Daith Piercing for Migraine Relief
Daith piercing is an unconventional remedy for migraine relief, and it is gaining a lot of social media attention. The piercing, which involves puncturing the innermost cartilage fold of the ear, known as the helix crus, has been associated with potential health benefits, including the possible alleviation of migraine symptoms. The procedure is typically carried out by a professional piercer and, like any piercing, requires proper aftercare to prevent infections. But does it really help, and if so, what is the science behind it?
The Theory Behind Daith Piercing and Migraine Relief
The believed effectiveness of daith piercing for migraine relief has roots in acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice. Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. You can read more about acupuncture and how it can reduce migraine frequency and severity here.
The daith piercing location on the ear is believed to correspond to an acupuncture point that targets migraine relief. By mimicking the acupuncture point, it is thought to offer similar benefits.
Evidence Supporting Daith Piercing for Migraine Relief
Scientific evidence on the impact of daith piercings on migraine is limited, as there are very few studies that validate their effectiveness for treating migraine. Some researchers argue that the placebo effect, where individuals experience improvements due to their expectations rather than the treatment itself, may play a significant role. However, anecdotally, many people report improvements in their symptoms after getting a daith piercing, and it may not always be a placebo effect! In our Migraine Meanderings Facebook group, results and opinions are mixed.
Some members have commented, saying it has helped them …
“Got mine done a year ago and it definitely has helped. I went from 17-25 migraines a month to about 3-5. I also take [medication] but after getting the piercing, migraine days were [much fewer].”
“I had mine done a year and a half ago and it worked for me. No migraines since!”
Others report that it seemed to help in the beginning, but eventually stopped, and some say it doesn’t stop their migraine attacks, but does reduce some of their symptoms.
“I’ve had both of mine for 4 and 5 years, respectively. I saw the most relief in the first few months. It does often seem to cut down on the severity of an attack for me, but not always.”
“Mine helped prevent me from vomiting from migraines. That used to happen a lot, and I haven’t vomited since I got the piercing. It didn’t hurt too bad considering the pain we experience from migraine.”
Many say it did not help them at all, but note that it is still worth trying.
“I had it done, but it didn’t help. However, I thought it was worth a try, and not expensive.”
“It didn’t seem to help my migraines. It’s relatively cheap and non-invasive so I always tell people they might as well try it.”
Risks and Considerations
Before getting a daith piercing as a potential migraine treatment, it is important to consider the risks involved. As with any piercing, there is a risk of infection, particularly if proper aftercare is not followed. Additionally, the piercing location in the ear cartilage can be more painful and take longer to heal compared to other types of piercings.
Complications can include:
- Infections that may require medical treatment
- Scarring and keloid formation
- Prolonged pain and discomfort
To minimize these risks, seeking a reputable and experienced piercer is crucial. It is also important to have the piercing done by a piercer who understands the anatomy of the ear and the intended effects.
Overall, daith piercing presents an intriguing possibility for migraine relief. While anecdotal evidence suggests potential benefits, solid scientific validation is lacking. Either way, as with everything migraine, it’s essential to go into it with realistic expectations, weigh the potential risks and benefits, and consult your doctor first.