Acupuncture for Headaches & Migraines
Headaches & Migraines Treatment
Acupuncture for migraines and headaches in Los Angeles. Nature Acupuncture & Herbs provides clinically proven treatment for chronic migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches.
About This Condition
Migraines and chronic headaches are among the most debilitating conditions affecting quality of life — and acupuncture is one of the most evidence-supported treatments available. Numerous clinical trials, including the landmark ACUART study, have demonstrated that a course of acupuncture reduces migraine frequency by 50% or more in the majority of patients, with effects that last well beyond the treatment period.
At Nature Acupuncture & Herbs, we treat all headache types: migraines with and without aura, tension-type headaches, cervicogenic headaches, cluster headaches, and hormone-related headaches. Each presents a distinct pattern that our practitioners address with individualized protocols.
How Does Acupuncture Help Headaches & Migraines?
Acupuncture modulates trigeminal nerve sensitization — the core neurological mechanism of migraine. It does this by stimulating endogenous opioid release, reducing levels of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the trigeminal pathway, and normalizing serotonin metabolism. CGRP is the same molecule targeted by modern CGRP-blocking migraine medications (Aimovig, Ajovy, Emgality) — meaning acupuncture produces similar effects through natural pathways.
For tension headaches, acupuncture releases the posterior cervical and suboccipital trigger points that refer pain into the head. For hormonal migraines, herbal medicine can be used alongside acupuncture to regulate the hormonal fluctuations that trigger attacks.
What to Expect at Nature Acupuncture
Your first visit includes a detailed headache history: frequency, duration, triggers, aura, associated symptoms, and medication history. Treatment involves needles at scalp points (particularly on the Gallbladder meridian), neck and upper back points, and distal points that have strong empirical and theoretical evidence for headache relief. Most patients with active migraines experience relief during the session itself. Preventive treatment — weekly sessions for 6–10 weeks — reduces headache frequency and severity over time.
Acupuncture for Headaches & Migraines
Available at all three Los Angeles locations - West LA, Hawthorne, and Lynwood.
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Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acupuncture effective for migraines?
Yes — acupuncture is one of the best-evidenced treatments for migraine prevention. A 2016 Cochrane Review of 22 trials (4,985 patients) concluded that acupuncture is at least as effective as prophylactic drug treatment for migraine and is associated with fewer side effects. The American Headache Society and National Headache Foundation both recognize acupuncture as an evidence-based option for migraine management.
How many acupuncture sessions does it take to reduce migraines?
Most patients with chronic migraines (4+ per month) experience a meaningful reduction in frequency after 6–8 weekly sessions. The typical preventive course is 10–12 sessions over 8–10 weeks, followed by monthly maintenance. Acute treatment of an active migraine can often interrupt or shorten an attack within a single session.
Can acupuncture stop a migraine in progress?
Yes. Acupuncture during the prodromal phase or early attack phase can often abort a migraine or significantly reduce its severity and duration. Specific points on the hands, feet, and scalp have rapid analgesic effects on trigeminal pain. We encourage patients with frequent migraines to come in at the earliest sign of an attack.
Does acupuncture work for tension headaches?
Acupuncture is highly effective for tension-type headaches, which are primarily muscular and fascial in origin. By releasing trigger points in the upper trapezius, cervical paraspinals, temporalis, and masseter muscles, acupuncture addresses the root cause of tension headache rather than masking it with analgesics. Most tension headache patients see rapid, durable improvement.
Can I use acupuncture alongside my migraine medication?
Yes. Acupuncture is complementary to both acute migraine medications (triptans, NSAIDs) and preventive medications (beta-blockers, topiramate, CGRP inhibitors). Many patients who begin acupuncture find they need their rescue medications less frequently as their baseline migraine activity decreases. Any changes to medication should be coordinated with your prescribing physician.
3
LA Locations
15+
Years Experience
Most
Insurance Accepted
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Ready to Treat Your Headaches & Migraines?
Book a new patient consultation at any of our three Los Angeles locations.