Acupuncture can be a complementary treatment for people with acute or chronic Sinus Headaches
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique within traditional East Asian medicine, originating over 2,000 years ago. The procedure involves inserting extremely fine, sterile needles, measuring only 0.25 millimeters in diameter, into specific points on the body called acupoints.
From a Western medicine perspective, acupuncture stimulates the body’s production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers, as well as release of melatonin, which promotes relaxation and elevates positive mood responses.
Acupuncture can relieve chronic pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, migraines and carpal tunnel syndrome.
For headaches and sinus headaches specifically, an acupuncturist will place needles in various pressure points, including those on your head and neck. The needles release endorphins and other hormones, stimulating the circulatory system—a part of what helps weaken headache pain.
Acupuncture is a highly effective treatment for sinus headaches. It can help to unblock nasal passages and promote sinus drainage, providing relief from the pain and discomfort associated with sinus headaches.
Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture is generally not painful and often induces a sense of relaxation in patients.
The Acupuncture Treatment Process for Headaches
A comprehensive acupuncture session for headaches involves several steps:
- Detailed patient assessment: The practitioner conducts an in-depth conversation about the patient’s medical history, including headache characteristics, sleep patterns, mood, digestion, and menstrual cycles for women. This holistic approach enables the acupuncturist to develop a personalized treatment plan targeting the root causes of the headaches.
- Acupuncture treatment: The practitioner inserts fine needles into specific acupoints based on the patient’s individualized treatment plan. The needles are typically left in place for 20 to 40 minutes, during which time the patient may experience a deep sense of relaxation.
Acupuncture is a promising alternative treatment for common sinus issues, from headaches to congestion.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for Headaches
A growing body of research supports the efficacy of acupuncture for various types of headaches[1]Coeytaux RR, Befus D. Role of acupuncture in the treatment or prevention of migraine, tension‐type headache, or chronic headache disorders. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 2016 … Continue reading, including migraines, tension-type headaches, and chronic headaches:
- Migraine among adults: A 2017 randomized clinical trial published in JAMA Internal Medicine included nearly 250 adult participants with migraines without aura. The study revealed that acupuncture significantly reduced the frequency of migraine headaches compared to sham acupuncture and wait-list control groups[2]Zhao L, Chen J, Li Y, Sun X, Chang X, Zheng H, Gong B, Huang Y, Yang M, Wu X, Li X. The long-term effect of acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA internal medicine. … Continue reading.
- Pediatric migraine: A narrative review assessed the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture for treating migraines in children. The findings indicated that acupuncture is a viable and safe treatment option for pediatric patients.
- Tension-type headache: A review of eight systematic reviews analyzed the effectiveness of acupuncture for tension-type headaches. The results showed that acupuncture significantly reduced both the frequency and severity of tension-type headaches. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the poor quality rating of many reviewed studies.
- Chronic headache: A 2018 meta-analysis of 39 trials found acupuncture to be superior to sham acupuncture and no acupuncture/usual care for chronic headaches. This comprehensive analysis highlights the potential benefits of acupuncture in managing chronic headache conditions[3]Jiang Y, Bai P, Chen H, Zhang XY, Tang XY, Chen HQ, Hu YY, Wang XL, Li XY, Li YP, Tian GH. The effect of acupuncture on the quality of life in patients with migraine: a systematic review and … Continue reading.
Cost of Acupuncture and Insurance Coverage
The cost of acupuncture treatments can vary widely, depending on your location and the type of treatment you choose. In general, individual treatments can range from $60 to $150 per session. Unfortunately, not many insurance plans cover acupuncture, so it’s essential to check your benefits before beginning treatment. Medicare currently covers acupuncture for low back pain only.
How Many Treatments Are Needed?
The number of acupuncture treatments needed depends on the individual, severity of symptoms of sinus headaches and the progress they make during their sessions.
Generally, after four to six treatments, both the patient and the acupuncturist should have a clear understanding of whether the therapy is effective. If progress is evident, the frequency of treatments may be reduced.
If no improvement is observed, the acupuncturist may reassess the treatment plan or refer the patient to a different practitioner or back to their primary care provider for further evaluation of their sinus headache.
Do Acupuncture Benefits Last?
The benefits of acupuncture can persist even after treatment has concluded. While some patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms, many will continue to enjoy relief from their headaches or migraines. Acupuncture offers a gradual and steady improvement in symptoms, providing lasting benefits for many individuals.
Conclusion
Acupuncture has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment option for headaches and migraines. By finding a qualified and licensed acupuncturist, patients can experience relief from their symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
With various treatment options and the potential for lasting benefits, acupuncture is worth considering for those struggling with chronic headaches or migraines.
MD, PhD. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician from São Paulo - Brazil. Pain Fellowship in University of São Paulo.
References
| ↑1 | Coeytaux RR, Befus D. Role of acupuncture in the treatment or prevention of migraine, tension‐type headache, or chronic headache disorders. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 2016 Jul;56(7):1238-40. |
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| ↑2 | Zhao L, Chen J, Li Y, Sun X, Chang X, Zheng H, Gong B, Huang Y, Yang M, Wu X, Li X. The long-term effect of acupuncture for migraine prophylaxis: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA internal medicine. 2017 Apr 1;177(4):508-15. |
| ↑3 | Jiang Y, Bai P, Chen H, Zhang XY, Tang XY, Chen HQ, Hu YY, Wang XL, Li XY, Li YP, Tian GH. The effect of acupuncture on the quality of life in patients with migraine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2018 Oct 26;9:1190. |