Acupuncture and Migraines

Migraine headaches still aren't clearly understood by Western Science. For years, doctors and scientists thought that migraine headaches were vascular spasms, but recent research suggests that migraines are caused by functional changes to the nervous system, specifically the trigeminal nerve, and imbalances in brain chemicals.

The latest theory is that seratonin levels drop suddenly, causing the body to release neuropeptides, which bind to the trigeminal nerve covering and cause pain. Once the peptides have bonded, the blood vessels become enflamed.

Migraines are often triggered by changes in estrogen levels. Many women report migraines as part of PMS, or during the first week of their periods. Some have a higher incidence of migraines during pregnancy or menopause, or when taking birth control pills. Other migraine triggers include changes in sleep patterns, vigorous exercise, bright lights and certain foods.

Even though the causes of migraines are not yet clearly known, acupuncture proved as good as prescription medications in reducing the length and severity of migraine headaches.

In a German study performed in 2006, the same proportion of participants experienced relief of symptoms in both the acupuncture group and the medication group. In fact, the study showed a slightly better result for traditional acupuncture: 47 percent of participants felt better 50 percent of the time, as compared to 40 percent of the medication group.

Experts in the field suggested that the conclusions drawn meant that there is no "one size fits all treatment" for migraine sufferers, but the possibility does exist to like a happier, healthier and less painful life using natural medicine.