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Acupuncture Benefits for Migraine Headaches

Gentle, evidence-based migraine relief in Fort Lauderdale


Migraines can be life-altering — disrupting work, sleep, and daily life. While medication helps some people, others experience side effects, limited relief, or rebound headaches. At Soul Acupuncture & Herbal in Fort Lauderdale, we specialize in a holistic, evidence-based approach that supports your nervous system, circulation, and stress response — the root patterns often linked to migraine activity.


Modern research and ancient medicine both recognize acupuncture as a safe and effective method to reduce migraine frequency, duration, and intensity.


Woman with Migraine

Can Acupuncture Really Help Migraine Headaches?


Yes. A strong body of evidence shows that acupuncture can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. A systematic review of 22 clinical trials (4,985 participants) found that acupuncture reduced headache frequency by 50% or more in up to 59% of people, with effects lasting more than six months (American Migraine Foundation).


A meta-analysis of 20 randomized trials (n = 3,380) concluded that acupuncture is superior to sham acupuncture and comparable to prophylactic drug therapy, but with significantly fewer adverse events (Fan et al., 2020, Journal of Neurology).


Similarly, a comprehensive review of systematic studies confirmed that acupuncture not only reduces the number of migraine days but also decreases medication use and improves overall quality of life (Li et al., 2020, Pain Research & Management).



How Does Acupuncture Work for Migraines?


Traditional Chinese Medicine views migraine as an imbalance in the flow of qi — energy — along the body’s meridians. Acupuncture restores balance by stimulating precise points that regulate circulation and calm overactive nerve pathways.


From a Western neurophysiological perspective, acupuncture stimulates sensory nerves and activates brain regions responsible for pain modulation. Studies show that it:

  • Releases endorphins and serotonin (natural pain-relieving neurotransmitters)

  • Regulates calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), which is linked to migraine onset (Alliance Orthopedics)

  • Improves blood flow and oxygenation in pain-sensitive areas of the brain

  • Promotes parasympathetic relaxation, reducing stress — a known migraine trigger

These combined effects may explain why many patients report relief not just from pain, but also from the tension, nausea, and fatigue associated with migraine episodes (Urits et al., 2020, Pain & Therapy).


Acupuncture Treatment

Acupuncture for Migraine: What the Research Shows

  • Reduces migraine frequency and intensity by 50% or more in most trials

  • Comparable or superior to preventive medications

  • Fewer side effects and longer-lasting benefits

  • Improves quality of life and reduces medication overuse headaches

  • Effective for both episodic and chronic migraine types



What to Expect at Soul Acupuncture & Herbal


Each treatment plan is customized based on your body’s unique pulse and presentation. During your session, fine sterile needles are placed in points known to calm the nervous system and improve circulation through the head, neck, and shoulders.


You may feel a light tingling or deep sense of relaxation as your body releases stored tension. Most people experience cumulative results after a series of 6–10 sessions, as confirmed by both clinical research and patient experience (American Migraine Foundation).


In addition to acupuncture, your practitioner may recommend Chinese herbal medicine, gentle nutritional adjustments, or stress management practices to help sustain results between sessions.


Pulse Diagnosis at Soul Acupuncture

Safety and Side Effects


When performed by licensed practitioners, acupuncture is extremely safe. Mild bruising or temporary soreness can occur at needle sites, but serious complications are rare. Studies have shown that acupuncture has a significantly lower adverse event rate than preventive medications (Molsberger, CMAJ).


At Soul Acupuncture & Herbal, all treatments are provided by board-certified acupuncture physicians using sterile, single-use needles in a calm, private setting.



Our Fort Lauderdale team


Meg Frodel, AP, LAc, HHC

Meg Frodel, AP, LAc, HHC

Acupuncture Physician • Licensed Acupuncturist • Holistic Health Counselor 


Meg’s path to integrative medicine began with overcoming a serious neurological challenge as a teenager. Over the years she has taught and practiced cranio-sacral unwinding, medical qigong, yoga, meditation, and food energetics. She directed corporate wellness in NYC for a decade, then trained deeply in Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine and pulse diagnosis, treating thousands of complex cases.



Eduardo Velasco Valido, AP, LAc, PT (Spain)

Eduardo Velasco Valido, AP, LAc, PT (Spain)

Acupuncture Physician • Licensed Acupuncturist • Physiotherapist (Spain) 


Eduardo blends physiotherapy, Thai medical massage, and Chinese medicine into a uniquely effective style. Trained across Europe and Asia—including years of study in Thailand—and holding a Master’s in Acupuncture & Eastern Medicine (OCOM, Portland), he refined high-volume clinical skills under renowned herbalist Bob Doane.


Serving the Fort Lauderdale area, including Wilton Manors, Victoria Park, and Coral Ridge, Meg and Eduardo provide comprehensive care rooted in both Eastern and Western medical traditions.



Conditions We Treat


Our Fort Lauderdale clinic provides holistic support for:

  • Migraine and tension headaches

  • Stress and anxiety

  • Hormonal and menstrual imbalance

  • Sleep disorders

  • Chronic pain and fatigue

Each treatment plan begins with advanced pulse diagnosis to identify the underlying imbalance before customizing acupuncture and herbal therapy.



Frequently Asked Questions


Is acupuncture safe for migraines? 

  • Yes. When performed by licensed professionals, acupuncture is safe, with minimal side effects like temporary soreness or mild fatigue.

How many sessions will I need? 

  • Most patients benefit from a series of 6–10 treatments over several weeks, followed by maintenance sessions as needed.

Can I combine acupuncture with medications? 

  • Absolutely. Acupuncture complements standard migraine treatments and may allow gradual reduction of medication under your doctor’s supervision.

How soon will I notice results? 

  • Many patients feel relief after the first few sessions, with significant improvement typically by week four or five.



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