In the U.S., 39 million people suffer from migraine headaches, according to the American Migraine Foundation. A migraine is a type of headache that is often accompanied by sensitivity to light and nausea and can last for hours or days. A doctor may give a patient with a migraine headache pain medication and help the patient identify triggers, such as caffeine, that cause the problem and help them avoid the triggers, if possible. There are alternative treatments for reducing the frequency of them or helping with the symptoms.

Acupuncture, the 2,000-year-old Chinese healthcare practice that involves improving the flow of energy or "qi" in the body by inserting needles in certain areas of it, is an option for someone who gets migraine headaches to reduce the frequency of them. Based on a systematic review of 22 clinical trials involving 4985 people, there is evidence that acupuncture reduces the frequency of migraine headaches. The frequency decreased from an average of six times per month to three-and-one-half times per month, according to the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Dr. Anthony Wright, Jr. and Dr. Gloria Wright can provide you with acupuncture care for migraine headaches at Total Health Primary Care in Selma, TX.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

According to the ancient Chinese health practice of acupuncture, the body has 14 meridians and if the flow of energy along them is disturbed, a person could experience pain or illness. The acupuncture appointment usually last about an hour. It is usually recommended to go to the acupuncturist at least six times, usually once a week. The acupuncturist may make dietary recommendations, such as not having caffeine because it can disrupt the flow of energy or qi in the body. 

The placement of needles near nerves in the body may stimulate the release of endorphins and other hormones that may relieve pain and migraines. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates the needles that are used by an acupuncturist. They are single-use needles, and you can ask to see them before the needle placement to verify that they are new and sterile.

Dr. Anthony Wright and Dr. Gloria Wright can provide you with acupuncture care for a migraine headache at Total Health Primary Care in Selma, TX. Call their office today at (210) 654-9300 to schedule your appointment.