There are 6 different kinds of TCM headache disorders, caused by 5 different vectors. Also there are issues like Migraine which belong to Bi Tong (painful obstructions), or tension headaches which belong to disorders of the channels.
You have headaches? The good news is TCM treats all of them fairly well. Effecting a cure for the migraines can be difficult because the condition is usually long term. It will require some serious time investment on your part to effect a cure. But the conditions are manageable with herbs and acupuncture.
The main formula for most headaches is Chuan Xiong Cha Tiao Wan, and we usually have it in stock. This is an excellent “cabinet medicine” and I recommend you have it to replace ibuprofen or tylenol (which is not an anti-inflammatory).
For tougher conditions, maybe caused by injury or chronic stress, we have custom formulas or other, classic formulas. Only by seeing you can we tell which is the most appropriate.
As for acupuncture and tuina, of course we use a variety of points to get to the source of the problem, as well as to treat the overall condition as presented (usually pain). We need to talk about diet, though, to really affect the condition long term.
As for acupuncture, the most appropriate expectation is to go on a weekly plan, 8 treatments and reassess is very likely the recommendation. If we get lucky the first time, great. If not, at least you know that it is typical to need more than a couple treatments. In the meantime hopefully you start herbs and really make headway on a daily basis. If you choose not to do herbs, then you need to expect to modify diet as well as do other exercises for the acupuncture to be ultimately effective.
Look forward to seeing you in here, you can book online or call in anytime, 859-533-0914
ps – it may be that we assign you some moxabustion to take home with you in some cold-induced headaches. More on moxa in a later installment!