If you suffer from migraines, you know the warning signs all too well — the visual disturbances, the throbbing pain, the nausea, and the days lost lying in a dark room waiting for it to pass. Migraines can be debilitating, and while medical treatments are available, many patients are looking for additional, natural ways to reduce how often they occur and how intense they feel. At Acu Hijama in Chicago, our practitioner Amal Khaled regularly works with patients seeking natural headache relief. One of the most effective methods we offer is hijama cupping therapy — a form of wet cupping that comes up frequently in discussions about holistic pain management.
Let’s explore what Hijama involves, why it may help with headaches and migraines, and what you can realistically expect.
What Is Hijama and Why Might It Help with Migraines?
Hijama is a traditional therapy with roots in Islamic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine. It uses small cups placed on the skin to create suction, which draws blood to the surface. In wet cupping, tiny superficial incisions are made beforehand to draw out a small amount of blood from specific points on the body.
Migraines are complex and can have many triggers, but tension in the neck and upper back, poor circulation, and stress are commonly associated factors. Hijama is thought to:
- Improve blood flow to the head and neck area, potentially reducing vascular tension that contributes to headache pain
- Release deeply held muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
- Promote the body’s natural relaxation response, which may reduce migraine frequency in stress-sensitive individuals
What Does the Evidence Say?
Some studies have explored cupping therapy for headaches and migraines. A study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that wet cupping showed positive results in reducing migraine frequency and pain severity in a small group of patients. Much like the evidence supporting acupuncture for headache relief, another review noted that cupping therapy was associated with improved outcomes for chronic headache conditions.
Research in this area is encouraging but limited in scale. At Acu Hijama, we present these findings honestly — Hijama may offer genuine relief for some migraine sufferers, but individual responses vary and results cannot be guaranteed.
Which Hijama Points Are Used for Headaches?
In traditional Hijama practice, specific points are associated with relieving head and neck pain. These commonly include points at the base of the skull, along the upper back and neck, and at the top of the back between the shoulder blades. Your practitioner will assess your specific areas of tension and pain during your consultation to select the most appropriate points for you.
What to Expect During Your Session
A Hijama session for migraine or headache relief is a calm, structured experience:
- Your practitioner will take a full health history and discuss your migraine patterns — frequency, triggers, and severity
- Cups are placed on relevant points, usually around the neck, upper back, and shoulders
- You’ll feel a gentle pulling sensation — the majority of patients find this relaxing rather than uncomfortable
- In wet cupping, small superficial incisions are made and cups are reapplied briefly
- The session lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes
Many patients report feeling immediate tension release in the neck and shoulders. For migraine relief, improvement is often gradual and builds across a series of sessions.
How Many Sessions Are Recommended?
For chronic migraines, a course of 4 to 6 sessions over 6 to 8 weeks is a reasonable starting point. Our practitioner will review your progress and adjust the plan based on how you’re responding.
Who Should Avoid Hijama?
Hijama is not suitable for everyone. Please speak with your doctor before trying wet cupping if you are pregnant, take blood-thinning medication, have a blood clotting disorder, or have active skin conditions in the treatment area. If your migraines are accompanied by neurological symptoms, always consult a physician first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Hijama stop a migraine once it has started?
Hijama is generally used as a preventive or between-episode therapy rather than an acute treatment. If you are in the middle of a migraine attack, rest and consult your doctor about appropriate immediate relief options.
How soon after a Hijama session might I notice headache relief?
Some patients notice reduced tension and mild relief after their first session. For migraine frequency reduction, most practitioners suggest assessing results over a course of 4 to 6 sessions.
Can I have Hijama alongside my migraine medication?
In most cases, yes — but always inform your prescribing doctor and your Hijama practitioner about all medications you are taking before beginning any new therapy.
Are there any side effects from Hijama that could worsen headaches?
A small number of patients feel temporary lightheadedness or fatigue after a Hijama session. Staying well hydrated before and after your session helps minimise this. If you notice any worsening of symptoms, let your practitioner know.
Is Hijama painful for someone who already has a headache?
Your practitioner will always check in on your comfort throughout the session. Most patients find the experience relaxing. If you come in with an active headache, discuss this with your practitioner before beginning — they can adjust the session accordingly.
How does Hijama differ from dry cupping for migraines?
Dry cupping uses suction only, while Hijama (wet cupping) also draws out a small amount of blood. Both may help with tension and circulation, but Hijama is more specific to traditional Islamic healing practice. Your practitioner can discuss which approach suits you best.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Holistic and traditional therapies at Acu Hijama are intended to complement — not replace — conventional medical care. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have a pre-existing condition, are pregnant, or are taking medication. Individual results may vary.
Amal Khaled is a board-certified practitioner in Oriental Medicine and the lead practitioner at Acu Hijama. With over a decade of experience, Amal holds a Master’s degree in Oriental Medicine, a Diploma in Clinical Homeopathy, and certifications in Hijama and Modern Leech Therapy. She is passionate about sharing her expertise in holistic health with her patients through her articles and blogs. Amal combines traditional healing methods with modern medical practices, offering personalized treatments to promote optimal health and wellness.
