What the research shows
Headaches are one of the best-studied uses of acupuncture. Cochrane reviews of migraine prevention found that adding acupuncture reduced how often migraines occurred, with results similar to some preventive medications and fewer side effects. A separate Cochrane review found acupuncture helps prevent frequent tension-type headaches. In both cases, the goal is fewer headache days, not just relief during an attack.
Types of headache we treat
- Migraine with or without aura, including menstrual migraine
- Tension-type headaches from neck and shoulder tightness
- Headaches from jaw clenching and TMJ
- Stress and screen-related headaches
- Sinus-pattern headaches, after medical evaluation
How treatment works
Dr. Iskhakov treats points on the head and neck such as GB20 (Fengchi), points on the hands and feet such as LI4 (Hegu) and LV3 (Taichong), and adds cupping across the neck and shoulders when tension is a trigger. She also looks for patterns behind your headaches: sleep, stress, your cycle, digestion, screen time and posture. You will get practical changes to try alongside treatment.
A typical plan
Most migraine prevention plans are one session a week for six to eight weeks, then visits every two to four weeks. Keep a simple headache diary (dates, severity, medication taken) and bring it to each visit, so we can measure progress together. Many patients see headache frequency fall within the first month.
During an attack
If you can travel comfortably, acupuncture during a headache can ease pain and nausea. Prevention is still the main goal, because that is where the evidence is strongest.
Cost and insurance
Treatment starts at $185 (first visit, about 90 minutes). Follow-up acupuncture is $140 for about 60 minutes, with cupping or electroacupuncture included when needed, and packages lower the per-visit cost. We are an out-of-network provider: you pay at each visit and receive a superbill to submit to your insurer, and many PPO plans reimburse part of the fee. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See every fee on pricing & insurance.
When to see a doctor first
Call 911 for a sudden "worst headache of your life", a headache with weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, fever and a stiff neck, or vision loss. See a doctor about a new headache pattern after age 50.
Getting to our Midtown office
Our office at 25 W 45th St is a quiet, dim treatment room just off Fifth Avenue, steps from Bryant Park and the 42 St–Bryant Park station.
Fifth Element Acupuncture, 25 W 45th St, Suite 507, New York, NY 10036 · (347) 596-0931 · Directions
B, D, F, M to 42 St–Bryant Park · 7 to 5 Av · 4, 5, 6, S and Metro-North at Grand Central (6-min walk) · Times Sq–42 St (8-min walk)
How to book
Answer a few short questions online and we will call within one business day to confirm a time, or call (347) 596-0931. New patients start with a 90-minute first visit. Evening and Saturday appointments are available, and care is offered in English and Russian.
Book acupuncture for headaches
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine complement, and do not replace, care from your physician. Results vary from person to person. Please continue any treatment your doctor has prescribed and tell us about medications you take. Photos are illustrative.
