Today I would like to talk about three reasons why acupuncture is better than drugs for migraine headaches:

Acupuncture works right away

If you happen to come into our clinic when you are in the midst of a migraine episode, chances are you will leave feeling much better.  The acupuncture method we use has an immediate effect.  Before you leave the office, your symptoms may be completely gone.  If not, they should be significantly reduced.  This is a good sign for both the patient and the doctor, we can observe the improvement right away, which is very reassuring.  Your symptoms may return, but with some time, we should be able to make them go away long term.

There are essentially no negative side effects from acupuncture

Outside of some possible minor bruising or momentary discomfort, there are no negative side effects from acupuncture. The same is not true for the drugs used for migraine.  First the over the counter drugs; such as the very popular Excedrin Migraine or Advil Migraine and the generic pain relievers; ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin.  These are not safe just because they are available without a prescription.  The most common side effect is abdominal pain and bleeding.  In addition, the ingredients: aspirin, and acetaminophen are known to cause rebound headaches!!!

Botox is a prescription treatment for migraine.  Here are the most common reported side effects from Botox: allergic reactions, rash, itching, headache (yikes), neck or back pain, muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath.  Then there are the triptans, the most well-known of these is Imitrex.  Side effects of triptans include: dizziness, fatigue, headaches (yikes again), tingling of the skin, dry mouth, hot flashes, chest pain.  Topamax is a drug that is prescribed to prevent migraine.  It often takes a while to become effective and also has significant side effects such as: tiredness, drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, numbness or tingling, coordination problems, diarrhea, weight loss.

The newest medication just released in May 2018 is Aimovig. This is also a drug used for prevention.  It is administered by injection once a month.  The annual cost is $6,900.  So far the reported side effects include: injection site reactions, cramps, muscle spasms, and constipation.

Acupuncture address the root cause of migraines, it is not a Band-Aid

None of the pharmaceutical treatments actually address the cause of migraines, they are not a cure, but a management technique, some would say a band-aid.  To resolve the cause of migraines requires a comprehensive whole-body method.  Acupuncture, along with life style approaches, possibly in conjunction with Chinese herbal medicine address the entire body with the goal of eliminating migraines all together.  Every patient is different, so each is evaluated, and a customized plan is developed.  Whether your migraines are related to stress, hormones, food or other triggers, a customized whole-body approach will optimize your health and function and allow you to live the pain free life you deserve.

Take care and live well

Ann

Harmony + Health Acupuncture

4020 N 20th St, Phoenix, AZ  85016, 602-955-5444