Headaches

Whether you experience minor headaches, or sever migraines, you are not alone. Headaches are draining, frustrating, and can take valuable time out of your day. Over the counter drugs can sometimes provide short-term relief, but most headache medications do not address the root cause of the headache. Furthermore, if used frequently, medication can cause unwanted side effects.

Types of Headaches

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, headaches can be caused by emotional health, excessive work, improper diet, physical trauma and hormones. They can also be diagnosed based on specific symptoms, the time in which they occur, where they occur within your body, the type of pain experienced, as well as the triggers that bring them on.

Identifying the Root Cause

Your practitioner will perform a physical exam, and will take a detailed history of your health to determine why your body’s Qi (vital energy) is out of balance. By identifying the type of headache you are experiencing, our acupuncturists will work to determine the root cause of your headaches, and apply effective care to address the root cause.

Below are a few ways that you can make simple lifestyle changes to help reduce headaches:

• Journal when your headaches occur. Was it something you ate, were you feeling stressed, or, perhaps was it a change in lighting that started your headache?

• Change your routine with your health in mind. Are you eating healthy, organic foods, and getting enough sleep each day?

• Exercise to release endorphins and reduce stress. This doesn’t mean you have to start running! These exercises can be structured to suit your needs and abilities.

• Reduce Stress in your life. Utilize techniques to help manage your stress, such as meditating, yoga, or deep breathing.