Acupuncture for Migraine and Headaches in Montreal
Acupuncture for migraine and tension headache: what Cochrane reviews and NICE actually show, how many sessions, and when to see a doctor. Plateau-Mont-Royal.
Clinically reviewed by Justin Lapointe, member of the OAQ · August 8, 2026
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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 17–19% to 48%; versus sham, a modest but significant edge remained (52% 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 (updated 2025) 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 one session per week, over a few weeks.
- Frequent tension-type headache: one session per week, often alongside postural or physiotherapy work.
- Review point: after the first few sessions we take stock together: what’s shifted and what hasn’t, in frequency, in intensity, in what you manage to do again. If nothing’s 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?
This varies from one person to the next, and no one can predict it in advance. What’s worth knowing before you start is that acupuncture here is a background treatment, not an instant painkiller: the course of care unfolds over time and is reviewed along the way.
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 75 to 90 minutes, follow-ups 60 to 70 minutes, depending on the practitioner.
Book your consultation online → monacupuncteur.janeapp.com
In the Plateau-Mont-Royal, open 7 days a week. OAQ member · OPPQ member. Receipts issued on site.
In the Plateau-Mont-Royal, open 7 days a week. Acupuncturists · OAQ members, physiotherapist · OPPQ member. Insurance receipts issued on site.Our content follows a published editorial methodology.