Chronic Migraine Awareness

Written for Chronic Migraine Awareness by Kristi Estep

Myth: Daith piercings cure migraine.

Truth: According to The American Migraine Foundation, there is no scientific evidence that Daith piercings can reduce or stop migraine or headache. The only evidence supporting Daith as a treatment is either anecdotal or due to the placebo effect. There is concern that Daith can damage the spot where acupuncture would be preformed to stimulate a pressure point. Also, there is a risk that Daith piercings could result in infection due to the fact that they are difficult to perform.

Action: I am writing about this subject because at my physical a couple of weeks ago, the medical assistant told me that I should get a Daith piercing for my migraine so that I did not need to take any medication anymore. I explained that there is not any scientific proof that the piercing stops migraine. She stated to me, I would get it because all of my friends who have it (Daith) don’t get migraine anymore. I again reiterated that there is not the science backing that up and is most likely the placebo effect. I explained about the possible damage or infections risks to her also. I would have thought that medical personal would understand the science of it, but I could not change her mind. I am writing this in hopes of reaching others who think that Daith is a cure for migraine and providing them some education on the subject.

If you would like to share your story with us please email kristen@cmaware.org