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Acupuncture & Tension Headaches

Hi. I got episodic tension headaches for 18 years now. I am 30. I get 6-8 per month. My headache patterns have changed. I noticed once in a while headaches will wake me from sleep or return later in the day after taking medication. Advil is the ONLY thing that works. As I hate being on Advil so much, I have tried chiropractors, stim machines, preventative meds and shots, hydration, eyeglasses, etc. I am now onto acupuncture. I have had 3 appointments in the past 9 days (recommended to be 2x week). I have had 2 headaches since. How long does acupuncture take to work for headaches? Thanks.

  1. Hi MK2019,

    Thank you for sharing that with us. I am sorry to hear you are in extended pain, that's so frustrating!

    I wish I could give you a solid answer on your question about acupuncture, but results vary from person to person. Did the clinician you are going to offer any insight?

    I have a few other thoughts I thought I'd share with you. If we take pain medication, whether it's over-the-counter or prescription, more than two to three days a week, it can increase our chances of getting into a rebound headache cycle. If this happens our head pain may be more difficult to treat. This link has lots of articles on rebound headache; https://migraine.com/?s=rebound.

    When our head pain symptoms and or patterns change, it's a good idea to let the doctor know so he can make sure everything checks out OK. If you haven't had a chance to speak with him I would encourage you to.

    Please let me know what you think!
    Nancy

    1. Hi. Thanks for your reply! I only take it 2x week and then can have anywhere from a 7-18 day break after a bad week or two. So I don’t think it’s MOH. However, I have tested clear for everything in the past. Hoping acupuncture works!

      1. Hi MK2019,

        My pleasure! Keep us posted on your progress!

        Nancy

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