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Reduce Headache Frequency And Severity With These Alternative Therapies

12 January 2016

Edward Payne

If you suffer from frequent headaches but prescription medications do not seem to help, then perhaps it is time to take a different approach. There are several alternative therapies that show promise in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches.

Be sure to see your doctor to rule out any serious causes of headaches, such as brain tumors, before committing yourself to these therapies. Also, understand that, like prescription medications, they do not work for everyone. However, if you approach them with an open mind, there's a good chance you'll have positive results.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been a vital component of Chinese medicine for many years, and western medicine is beginning to be more supportive of this therapy. It involves inserting tiny needles into various parts of the body; these needles are supposed to re-direct the flow of energy through the body, promoting healing.

Acupuncture has been used to treat a wide array of medical conditions, and studies indicate it may be effective in treating migraines and other headaches. It is thought that altering the flow of energy through the body can affect the function of the nervous system, interrupting the pain signals associated with headaches and also reducing the stress that contributes to them in many patients.

When using acupuncture to treat headaches, practitioners will generally insert needles into the lower portion of the body, rather than in the neck and head. This helps them avoid dilating the blood vessels in the head, which may make headaches worse. Expect to be in a reclined position while being treated. Also, note that it may take several treatments until you notice a marked reduction in headache severity or frequency.

Chiropractic Adjustments

A large number of headaches can be attributed to tension in the neck and back. If you work an office job that requires you to sit for a long time, chances are you spend a lot of time with your head in one position -- and this can cause muscle irritation in the neck and back that eventually leads to headaches. By adjusting the spine, your chiropractor can ease this muscle tension, reducing the severity and frequency of your headaches. An adjustment can also make it easier for you to maintain proper posture, which will serve to further reduce your neck tension and headaches.

In addition to using gentle pressure to push your vertebrae back into alignment, your chiropractor may show you some exercises you can do to ward off a headache when you feel it coming on. Some chiropractors may even offer nutritional advice; increasing your B vitamin intake, in particular, may help chase away headaches.

Aromatherapy

If you are looking for a natural therapy you can perform in the comfort of your own home, then aromatherapy is a good choice. There are several essential oils that are said to help treat headaches.

• Lavender essential oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a sedative, so it will help relax you and keep a headache from getting worse.
• Eucalyptus essential oil is great for sinus-related headaches, since it not only relieves inflammation but also encourages the release of mucous.
• Peppermint essential oil is a good choice if you think your headaches are related to stress, as it helps to relax muscles and alleviate tension.

To use essential oils for aromatherapy, simply add a few drops to a diffuser apparatus. The scent will permeate your room and help alleviate a headache or stop one that you feel might be coming on. 

You can also visit a massage therapy clinic that practices aromatherapy, to reap the additional benefits of stress relief and massage in addition to the essential oils.

The great thing about these therapies is that you can combine them for even greater effects. All are safe and natural, so there's really no worry of side effects. Be patient; you should have the headache relief you crave soon.

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