In Australia, there are estimated to be up to 3 million migraine sufferers and up to 7 million tension-type headache sufferers. Almost all of the migraine sufferers and about 60% of tension-type headache sufferers have their social life and work life affected by the condition. In Western medicine, these conditions are often treated with medication, but many people seek out alternative therapies, including TCM, to manage their symptoms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for thousands of years to treat a wide range of ailments, including headaches and migraines. Acupuncture, a technique that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points, is one of the most well-known forms of TCM. While the exact mechanism of action of acupuncture is not fully understood, research suggests that it may help to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension.
Here are some evidence-based findings on the effectiveness of TCM and acupuncture for headaches and migraines:
- Acupuncture may be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture or no treatment in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. The study also found that the effects of acupuncture were comparable to those of prophylactic drugs, such as beta-blockers and topiramate.
Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25077926/
- Acupuncture may be effective in reducing tension-type headaches.
A meta-analysis of 15 RCTs found that acupuncture was more effective than sham acupuncture or no treatment in reducing the frequency and severity of tension-type headaches. The study also found that the effects of acupuncture were comparable to those of pharmacological treatments, such as amitriptyline and flunarizine.
Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30740817/
- Chinese herbal medicine may be effective in preventing migraines.
A systematic review of 25 RCTs found that Chinese herbal medicine was more effective than placebo or no treatment in preventing migraines. The study also found that Chinese herbal medicine was comparable to pharmacological treatments, such as propranolol and valproate, in preventing migraines.
Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29617397/
- Acupressure may be effective in reducing the intensity of migraines.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs found that acupressure was more effective than sham acupressure or no treatment in reducing the intensity of migraines. The study also found that acupressure was comparable to pharmacological treatments, such as sumatriptan and flunarizine, in reducing the intensity of migraines.
Link to study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28379643/
If you are considering TCM or acupuncture for your headaches or migraines, it’s important to work with a qualified practitioner, such as those at Health in Flow Chinese Medicine, based in Melbourne CBD, who can create an individualised treatment plan for you. Also, check out possible two key nutrients you may be missing that are causing migraines and as some headaches are worse with dehydration, find out how much fluid you should be drinking.
