aware. Working those physical issues directly helped me so much with my emotional health. My quality of life now is so much better because of her contributions to my healing journey. After working with Dr. Madden, she is a practitioner that I trust and deeply respect. If anyone ever asks me to recommend an acupuncturist, I would never hesitate to recommend anyone to her. I even recommended her to one of my friends on his journey to receive a heart transplant, and she made a positive impact on his quality of life. He had nothing but positive things to say about her (and now he is thriving with a new heart!). Dr. Stephanie Madden has made a wonderful impact on my life, and I can only imagine the impact she is making on the lives of others whom encounter her. She is someone that has answered her call in life, and is absolutely brilliant at it. Brilliant!
Look to
Our Insurance Partners
We accept most major insurance plans depending on your type of service.
Got a question?
FAQs About Acupuncture for Migraines
Does acupuncture help migraines?
Yes, acupuncture for migraines and headaches can be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. It works by improving blood flow, releasing tension, and balancing energy, helping to prevent and alleviate pain. Many patients report significant relief with regular treatments.
How often should I get acupuncture for migraines and headaches?
At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we typically recommend starting with one to two acupuncture sessions per week for migraines and headaches, especially during the first few weeks. As your symptoms improve, the frequency may decrease to once a month or as needed for maintenance. The exact schedule depends on individual needs and response to treatment.
Acupuncture for migraines where do the needles go?
At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, acupuncture for migraines typically involves placing needles in specific points on the head, neck, and sometimes the arms or legs. These points are chosen to relieve pain, reduce tension, and restore balance in the body. The exact locations depend on your individual symptoms and areas of discomfort.
Can I combine acupuncture with my current headache or migraine medications?
Yes, acupuncture can be combined with your current headache or migraine medications. It may help reduce symptoms and improve overall treatment outcomes. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes.
How long does it take to see results from acupuncture for migraines and headaches?
At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, many patients begin to notice improvements within 3 to 5 acupuncture sessions for migraines and headaches. For long-term relief, regular treatments over a few weeks are typically recommended.
Does insurance typically cover acupuncture treatments for migraines and headaches?
At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, insurance coverage for acupuncture treatments for migraines and headaches varies. Many plans cover acupuncture, but it’s best to check with your provider to confirm coverage and any requirements. We can assist with verifying your insurance benefits.
Contact us
Contact Information
Learn more about our clinic and doctors and why they are trusted by so many families in our community.
Phone Number:
Email:
Address:
Opening Hours:
Mon: 11AM - 8PM
Tue - Thu: 9AM - 8PM
Fri: 9AM - 6PM
Sat: 9AM - 4PM
Tue - Thu: 9AM - 8PM
Fri: 9AM - 6PM
Sat: 9AM - 4PM
Contact us
Find us