Headaches and Migraines

Head, shoulders, neck and Jaw, neck and Jaw…

When it's literally all in your head in Durango,

 Pain can be a very solitary experience.  Migraines show no physical evidence and the depth of their severity is often impossible to convey to co-workers, friends and family.  As the daughter of a chronic migraine sufferer, I learned to walk silently, speak softly, keep the lights down low and the music off.  Migraine medications do little to prevent and often leave you feeling drugged and dopey. 

Fortunately, Acupuncture provides a long term solution for many patients.  While I haven't been able to help everyone, I can safely say that the majority of my chronic headache sufferers have reported at least a 50% decrease in frequency.  I recently received this email from a patient. 

Hi Megan,
Thanks for checking up on me.  My improvement is almost 100%, I have had very few headaches since I came to see you!  I thank you so much for this as I had been having almost daily headaches for at least 15 years!  You have literally changed my life :)    Thanks again!   -RB

What your headache is trying to tell you

Perhaps your head is not the greatest communicator, but think of your headaches as a particularly obnoxious ambassador speaking for the rest of your body. 
 

Location, Location, Location       

In Tcm the very location of your headache can tell us what organs, meridians, family member, home improvement project or colleague is to blame.

Uncovering your headache horoscope
 
Forehead: Correlates to the Spleen and Stomach channels, indicating digestive issues, poor diet, excessive worry or dehydration.

Migraines:  Chronic blood deficiency or stagnation, usually accompanied by an underlying Liver/Kidney or spleen imbalance. 

Temples: Corresponds to Gallbladder/Liver channels,  indicating stress,frustration, indecisiveness, toxicity or the presence of a teenager in your home.

Heavy:  A headache that feels heavy like a towel wrapped around the head can evidence internal dampness or phlegm and pain.

Crown of the head: Can denote kidney and liver channel distress, often the result of high pressure, demanding lifestyles or premature aging.  

Structural: Headaches emanating from the base of the skull can signal issues with the cervical vertebrae, scm, scalene or trapezius muscles. 

Depending on the personality of your headache, specific points along the affected channels as well as specific neuro Acupuncture points on the scalp are needled to bring the affected organ and meridian system back into balance.  Depending on the root of the issue, moxibustion, cupping and specific Chinese herbal formulas are prescribed to help sustain the treatment. We’ll also look investigate your diet, posture, lifestyle and underlying conditions to help pinpoint the root cause of your headaches. Schedule your appointment at Durango Acupuncture Clinic today!