Acupuncture for Migraines
and Headaches

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What is Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological condition characterized by intense headaches that often come with some additional symptoms, like sensitivity to light and sound or nausea. Headaches and migraines are not the same. In short, all migraines are headaches, but not all headaches are migraines. Migraines involve changes in brain activity that affect nerve communication, blood flow, and brain chemicals like serotonin. These changes contribute to the pain and other sensations associated with a migraine attack.

Migraines can vary greatly in duration and intensity, lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days, or even weeks, in rare cases. According to the NIH, 1.1 billion migraine attacks have been estimated as for 2019 worldwide, but the real number is likely much higher. Effective management usually involves a combination of lifestyle changes, preventive measures, and medical treatments.

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Types of Migraines

Migraines come in different forms and shapes, each with its own unique triggers. Understanding the types can help you find a more effective treatment. Here are the main types:

Migraine Without Aura

The most common type, characterized by intense headache pain without any warning signs. Symptoms may include nausea, light sensitivity, and throbbing pain on one side of the head.

Migraine With Aura

Includes warning symptoms before the headache, likes visual disturbances (flashing lights or blind spots), sensory changes, or difficulty speaking.

Chronic Migraine

Occurs 15 or more days per month, with at least 8 days involving migraine-specific symptoms. Often linked to long-term triggers or ineffective management.

Vestibular Migraine

Associated with dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues, with or without headache pain.

Hemiplegic Migraine

A rare form that includes temporary weakness or paralysis on one side of the body. It looks like a stroke along with other migraine symptoms.

Menstrual Migraine

Triggered by hormonal changes, typically occurring around menstruation.

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What Causes Migraines?

Migraines are caused by complex changes in brain activity that affect nerve signals, blood flow, and brain chemicals like serotonin. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood just yet, certain factors are known to trigger migraines. These include hormonal changes, like sudden fluctuations in estrogen levels, stress, irregular sleep patterns, and dietary factors like skipping meals or consuming certain foods and beverages (e.g., caffeine or alcohol).
Genetics also play a role, as migraines often run in families. Environmental factors, like bright lights, strong smells, or weather changes, can also be triggers. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers, along with appropriate medical care, can help manage the frequency and severity of migraines. In many cases migraines are triggered by a few different factors rather than just a single one.

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Common Signs and Symptoms of a Migraine

Migraines are usually more than just a severe headache, some of which can severely affect your daily life. Recognizing the symptoms can be the first step to proper treatment. Here are some of the most common migraine symptoms:

Throbbing or Pulsating Head Pain. Typically on one side of the head but can spread to both sides.
Sensitivity to Light and Sound. Bright lights and loud noises can make you feel even worse.
Nausea or Vomiting. Sometimes you might feel so “bad” that you feel nauseous or even vomit.
Aura. Visual disturbances, like flashing lights or blind spots, that may precede the headache.
Fatigue and Weakness. Often experienced during or after an episode, leaving you feeling drained.
Neck Stiffness or Pain. Can occur before or during the headache phase.
Cognitive Issues. Difficulty concentrating or speaking clearly during a migraine episode.

Still have questions about whether acupuncture is right for you?

Schedule a consultation here to find out!

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Benefits of Acupuncture
for Migraines and Headaches

Acupuncture for headaches is a natural and effective way to manage migraines and headaches. Acupuncture can offer both immediate relief and long-term results. It provides benefits that extend beyond just simple symptom management. Here are some of the most notable benefits:

Pain Reduction

Stimulates the release of natural painkillers (mostly endorphins), helping to ease migraine and headache pain.

Less Attacks

Regular head acupuncture sessions can reduce the number and severity of migraine episodes over time.

Stress Management

Deep relaxation and less muscle tension means less stress, which can contribute to migraines.

Better Circulation

Improves blood flow to the head and neck, which can lower tension and inflammation.

Fewer Side Effects

Unlike medications or more invasive procedures, acupuncture has way less side effects.

Better Sleep

Acupuncture for headaches and migraines addresses tension and discomfort, helping you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested.

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How Acupuncture Can Relieve Migraines and Headaches?

Acupuncture can effectively address migraines and headaches by targeting specific acupuncture points for migraines to address pain and underlying triggers. Acupuncture points for headaches improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and calm down the nervous system, which can both ease the intensity and frequency of migraine episodes.

Migraine acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins and other natural painkillers in the body, reducing the reliance on medications, which usually come with numerous side-effects. Acupuncture for headaches also helps ease tensed muscles which usually contribute to pain.

But consistency is very important. Consistent acupuncture for migraines can provide long-term results by addressing the root causes and preventing future episodes. But if you need consistent results, you need consistent acupuncture for migraines sessions.

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Acupuncture for Migraine and Headache Relief at Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL

At Copper Wellness in Chicago, IL, we pride ourselves in providing acupuncture for migraine and headache relief as part of our integrative health care. Our expert acupuncturists combine ancient Chinese medicine for migraines practices with modern knowledge to deliver high quality treatment. For even better results, we can combine acupuncture for migraines with chiropractic care.

Acupuncture therapy for headaches targets pressure points to reduce pain, improve blood circulation, and balance hormones, which all are linked to migraines and headaches. By addressing underlying causes we aim to provide long-lasting results in a holistic and natural way.
If you want to find lasting migraine and headaches relief, contact us today to see how our holistic therapies can help you feel your best!

About results

Reviews About Acupuncture for Migraines

Jose A Burgos

1 week ago

Genie

2 months ago

This was my third visit with Dr. Mimosa, and it has been such a reset for me. I am very thankful to be working with her. Her knowledge and care truly make a difference, and I always leave feeling more reset and noticeably better than when I walked in.

I carry a lot of tension in my neck and shoulders, especially after returning to work, and I feel it build up quickly. After each visit, the difference is noticeable. The tension improves significantly, and I leave feeling lighter and overall better.

What really stands out is how much she listens. From the first visit, she took the time to understand my lifestyle and stress, and I never felt rushed. That level of care makes a huge difference.

Going through a recent health complication put things into perspective for me. I realized I was moving through life too fast and putting myself last. Now I’m being more intentional about my health and managing my stress, especially with how demanding life can be. These appointments have been a key part of that.

I have also been using other services like pelvic floor therapy, acupuncture (soon to be appt), and massage, and everyone has been incredibly kind and welcoming.

I am really grateful I found Copper Wellness.

Christopher Jacob

2 months ago

My wife and I had been searching for a chiropractic office that felt modern, intentional, and aligned with the kind of lifestyle we’re building, not just for ourselves, but together. After doing some research, we came across Copper Wellness, and it turned out to be exactly what we were looking for.

We wanted something in the city, close to home, and in an area where we could turn our appointments into something more, like grabbing coffee or enjoying a date night after. This location checked all of those boxes.

From the moment you walk in, the energy is different. The space is beautiful, full of plants, warm earth tones, wood elements, and subtle aromatherapy. It feels calming, elevated, and intentional. Even the small touches, like complimentary water, make a difference. It genuinely reflects the kind of environment we value in our own home.

The staff is diverse, welcoming, and you can tell they truly enjoy what they do. That energy carries throughout the entire experience.

Dr. Mimosa is incredible. She is knowledgeable, experienced, and most importantly, she really listens. Every visit feels personalized, and she takes the time to understand exactly what we need. That level of care is rare and deeply appreciated.

I also want to give a genuine shoutout to Dr. Mimosa, the practitioners at Copper Wellness, and the entire staff. Everyone plays a part in making this place feel as special as it does.

Booking is seamless, whether online, by phone, or through their waitlist system. Everything feels efficient and thoughtfully designed.

We’re both genuinely happy we found this place. It exceeded our expectations in every way. Thank you for choosing Chicago and creating such a special space. We’re looking forward to many more visits and hope you remain part of the neighborhood for years to come.

Oh yeah and one more thing! Happy 1st day of Spring!!!

Christopher & Genesis
🌺🐈✨️📿👋🏼❤️

Esteban Espinoza

3 months ago

I started going to Copper Wellness around the beginning of 2023. I was having so much issues with my body physically, emotionally, and mentally. I had problems such as a stress ulcer in my stomach, constant anxiety, and restlessness. When I met Dr.Stephanie for my first consultation I let her know what was going on in all aspects of my health and she had a 6 week program to help me get back on track. This 6 week program included getting sessions from Dr. Adam my chiropractor. During this whole 6 week program I saw a tremendous improvement on my health to a point that I wasn’t having any pain in my stomach no more and that my body/mind were so relaxed. This included the recommended supplements I was referred to take outside of the office as well. I cried because I didn’t think I could get better since I went to doctors/ hospital visits and that all they said it was stress. I thought I had no hope of getting better but Copper Wellness put me on the right track. Even after the 6 week program I kept on going for constant maintenance for my physical/mental health. Every time I left a session with Dr. Stephanie I felt like a new person. She always heard me out and I felt like I wasn’t just another client. I felt like I was heard and that I had someone to be on my corner to help me out. Throughout my time there since 2024-2025 I have been helped with the best doctors there and knew I can always count on them to get better if I was hurting. Practices such as acupuncture, cupping, and chiropractor work always helped me in different parts of my health issues. Such as, back pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, anxiety issues & stress.Dr. Mimosa , Dr. Anais Dr. Adam & especially Dr. Stephanie. I appreciate you all so much and I am forever grateful for y’all on getting me back to a good healthy foundation.

Lawrence Nwajei

6 months ago

I cannot recommend Dr. Madden enough. Every visit leaves me feeling lighter, calmer, and more in tune with my body. She listens closely, remembers the details that matter, and truly cares about my wellness journey. I have seen real improvements since starting treatment. The space is always clean, relaxing, and welcoming. If you are considering acupuncture, look no further. She is the best and I am so grateful to have found her.

Shalini C

6 months ago

This is THE spot for wellness care. I've been seeing Adam, Stephanie and Bencia for neck, back and joint care for several years now. Each of them start by asking what's going on with my body and life stresses, then focus on an action plan for each session. They also offer tips on how to maintain those benefits between visits.

Alyssa Byron

7 months ago

I am so grateful for Copper Wellness. Dr. Mohr is the kind of clinician you want (and need) when it comes to restoring your health. As someone who has been navigating the sometimes difficult and painful path of autoimmune dysfunction, it makes all the difference to have not just a knowledgeable, but a deeply empathetic and caring clinician guide you along the way. My sessions are never rushed, always informative, and the space exudes a healing energy.

Franklin Eruo

8 months ago

Dr. Madden is absolutely exceptional. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the calm, healing energy of the space. She takes the time to really listen, understand your concerns, and tailor each session to your needs.

Whether you’re new to acupuncture or have been going for years, Dr. Madden’s expertise and gentle technique make all the difference. She explains everything clearly and creates an environment that feels safe and restorative. I can’t recommend her highly enough. she’s truly the best in her field here in Chicago.

Marianna Campbell

12 months ago

I have been going to Copper Wellness for nearly 4 years and cannot say enough good things about the clinic and all of their providers. Dr. Madden is a truly exceptional acupuncturist. I worked with her almost weekly during my first pregnancy and postpartum, and now for my second pregnancy, and she has been such a blessing with hormone health, stress and anxiety management, digestion, and sleep. She has the most amazing presence and all of her guidance has always been spot on. I also saw Dr Mohr during my first pregnancy to help with pregnancy aches and pains and pelvic positioning - he is also wonderful, so knowledgeable and kind and helped relieve a lot of my physical symptoms during that time. I’ve gone to Benicia for massage too and she is one of the best! (and I’ve seen a lot of massage therapists in my life)

I am moving from Chicago soon and truly going to miss this amazing clinic.

Response from the owner 12 months ago

Dear Marianna,Thank you so much for your kind words and for being with us all these years. We're honored to have supported you through both pregnancies. Dr. Madden, Dr. Mohr, and Benicia will be touched by your feedback. Wishing you all the best in your move — you'll always be part of the Copper Wellness family!

Jack Rieke

1 year ago

Dr. Mohr helped me tremendously with lower back pain and SI joint pain years ago and I still use the exercises he provided me to sustain feeling better. He used multiple techniques and movement based therapies to improve my ability to bend and lie down without pain.