Migraines affect millions of people worldwide and can have a profound impact on daily life. Unlike ordinary headaches, migraines often come with throbbing pain, sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and sometimes aura. While medication helps some people, side effects or limited relief often leave sufferers looking for alternatives.
One option supported by growing clinical evidence is acupuncture. If you’re considering treatment, here’s what the research shows.
What the Studies Show
A number of high-quality studies suggest that acupuncture can reduce both the frequency and severity of migraines:
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis found that acupuncture reduced migraine pain, shortened attack duration, and decreased the number of migraine days per month compared to medication (PubMed).
A meta-analysis of 19 randomised controlled trials showed that acupuncture was more effective than standard drug therapy in reducing migraine frequency and intensity, with more patients achieving at least a 50% reduction in migraine days and fewer side effects (PubMed).
A randomised clinical trial with 50 participants found that patients receiving real acupuncture experienced significantly fewer migraine days, reduced pain intensity, and better long-term outcomes than those given sham acupuncture (Full Text).
Why Acupuncture Might Help Migraines
Research points to several ways acupuncture can make a difference:
Pain modulation: Acupuncture influences neurotransmitters and reduces pain-related neuropeptides in the body (Journal of Pain Research).
Improved blood flow: It may regulate cerebral blood circulation, which is often involved in migraines (PubMed).
Stress reduction: Acupuncture supports nervous system balance, reducing one of the most common migraine triggers.
Acupuncture Near Me
I offer tailored migraine treatments at two London locations:
Acupuncture in Chiswick – Chiswick Acupuncture Clinic (Mondays, Wednesdays, and alternate Fridays/Saturdays)
Acupuncture in Clapham – Light Centre Clapham (Tuesdays, Thursdays, alternate Fridays)
Each treatment plan is personalised, with progress tracked over time to help reduce the intensity, frequency, and duration of your migraines.
Booking is simple: you can book online here or contact me directly if you’d like to discuss your symptoms before scheduling.
Final Thoughts
Migraines can feel overwhelming, but acupuncture offers a safe, evidence-backed option that many people find effective. With regular sessions, patients often notice fewer migraine days, reduced intensity, and an overall improvement in quality of life.
If you’re based in West or South London and are considering acupuncture in Chiswick or acupuncture in Clapham, I’d be happy to discuss how treatment could support you.