Where Can I Get Acupuncture for Migraines in Jacksonville?
Full Swing Healthcare on Beach Blvd in Jacksonville offers acupuncture for migraines performed by Dr. Muren, a certified acupuncturist who addresses both the cervicogenic and autonomic components that drive most chronic migraine presentations.
A patient came to us who had been managing migraines for twelve years. She averaged three per month, each lasting 12 to 24 hours, and had tried multiple preventive medications with partial success. A neurologist had mentioned acupuncture as an option with evidence behind it for migraine prevention. She was skeptical but willing. Dr. Muren assessed her and found a significant cervicogenic component to her migraines, with upper cervical restriction at C1-C2 and suboccipital trigger points that were contributing to the pain pattern. He also identified a strong stress-autonomic relationship. He ran a combined protocol of cervical chiropractic adjustment and acupuncture targeting the suboccipitals, liver meridian, and autonomic regulation points. Over two months her migraines dropped from three per month to one. Over four months she had two migraines total. She was still on her preventive medication and credited the combination for the change.
How Acupuncture Helps with Migraines
Acupuncture influences migraine physiology through several mechanisms. It modulates the trigeminovascular system, which is the primary pathway for migraine pain. It regulates the autonomic nervous system, reducing the sympathetic dominance that precedes and accompanies many migraine attacks. It reduces cortisol and stress hormones that lower the migraine threshold. And for patients with a significant cervicogenic component, it releases the suboccipital and cervical trigger points that trigger and amplify migraine attacks. The World Health Organization and multiple systematic reviews support acupuncture for migraine prevention as a treatment with evidence comparable to preventive medications, without the side effects.
What the Treatment Approach Looks Like
Dr. Muren assesses whether your migraines have a cervicogenic component, a strong autonomic and stress component, or both. Most patients have elements of both. Needle placement is selected based on your specific pattern. Cervical and suboccipital needle points address the structural trigger. Distal points on the hands, feet, and forearms address the vascular and autonomic regulation component. Sessions run 30 to 40 minutes including the assessment. For patients with significant cervical restriction, chiropractic adjustment is combined with the acupuncture protocol for faster and more complete results.
How Many Sessions to Expect
Most migraine patients begin to notice reduced frequency or severity within four to six sessions. A meaningful course of preventive treatment runs eight to twelve sessions. Many patients return for monthly maintenance once their frequency is well-controlled. Acupuncture for migraine prevention is a long-term strategy, not a one-session fix.
Insurance and Scheduling
We accept Florida Blue, United Healthcare, Humana, Cigna, Florida Medicaid, and VA benefits. Coverage for acupuncture varies by plan. Call (904) 539-3352 to verify your benefits and schedule. 13770 Beach Blvd #4, Jacksonville FL 32224.