Acupuncture for Cluster Headaches
This pain relief technique uses thin needles inserted into specific points on the body, may offer relief for cluster headache sufferers. While more research is needed specifically on acupuncture for cluster headaches, studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce the frequency and intensity of other types of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines.
What Are Cluster Headaches?
Cluster headaches are a type of headache that cause severe, intense pain, usually on one side of the head, often around or behind the eye. These headaches tend to occur in clusters or cycles, with several attacks happening in a day over a period of weeks or months. The pain is often described as stabbing or burning, and it can last anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Other symptoms may include watery eyes, a stuffy nose, or restlessness during the attack.
Unlike migraines, which can be triggered by things like stress or certain foods, cluster headaches often come without warning and follow a more predictable pattern over time.
Can Acupuncture Help?
A 2012 clinical trial published in Cephalalgia found that acupuncture may reduce headache days and improve quality of life for those suffering from chronic headaches, suggesting potential benefits for cluster headache patients as well.
If you suffer from cluster headaches, acupuncture might be worth exploring as part of your treatment plan.
Suggestion of treatment frequency for cluster headaches
A clinical study on acupuncture for cluster headaches recommended treatment twice a week for two weeks, followed by one treatment per week for eight weeks, and maintenance treatments as needed. Acupuncture has also been found to reduce the frequency of headaches in individuals with migraines, with effects similar to those observed with preventive medications.
Studies on LI4 and Pain Relief
LI4 is one of the most studies points in acupuncture by modern science. According to the pain gate theory, acupuncture may generate impulses that block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. By stimulating specific points on the body, such as LI4, acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins that ease pain.
LI4 has been widely studied for its ability in reducing pain, including headache and migraines.
How Acupuncture Works to Relieve Pain
When the needles are inserted, they stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. This sends signals to the brain, which releases natural painkillers called endorphins. Acupuncture also improves blood circulation, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing in areas of pain.
For headaches and migraines, acupuncture targets points on the head, neck, and shoulders, which helps relax tight muscles, releases myofascia and improve blood flow to those areas. This reduces the severity and frequency of headache pain.
Studies back up acupuncture’s pain-relieving effects. A 2016 study published in The Journal of Headache and Pain found that acupuncture was more effective at reducing the frequency of migraines than usual care, with fewer side effects than medications. Another 2017 review in the Cochrane Database showed that acupuncture was beneficial in treating tension headaches, reducing their occurrence and intensity.
If you’re looking for a natural way to manage pain, acupuncture may be a great option to explore. It offers drug-free pain relief and can complement other treatments such as physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic. I'm a degree-qualified Acupuncturist, registered with AHPRA. I'm based on Sydney's Northern Beaches and have been in private practice since 2003.
To make an appointment for a consultation to discuss your headaches, click here.
More reading about Headaches and Pain:
Acupuncture for Headache relief
Migraines: Can Acupuncture help?
Chinese Medicine strategies to ease Migraines
