Headaches vs. Migraines: What’s the Difference?

Headaches, especially tension headaches, are usually mild to moderate, often described as a dull or pressing sensation. They tend to be brought on by stress, poor posture, eye strain, or lack of sleep and usually last a few hours.

Migraines, on the other hand, are more intense. They may last for days and are often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, and visual disturbances. Migraines involve the dilation of blood vessels in the brain, triggering inflammation and pain signals that are much harder to ignore.

Common Migraine Triggers

While the root cause of migraines is still being studied, many people share similar triggers:

• Hormonal Shifts: Many women experience migraines around their menstrual cycle, during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause.

• Diet: Foods like alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and aged cheeses can act as triggers.

• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, poor sleep, dehydration, changes in weather, and even skipping meals can play a role.

Understanding your triggers can help you prevent future episodes and acupuncture can help regulate your body’s response to them.

How Acupuncture Helps

Acupuncture works by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and releasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Treatments are highly personalized, but many acupuncturists target key points known to relieve head and neck tension, promote relaxation, and calm the nervous system.

Here are six regions commonly targeted in acupuncture treatments for headaches and migraines:

1. Forehead Region

This includes the point between the eyebrows (often called the "Third Eye") and some points above the eye brows. These points help relieve tension headaches, sinus pressure, and eye strain.

2. Temple Region

A series of points around the temples and above the ears help reduce migraine intensity, especially pain located on the sides of the head.

3. Face Region

Points on either side of the nose help open the sinuses and reduce pressure from sinus-related headaches.

4. Neck Region

Points at the base of the skull, especially those near the top of the neck and back of the head, are commonly used to relieve migraines and tension headaches, as well as associated symptoms like dizziness and eye pain.

5. Hands

The "Union Valley" point, located in the webbing between your thumb and index finger, is well-known for easing headache pain, especially in the forehead and temples. It also helps release tension in the neck and shoulders.

6. Feet

On top of the foot, between the first and second toes, there’s a point that complements the hand’s Union Valley point. It’s often used to relieve headache pain, especially when related to stress or hormone imbalances.

Why Choose Acupuncture for Headache Relief?

Many people turn to acupuncture after years of relying on medications with limited relief or unpleasant side effects. What makes acupuncture different is its ability to treat the root causes of pain rather than just mask symptoms. It helps your body rebalance itself and become more resilient to triggers over time.

If you're tired of headaches holding you back, it may be time to try a different approach. Acupuncture offers a safe, natural, and proven path toward lasting relief.

Ready to start feeling better? Schedule your first acupuncture session and take the first step toward a clearer, pain-free day.