Migraine & Headache Treatment with Acupuncture — Ontario, CA
Migraine is its own neurological condition, distinct from a bad headache — light and sound become unbearable, nausea is common, and the pain has a throbbing or pulsing quality that's hard to ignore. Patients arrive with patterns ranging from one episode a month to weeks of chronic migraine. Most have tried preventive medications, abortive prescriptions, and lifestyle changes. Many still have several disabling days a month.
Call (909) 239-6094Why acupuncture helps
Migraine is a sensitization condition — the trigeminovascular system over-responds to triggers that wouldn't bother a non-migraineur. Acupuncture may help with central sensitization patterns that contribute to chronic headaches. Cochrane reviews on acupuncture for migraine prevention have shown encouraging results in clinical trials. We do not compare acupuncture to medication; both can be part of a comprehensive plan with your physician. Cervicogenic and tension-type headaches often layered on top of migraine may also respond.
What treatment looks like
First visit reviews triggers, attack pattern, and current medications, plus a cervical and upper trapezius exam — much migraine has a cervicogenic component that may respond to local work. Plans commonly involve weekly visits early on, then spacing out as appropriate. Sessions combine scalp and forehead points with neck, upper back, and distal points; specific selection depends on the individual pattern. Herbal formulas may support certain patterns. We track frequency in a simple log so it's clear what's changing.
Related issues we often see with this
Patients with chronic migraine often see changes in frequency and intensity over a course of treatment. Individual results vary, and acupuncture is best used alongside care from your physician.