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How Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Headaches

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Relieve headache pain naturally with acupuncture.

If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from headaches or migraines, you probably know that medicine and rest may not do the trick. This is why many people have turned to holistic healing approaches such as acupuncture to help relieve their pain.

If you’ve been struggling with headache pain and are searching for relief, Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax is here to help! Our highly skilled practitioners can address your headache pain with acupuncture treatments and other healing solutions.

Call us today to learn more and request an appointment!

What Are the Different Types of Headaches?

Most people will experience head pain every once in a while. However, there are several different types of headaches with their own causes, duration, and intensity. Our Halifax practitioners can help you identify which type of headache your symptoms are associated with.

  • Tension Headache: Tension headaches are a specific type of headache brought on by stress. Headache pain can vary depending on the individual and other health factors but is typically felt all over the body as an aching sensation. Some patients experience sensitivity or soreness around the forehead, neck, or shoulder muscles.
  • Exertion Headaches: Exertion headaches can happen abruptly after periods of strenuous physical activity. Common triggers for this type of headache include running, weightlifting, and doing aerobics. Exertion headaches commonly involve a moderate to severe throbbing sensation.
  • Migraine: Migraines are severe headaches that can cause throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. Classified as a neurological disorder, migraines are often accompanied by dizziness, nausea or vomiting, fatigue, and sensitivity to light, noise, or smell.
  • Cluster Headache: A cluster headache is relatively rare and includes a severe sharp or burning pain around one eye or side of the face. This type of headache is often associated with facial swelling, sweating, nasal congestion, drooping eyelids, and eye tearing.

How Can Acupuncture Help Headache Pain?

Acupuncture works to restore the flow of positive energy and remove negative energy that may be causing you pain. The technique releases trigger points by stimulating various systems of your body.

There are some theories on how acupuncture might help with headache pain, including:

  • Stimulating the body’s pain response: The needles used in acupuncture might stimulate the body’s pain response, leading to the release of endorphins and other naturally occurring pain-relieving substances. This could potentially numb the pain signal and reduce the perception of pain.
  • Regulating neurotransmitters: Acupuncture may influence the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which could affect pain signals sent to the brain.
  • Improving blood flow: By placing needles at specific points, acupuncture might increase blood flow to the tissues, which can help remove pain-causing substances.
  • Modulating the immune system: Some research suggests that acupuncture could modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, which could help alleviate headache pain.
  • Stress relief: Acupuncture may provide a relaxing effect, reducing stress and tension, which are common triggers for headaches.

What to Expect at an Acupuncture Appointment

The first acupuncture appointment can be intimidating. However, understanding what to expect can help you ease your nerves and get the most out of the experience.

Typically a session will begin with a comprehensive assessment in which your practitioner will address your health history and treatment goals. Our Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax acupuncturists will explain how the session will work and the benefits it will have for your headache pain.

If you are nervous or have concerns about the treatment, it’s important to share your thoughts with our specialists. Before your treatment, your acupuncturist will discuss the areas where needles will be inserted and how many they intend to use. We can offer advice and help you feel more comfortable during the session.

During treatment, your therapist will strategically insert acupuncture needles into specific points in your body. Sessions can last up to 60 minutes or slightly longer but may be as short as 20 minutes. Many people don’t feel acupuncture needles, but others may experience pressure, heat, or mild pain, which should dissipate shortly.

Find Relief at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre Today.

If your headaches are interfering with your daily functioning or affecting your mood, it’s important to discuss treatment with our team at Key Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Halifax. Your health and wellness is a top priority to us, which is why we strive to provide effective care plans with a holistic, patient-centered approach.

Call us today to schedule an appointment and get started!

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