What causes a headache?

 Most of us will experience some form of headache in our lives. From dehydration, exhaustion, stress, eyesight issues and alcohol, to malnourishment, periods and the menopause. The causes of a headache are far and wide. And, sometimes it may be very difficult to find the trigger or the cause.

Most headaches can be eased with plenty of water, rest, gentle exercise or relaxation techniques. However, for other unfortunate people, the headache does not go away or can keep coming back.

A severe throbbing headache at the side or front of the head could be a migraine, or more rarely be a cluster headache. On this occurrence, you might also feel sick, suffer muscle weakness and find it difficult to be in the light.

If you are suffering from an increased number of headaches or severe head pain, then you should see your GP for advice. They might sometimes refer you to a neurologist to look into it further or prescribe you some medication to ease the symptoms.

How might acupuncture be able to help your headache?

In addition to traditional Western medication for headaches, many people have found relief via acupuncture treatment.

Acupuncture seeks to restore a natural flow of positive energy through your body, removing any blockages or negative energy that may be causing you pain. Acupuncture stimulates various systems in your body, which can then trigger positive healing results. It can also be an extremely relaxing process, therefore offering relief for headaches caused by tension and stress.

During an acupuncture session, thin needles are inserted into different pressure points on your body, depending on your headache symptoms. The needle points are located close to nerve centres in your body, which could be linked to the source of the head pains you are experiencing.

Alleviating your headache symptoms

There are several acupuncture points on the gallbladder channels (or “meridians”) that are very effective at drawing this excess energy down from your head. The gallbladder channel, (after zig-zagging over both sides of the head), then travels down your neck and outwards across your shoulders, which is why tension in your neck and shoulders is also often associated with some types of headache.

Often, you will begin to feel instant relief from a headache or migraine during your acupuncture session. Your headache could clear completely, or it may begin to ease, and then fade gradually after the session after a good rest or sleep.

Of course, there many other types of headache, and a range of possible causes for each. Therefore, my approach to making an initial diagnosis would be very bespoke.

How many acupuncture treatments are needed?

Chinese acupuncture is usually very effective in treating migraines and other headaches, and the benefits are usually noticed within the first few treatments.

However, acupuncture treatment for headaches will very much depend on each patient. After an initial course of treatment, you might need very little further treatment to remain symptom-free. However, if you have a particularly stressful life, and find it hard to adjust your lifestyle, then you may find that regular acupuncture treatments could help to keep the tension headaches minimised or removed altogether.

If you suffer from regular headaches or migraines, please feel free to arrange a free acupuncture for headaches consultation where we could chat about how I can help you on 07787 831 275.