migraine

Brief Description

Migraines, characterized by intense headaches often accompanied by nausea, visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light or sound, can severely disrupt daily life. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides a holistic approach to addressing migraines by not only relieving pain but also targeting the root causes, such as Qi stagnation, Blood deficiency, and internal imbalances, to prevent recurrence.

Common Misconceptions

  • Migraines are just severe headaches: Migraines are a complex neurological condition involving systemic imbalances that require more than just pain management.
  • Painkillers are the only solution: While painkillers may provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying issues, and frequent use can lead to rebound headaches.
  • Stress is the sole trigger: Migraines often have multifactorial causes, including diet, lifestyle, hormonal changes, and weather conditions, in addition to stress.
  • Only focusing on the head: Many overlook the connection between migraines and systemic issues, such as Liver Qi stagnation or Spleen deficiency, which require holistic treatment.

TCM Diagnosis

Typical Tongue

Typical Pulse

taut, fast in some cases

TCM Pathogenesis

In TCM, migraines are often attributed to an imbalance in the body’s Qi, Blood, and internal organs. Common patterns include:

1. Liver Qi Stagnation: Stress and emotional imbalance disrupt the Liver's role in ensuring the smooth flow of Qi, leading to headaches. 2. Blood Deficiency: Insufficient Blood fails to nourish the brain, resulting in recurring migraines. 3. Liver Yang Rising: Excessive Yang energy rushes upward due to Yin deficiency, causing sharp, throbbing pain often accompanied by dizziness. 4. Phlegm Obstruction: Accumulated dampness and phlegm obstruct the meridians, exacerbating migraines with nausea and heaviness.

TCM Treatment

General Principle

Regulate Qi and Blood: Acupuncture and herbal medicine help unblock Qi and Blood stagnation in the head and body. Subdue Liver Yang: Calm excessive Yang energy while nourishing Yin to maintain balance. Eliminate Phlegm and Dampness: Clear obstructions in the meridians and improve overall energy flow. Strengthen Deficient Systems: For chronic migraines, tonify the Spleen, Liver, and Kidneys to prevent future episodes.

Unique Therapies We Apply

  • Targeted Acupuncture: Specific points like Taiyang (EX-HN5) and Fengchi (GB20) alleviate headache pain by promoting Qi and Blood circulation in the head.
  • Ear Acupuncture: Stimulating ear points for the Liver, Spleen, and Kidney helps balance the body and relieve migraines.
  • Herbal Formulas: Custom prescriptions, such as Chai Hu Shu Gan San (柴胡疏肝散) or Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin (天麻钩藤饮), tailored to individual patterns.

Treatment Plan

  • Acute Migraine Phase: Focus: Immediate pain relief and calming excessive Yang or Qi stagnation. Frequency: Acupuncture 2 times per week, and/or herbal medicine until symptoms subside.
  • Recovery Phase: Focus: Address underlying imbalances, such as Blood deficiency or Liver Qi stagnation. Frequency: Acupuncture 1-2 times per week with daily herbal medication(optional).
  • Prevention and Maintenance: Focus: Strengthen deficient systems, balance Yin and Yang, and reduce recurrence. Frequency: Acupuncture once every 1-2 weeks with ongoing herbal therapy for 1-2 months.

Precaution

  • Manage Triggers: Identify and avoid common triggers, such as stress, irregular meals, and environmental changes.
  • Avoid Overworking: Physical and mental overexertion can exacerbate migraines; prioritize rest and balance.
  • Focus on Diet: Avoid greasy, cold, or overly rich foods that can create dampness or phlegm. Include nourishing, easily digestible meals.
  • Consistent Care: Chronic migraines require regular TCM treatments to address the root causes and achieve long-term relief.

Summary

Migraines are more than just headaches; they reflect deeper systemic imbalances that demand comprehensive treatment. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a personalized approach that combines acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments to relieve pain, address root causes, and prevent recurrence. By treating the body holistically, TCM empowers patients to take control of their health and find lasting relief.

TCM Dr. Ma

The Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment approaches outlined above are derived from my clinical experience, and I acknowledge there may be areas not fully covered or that require further refinement over time.

This content is intended to provide a learning reference for professionals and enthusiasts in Traditional Chinese Medicine and to help patients gain a better understanding of their conditions and common misconceptions.

However, I must emphasize that this information does not constitute specific treatment guidance. All TCM treatments must be tailored to the individual through thorough diagnosis by a qualified practitioner. Non-professionals should not attempt self-treatment based on this information, as any treatment conducted without professional supervision may carry potential safety risks.