Migraines are one of the most debilitating conditions I see in my Bath clinics. Patients often arrive having tried everything – medication, lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments – and are looking for something that addresses not just the headache itself, but the underlying pattern that keeps bringing it back.
This is where acupuncture can make a real difference.
What does acupuncture do for migraines?
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, migraines are rarely just a head problem. They’re often connected to imbalances elsewhere in the body – liver qi stagnation, blood deficiency, or an underlying pattern of stress and tension that has built up over time. Acupuncture works by addressing these root causes, not just the symptoms.
From a Western perspective, there is a growing body of clinical evidence supporting acupuncture for migraine prevention. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) includes acupuncture as a recommended treatment option for chronic headache and migraine in its guidelines.
What can you expect from treatment?
Every patient is different, and I always begin with a detailed consultation to understand your individual pattern – how often your migraines occur, what triggers them, where the pain sits, and how it affects your daily life.
Most patients find that a course of weekly acupuncture sessions begins to reduce both the frequency and intensity of their migraines. Some notice a difference after just a few sessions; for others it takes longer, particularly where the condition has been present for many years.
As well as acupuncture needles, I may use additional techniques such as cupping or moxibustion depending on what your body needs, and I’ll often suggest simple dietary or lifestyle adjustments that can support your treatment.
Could acupuncture help you?
If you’re struggling with migraines in Bath or the surrounding area and would like to explore whether acupuncture could help, I’d love to hear from you. I practice at two clinics – Camerton Clinic (BA2 0NY) and Calmer Rooms, Combe Down (BA2 5HX) – and am happy to answer any questions before you book.
