Headaches and Migraines

Headaches and migraines cause severe pain in your head, affecting your everyday tasks and, in many cases, your entire day. Expert acupuncturist Ting Wu, DACM, L.Ac, at NYC Acupuncture + Wellness in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, New York, has the expertise and experience to provide the relief you need. If you suffer from headaches and/or migraines, you can rely on Dr. Wu for the traditional medicine techniques of China, Japan, and Korea, along with Western medicine treatments. Call for an evaluation or book an appointment online today.

What is the difference between headaches and migraines?

Headaches involve any type of pain in your head that can vary by type, intensity, and cause. The most common types are tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraines.

Migraine is a severe headache disorder that can last 4-72 hours when untreated. Its debilitating effect can negatively impact your everyday life. 

What are the symptoms of headaches and migraines?

Common issues you might experience with headaches and migraines include:

• Dull ache in your head
• Severe head pain
• Pain on one side of your head
• Painful throbbing sensation
• Sensitivity to light or sound or both
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Visual disturbances

Before the onset of a migraine, you might experience blurred vision, see zigzag lines, or see spots that resemble stars.

What triggers headaches and migraines?

Common headache and migraine risk factors include:

• Certain medications
• Hormone changes in women
• Alcohol 
• Caffeine
• Bright lights
• Food additives
• Physical exertion
• Dehydration
• Sleeping problems
• Menstruation
• Family history of migraines

You can reduce the risk of developing headaches and migraines by eating healthy foods, avoiding alcohol, and drinking plenty of water.

How are headaches and migraines treated?

As an expert acupuncturist at NYC Acupuncture + Wellness, Dr. Wu treats headaches and migraines with acupuncture by placing tiny needles in different pressure points, typically in your head and neck area. 

As the needles penetrate your skin, your body releases endorphins and hormones that stimulate your circulatory system, which balances your energy flow (qi) and weakens your head pain.

Dr. Wu aims to treat the root problem rather than the symptoms. For example, if you have sharp pain in fixed locations in your head or if you have brain fog and a loss of memory, she may determine that blood stagnation is the cause and treat you accordingly.

Dr. Wu may also incorporate herbs and massage to treat headaches and migraines. Though she uses Eastern medicine techniques to promote wellness, she may also collaborate with Western medicine professionals to pursue the highest level of care for you. 

If you suffer from headaches, migraines, or both, turn to NYC Acupuncture + Wellness for thorough and superior treatment. Reach out to the friendly staff today by phone or click the online scheduling tool to book an appointment now.