top of page

Acupuncture for Migraine and Headaches in Montreal

  • Jun 26
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jun 30

IN 30 SECONDS Primary headaches are among the conditions where acupuncture has a relatively solid evidence base — not a single study, but Cochrane reviews pooling dozens of randomized trials, plus an official recommendation from the UK's NICE. The effect is clear versus no preventive treatment, and smaller but real versus sham acupuncture. It is a sensible preventive option, especially when medication is poorly tolerated. In Plateau-Mont-Royal, 7 days a week.

First: what kind of headache do you have?

Not all headaches are alike, and the strategy differs. Broadly: tension-type headache (a band-like tightness, often stress- or posture-related), migraine (throbbing, often one-sided, with nausea or light sensitivity), and cervicogenic headache (starting in the neck). A proper assessment comes first.

What the science actually shows

For episodic migraine

The Cochrane review (Linde et al., 2016) pooled 22 randomized trials and 4,985 participants. Versus no preventive treatment, acupuncture roughly doubles the share of people whose attack frequency is at least halved (41% vs 17%). Versus sham acupuncture, the benefit is small but statistically significant, and acupuncture may be at least as effective as preventive drugs — with fewer dropouts from side effects. Overall evidence quality: moderate.

For tension-type headache

The companion Cochrane review (Linde et al., 2016) pooled 12 trials and 2,349 adults. Versus usual care, responders rose from 19% to about 48%; versus sham, a modest but significant edge remained (51% vs 43%). Evidence quality: moderate again.

The official recommendation

The UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which sets NHS clinical guidance, recommends in guideline CG150 considering a course of up to 10 acupuncture sessions over 5–8 weeks for the prophylaxis of chronic tension-type headache and migraine.

How acupuncture works — what we know, what we suppose

Here it helps to be frank: we know the clinical results (measured in trials) better than the exact biological mechanisms behind them. Research points to several plausible pathways — modulation of pain-processing networks, release of endogenous opioids, effects on the autonomic nervous system — but none is definitively established as the single explanation. The honest line: the “does it work, and how much” is better documented than the “why.”

A realistic treatment plan

These are common clinical orders of magnitude, aligned with what trials use and with the NICE recommendation. They are markers, not promises — each case differs.

  • Episodic migraine: typically 1 session per week for 6 to 8 weeks.

  • Frequent tension-type headache: 1 session per week for 6 to 8 weeks, often alongside postural or physiotherapy work.

  • Review point: after 4 to 6 sessions we take stock — if frequency and intensity are down by at least 30%, we continue; if nothing has moved, we reassess or refer.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR WITHOUT DELAY • A sudden, severe “worst headache of my life,” a headache after head trauma, or one with fever, stiff neck, confusion, weakness or vision loss: seek urgent medical care. • A clearly new or changing headache pattern, especially after age 50, warrants medical assessment first. Acupuncture is for primary headaches once red flags are ruled out. When in doubt, see your physician or call Info-Santé 811. This section informs; it does not replace medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

How long before I feel an effect?

Most people notice a change within the first 2 to 4 sessions; the preventive effect on attack frequency usually settles between the 4th and 8th session.

Can I keep taking my medication?

Yes. Acupuncture is used alongside your treatment; we never change your medication without your physician.

Is it covered by insurance?

Receipts are issued on site for most private insurers.

Sources

  • Linde K, et al. Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. Cochrane, 2016. PubMed

  • Linde K, et al. Acupuncture for the prevention of tension-type headache. Cochrane, 2016. PubMed

  • Vickers AJ, et al. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain: Update of an IPD Meta-Analysis. J Pain, 2018. PubMed

  • NICE. Headaches in over 12s: diagnosis and management — CG150. Guideline

Book an appointment

If headaches are wearing you down, let's look at whether acupuncture fits your situation — alongside your medical care. First visit 1 h 30, follow-ups 70 min.

Book your consultation online → monacupuncteur.janeapp.com

In Plateau-Mont-Royal, open 7 days a week. Members of the OAQ and OPPQ. Insurance receipts issued on site.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page