Can acupuncture help with headache?

Understanding Headaches: Causes, Types, and Relief with Acupuncture

Headaches are a common ailment affecting daily activities and quality of life.

I. Types of Headaches:

Tension Headaches: Result from stress, poor posture, or muscle tension, causing a dull ache on both sides of the head.

Migraines: Intense, throbbing headaches with sensitivity to light, sound, and nausea, triggered by hormonal changes, foods, or environmental stimuli.

Cluster Headaches: Excruciating pain around one eye, occurring in cycles.

Sinus Headaches: Caused by sinus congestion or infection, presenting as deep pain in the forehead, cheekbones, or nose.

II. Causes of Headaches:

Stress and Tension: Contribute to tension headaches.

Environmental Factors: Noises, lights, and odors can trigger headaches, especially migraines.

Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can cause headaches; staying hydrated is essential.

Caffeine Withdrawal: Gradual reduction helps mitigate withdrawal headaches.

III. Relief of Headaches with Acupuncture

Acupuncture effectively relieves headaches.

Muscles Related to Headaches

Muscle tension is a significant contributor to headaches. Key muscles include:

Trapezius Muscle: Tension leads to pain radiating to the base of the skull.

Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) Muscle: Tension causes pain spreading to the forehead and temples.

Suboccipital Muscles: Tightness causes pressure at the back of the head.

Temporalis Muscle: Tension from teeth grinding causes temple pain.

Levator Scapulae Muscle: Tension causes neck stiffness and pain radiating to the back of the head.

Acupuncture efficiently relieves muscle-related headaches.