Acupuncture for Migraines & Headaches
How Acupuncture Supports Relief from Migraines and Headaches
Around 10 million people in the UK live with migraine, with roughly 190,000 migraine attacks occurring every day. In Ireland, approximately 600,000 people experience the burden of migraine, many feeling dismissed or struggling to find effective relief beyond medication.
Acupuncture offers a different path. Rather than simply masking symptoms, it works with your body's natural systems to address the underlying patterns that make you vulnerable to attacks. NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) recommends up to 10 sessions of acupuncture over 5 to 8 weeks for migraine prophylaxis, particularly when medications haven't worked or aren't suitable.
After 16 acupuncture sessions, studies found the frequency of migraine attacks decreased by an average of 3.95 attacks. More importantly, many patients report not just fewer attacks, but less intense pain, faster recovery, and a newfound sense of control over their condition.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Experience the Benefits:
Reduces Migraine Frequency and Intensity
Research demonstrates that acupuncture can significantly reduce pain scores and decrease the number of migraine days, duration, and frequency of attacks. Clinical trials show it may work as effectively as conventional medications for many people, helping reduce how often attacks occur and how severely they affect you.
Calms Your Nervous System
Acupuncture stimulates nerves under your skin, leading to the release of endorphins and other pain-relieving substances. This helps regulate your autonomic nervous system—the part that governs your stress response and can trigger attacks.
Supports Better Sleep and Stress Management
Poor sleep and chronic stress are two of the most common migraine triggers.
Acupuncture addresses both by helping you achieve deeper rest and a calmer baseline state.
Works Alongside Your Current Treatments
You don't have to choose between acupuncture and medication. Many patients find that acupuncture helps them reduce their reliance on painkillers over time, whilst still having medication available when needed.
Your Treatment Plan
Typical programme structure: Most people benefit from 6–10 sessions initially, starting with treatments 1–2 times per week, then gradually spacing them out as improvements stabilise.
Treatment techniques may include:
Traditional body acupuncture targeting specific points related to head pain and nervous system regulation
Auricular (ear) acupuncture with tiny retention needles or acupressure seeds you can use at home
Gentle lifestyle and dietary guidance based on TCM principles
Optional enhancements: Cupping, red light therapy, or Chinese herbal consultation may be recommended to support your individualised needs.
Your First Visit
Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive health assessment to understand your headache patterns, triggers, and overall well-being. William will take your pulse and examine your tongue, key diagnostic tools in Traditional Chinese Medicine, to identify the underlying patterns affecting your condition.
You'll receive your first acupuncture treatment during this same visit, along with guidance you can use at home between sessions. Most people find the needles surprisingly comfortable; they're much finer than injection needles and relatively painless.
What to Expect
Between Sessions
You might notice subtle shifts after your first treatment, perhaps feeling calmer around food choices, sleeping more soundly, or experiencing less afternoon fatigue. Some people feel energised, whilst others feel deeply relaxed.
We'll provide simple self-care techniques, including acupressure points you can use at home and breathing exercises to support continued progress between visits.
Is Acupuncture for Migraines Right for You?
This Approach Works Particularly Well if You Experience:
Chronic migraines
Episodic migraine with or without aura
Tension-type headaches, especially those affecting the neck and shoulders
Stress-related or hormonal headaches
Desk-related strain and eye fatigue
Medication-overuse headaches
Disrupted sleep patterns affecting your willpower throughout the day
Important to Understand
Acupuncture works best in conjunction with, not instead of, sensible lifestyle habits. The most effective approach combines acupuncture support with sustainable changes that suit your circumstances.
Acupuncture is not suitable if you have certain bleeding disorders, active skin infections in treatment areas, or are pregnant (though we can safely treat many conditions during pregnancy with modified protocols). We'll discuss your medical history during your initial consultation to ensure treatment is appropriate for you.
Safety Considerations
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner, with adverse effects being rare.
All needles at AcuFusion are sterile and single-use.
William is registered with the Acupuncture Council of Ireland and carries full professional indemnity insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Acupuncture Help with Migraines and Tension Headaches?
Based on high-quality evidence, research concludes that acupuncture may be an effective and safe therapy for migraine. It's been shown to reduce the number of migraine days people experience in clinical trials. Many patients report fewer headache days and less intense symptoms. That said, individual results vary, and acupuncture should complement rather than replace medical advice from your GP or neurologist.
How Many Sessions Until I Notice a Change?
Most people notice subtle shifts within 3–4 treatments, with more substantial changes emerging over 6–10 sessions. Some individuals benefit from ongoing monthly maintenance treatments to prevent future attacks, whilst others find a focused course sufficient. We review your progress at session 3 and adjust your plan accordingly.
Is Acupuncture Safe With Migraine Medications?
Yes. Acupuncture can safely complement most migraine medications, including triptans, beta-blockers, and anti-inflammatories. Always inform both your GP and William about all medicines you're taking so we can coordinate your care effectively.
Ready to Suffer Less Again?
Book Your Sleep Appointment Today
New to acupuncture? We offer flexible rescheduling if your circumstances change, and there's never any pressure to commit to a long programme during your initial appointment.
Call us at 01 5240874 to schedule your appointment.
Why Trust Us?
With years of experience in migraine and headache acupuncture, we are committed to delivering personalised care tailored to your specific needs.
Expertise
Our clinic offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere where you can discuss your needs openly.
Professional Environment
Insurance Accepted
Treatments are recognised by major health insurers, making it easier for you to get the support you need.
Get started with AcuFusion, today
Have questions? We’re here to help! Reach out via phone or email, or visit our clinic for a friendly chat.