Headaches/Migraines

Headaches and migraines are among the most common health complaints worldwide, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that almost half of the adult population worldwide experiences headaches in any given year. While many different treatment options are available, acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are two alternative therapies that have gained popularity in recent years.

Ponsonby Wellness Centre is an acupuncture clinic located in Auckland, NZ. We can develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. We also guide our clients on using these therapies safely and effectively.

Studies have shown that acupuncture treatment for migraines and headaches is an effective alternative for helping to lessen their frequency and intensity.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is based on the concept that energy, known as qi (pronounced “chee”), flows through the body along specific pathways, known as meridians. When the flow of qi is blocked or disrupted, it can lead to pain and illness.

Many experts agree that acupuncture helps restore the flow of qi, promoting healing by stimulating specific points of the body. In the case of headaches and migraines, acupuncture is implemented to stimulate the nerves and muscles around the head and neck, which can help to alleviate pain and reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

Several studies have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for headaches and migraines. For several decades, acupuncture research by reputable data and research specialists produced overwhelming evidence that acupuncture is, in fact, an effective treatment model for many human health issues.

One such acupuncture for migraine and headache study is a 2016 systematic review of 22 randomised controlled trials that found acupuncture more effective than sham acupuncture or no treatment for reducing the frequency of migraines. In the study, an update of a 2009 research project, data was collected from visits by almost 5,000 individuals during controlled trials.

In a 2004 study by the British Medical Journal, routine acupuncture recipients experienced fewer, less severe tension headaches than subjects from control groups. The study used control groups and found that the group exposed to acupuncture for 12 months experienced 22 days less of headaches and migraines, with significantly lesser severity.

Chinese herb medicine is another traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses a combination of herbs to address specific health conditions. Herbal formulas are customized based on the individual’s symptoms and constitution.

Chinese herb medicine is another traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses a combination of herbs to address specific health conditions. Herbal formulas are customised based on the individual’s symptoms and constitution.

Many Chinese herbs have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation – common causes of headaches and migraines. For example, feverfew, a herb used for centuries to treat headaches and migraines, has been found to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines by inhibiting inflammation.

Many believe some Chinese herbal formulas promote blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help to alleviate pain and reduce the frequency and severity of headaches and migraines.

Like acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine has proven effective in treating headaches and migraines. A 2015 systematic review of 22 randomised controlled trials found that Chinese herbal medicine reduced the frequency and intensity of migraines.

For information or to get started with acupuncture treatment for headaches or migraines, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to provide more information and assist you in scheduling an initial appointment.