Migraine Cure?

Q: Does the daith piercing cure headaches? - Pam

A: The “daith” piercing (pronounced ‘doth’, rhymes with ‘moth,’ not ‘dayth’) is an inner ear piercing along the anatomical crus of helix. This is a firm part of ear cartilage on the roof of the ear canal that connects the outer ear to the side of the head. This piercing was created in the mid 90’s by Eric Dakota and has a loose translation meaning “knowledge” from the Hebrew word “daath.” While this piercing has been desirable for a long time, primarily for its flattering appearance, it has gained popularity over the past year with widespread hype regarding migraine relief.

Many individuals report that the daith piercing has treated or prevented migraine headaches. These reports can be found all over the internet and social media, as well as through clients’ personal testimonies.  As much as we would love to jump on this trend, we have found no scientific evidence to substantiate these claims.

Client feedback from various practitioners has ranged from complete relief to no change in symptoms. As professional body piercers, we are not in the business of running science experiments, practicing medicine, or proclaiming cures. Regardless of what we hear, it would be unethical to promote the daith piercing as a medically supported cure, treatment, or scientific theory. The reality is that we do fun, unique piercings, and if that is what you want, the daith might be the right piercing for you.

If you do choose to receive a daith piercing, know that not all jewelry or placements are equal. Not everyone is built anatomically for this piercing. Due to its recent publicity, we have seen an influx of inappropriately performed daiths accompanied by healing problems. These issues are caused, in part, by poor placement, incorrect jewelry size/style, and unprofessional advice.

Several images online show barbell or stud style jewelry used in the daith, this type of jewelry is not usually suitable for a fresh piercing and is rather troublesome to maintain.  Ring style jewelry is often used, as it caters to the healing process adequately and is much more visually appealing and complimentary to the ear.

Shallow and/or steep-angled placements are common with this recent influx, but not conducive to comfort, successful healing, or balanced aesthetics.  A properly performed daith piercing is angled inward toward the ear canal. The ring will have the illusion of ‘floating’ and will contour and compliment the curvature of the inner ear. The entrance and exit of the piercing should not be visible from a side view. Proper placement and jewelry, performed by a well-trained piercer, can yield a look that you will be delighted with for years.

At the end of the day, if you decide to get a daith piercing, and it does not solve all of life’s problems, you should feel confident that you will be left with a really fun, flattering, and unique piercing.

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