Anyone who has ever had a migraine or anxiety attack knows just how crippling they can be. The National Headache Foundation states that about 37 million Americans suffer from migraines and anxiety, and women are three times more likely to get them than men.
The problem with migraines is there’s not a lot known about them. They are triggered by numerous daily activities, differ from person to person, and cannot always be treated. People and doctors have tried everything to stop or at least reduce the symptoms of migraines and anxiety. There are anti-depressants, over-the-counter medications, acupuncture, meditation, the list goes on and on. But now, a new, easy, inexpensive alternative to medication is starting to become popular – an ear piercing.
The daith piercing is a small hoop that goes through the inner cartilage of the ear. How is a cool piece of jewelry supposed to relieve headaches, migraines, and anxiety? “Essentially it’s the same concept as acupuncture, the piercing hits a pressure point which then relieves the pressure in your head,” explains Dave Kurlander, owner of the Tempest Artistic Studio in New York.
There is not a lot of scientific research to back up the legitimacy of this piercing, but for some people, migraines are so disabling they will try anything. It is a quick, 5-minute, one time process, it costs about $50, and it looks pretty cool. Compared to prescription medication and other holistic approaches, this is pretty cheap price to pay for the possibility of some relief.
Dr. Tammi Bergman specializes in headache relief and says she always encourages her patients try new alternatives to medication. Medication doesn’t always work, can be very expensive, and the side effects can be just as crippling as the migraine itself. “We don’t even have hard statistics on the medications for migraines and anxiety…so whenever you can do without it, it’s always a great thing. So if a patient is open minded I say go for it” she says, regarding the daith piercing.
Of course, like with most things, the daith piercing is not a cure-all aid. But if you or someone who know suffers from migraines or anxiety, this piercing might be worth a shot. What do you think of it?