There have been many controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for Migraine attacks. The general consensus in research is that acupuncture is significantly better than no treatment or basic care when it comes to managing Migraine attacks. In some cases, acupuncture is at least as effective as prophylactic drug treatments, but with fewer unwanted side effects.
Acupuncture for Migraine is a cost-effective alternative to traditional pharmaceutical treatment routes and may also act as an effective coping mechanism as well as a successful means of pain relief.
It is not completely clear how acupuncture relieves or prevents Migraine attacks. One theory suggests pain relief is achieved after a slew of positive neurotransmitters are released, like endorphins, serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, and oxytocin. This flood of feel-good brain chemicals could, over time, change the way the brain processes pain. Traditional Chinese theory involves the manipulation of Qi – pronounced “chee.” Qi is a flow of energy along pathways within the body that connect the various acupuncture points. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that these energy points can be manipulated using acupuncture needles which brings the body back to a state of equilibrium.