Acupuncture for Migraine in Auckland
Dr. Robin Won, NZ's only CMCNZ Acupuncture Specialist, 26 years specialising in chronic migraine. Cochrane 2016 evidence. Rosedale.
Trusted by 7,000+ Auckland patients Same-week slots ACC accepted
Acupuncture for migraine in Auckland is most evidence-supported as a preventive treatment. The Cochrane 2016 systematic review (Linde et al., CD001218.pub3, PMID 27351677) concluded that acupuncture reduces episodic migraine frequency by at least half in many patients, with effect comparable to prophylactic medication and fewer adverse effects. NICE CG150 recommends up to 10 sessions of acupuncture over 5 to 8 weeks for chronic migraine and tension-type headache prevention. Dr. Robin Won at Auckland Wellness Centre has 26 years specialising in chronic migraine.
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The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2016 (Linde K et al., issue 6, Art. No. CD001218.pub3, DOI 10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3, PMID 27351677) is the most authoritative systematic review of acupuncture for episodic migraine prevention.
Pooled analysis of 22 trials with 4,985 participants found:
The authors concluded acupuncture should be a treatment option for patients willing to undergo treatment. No acute migraine Cochrane review exists for acupuncture. AWC does not claim acupuncture as acute migraine abortive therapy.
Acupuncture reduces episodic migraine frequency by at least half in many patients. Effect is comparable to prophylactic medication with fewer adverse events. Moderate-quality evidence.
Linde K et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016, Issue 6. Art. No. CD001218. DOI 10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3. PMID 27351677. PMCID PMC4977344.
NICE CG150 recommends a course of up to 10 sessions of acupuncture over 5 to 8 weeks for the prophylactic treatment of chronic tension-type headache and migraine. Acupuncture is positioned alongside topiramate, propranolol, and amitriptyline as first-line prophylactic options.
NICE Clinical Guideline 150. Updated 17 December 2021.
Dr. Robin Won is CMCNZ Specialist Scope (HPCA Act 2003), with 26 years specialising in chronic migraine. His approach begins with a 60-minute Korean medicine consultation (Sasang constitutional, pulse, tongue) to identify migraine pattern.
Treatment plan. Typically 8 to 12 sessions over 6 to 10 weeks, 1 to 2 sessions per week initially.
Common point combinations. GB20, GB14, GB8, Yintang, LI4, LV3, Taiyang. Korean-gauge needles (0.16 mm) for shallower insertion.
Adjuncts. Cupping along upper trapezius, indirect moxibustion if cold pattern, lifestyle counselling (sleep hygiene, dietary triggers, hydration).
Outcome tracking. Migraine diary at session 4 and 8 (frequency, intensity, duration, medication use).
원승환
Acupuncturist, CMCNZ Specialist Scope (HPCA Act 2003)
Chronic migraine, post-stroke recovery, sciatica, fertility
26 years clinical experience, KOMS-certified, Sangji University PhD
Session 1. 60-minute initial consultation + first treatment ($80 private or ACC pathway).
Sessions 2 to 4. Weekly follow-up 60 minutes ($70 private or ACC).
Sessions 5 to 8. Biweekly maintenance.
Review at session 4 with migraine diary. Most patients see frequency reduction by session 6 to 8 (consistent with Cochrane 50% NNT 4 to 6).
ACC pathway available if migraine is post-concussion or trauma-related. Otherwise private or Southern Cross Easy-Claim.
Five red flag scenarios warrant medical workup before acupuncture. AWC will defer treatment and refer to your GP or A&E if any red flag is identified at intake.
Red flag list is for general guidance and is not a substitute for individual medical assessment. If you are unsure, contact your GP or Healthline 0800 611 116.
Eight common questions about acupuncture for migraine in Auckland.
Most patients in the Cochrane 2016 review saw 50% frequency reduction by 8 to 12 weeks of treatment (4 to 12 sessions). Initial response typically by session 4 to 6. Individual results vary.
The Cochrane 2016 review found acupuncture comparable to prophylactic medication at 3 months, with fewer adverse events. Acupuncture is positioned alongside topiramate and propranolol in NICE CG150 recommendations.
Migraine itself is not an ACC-covered injury. However, post-concussion migraine, post-MVA migraine, and post-traumatic headache are ACC-eligible if linked to an accepted injury claim. AWC will assess at first visit.
Yes. Acupuncture is safe alongside prophylactic and abortive migraine medications. Many patients reduce medication dose as acupuncture effect builds, in consultation with their GP or neurologist.
NICE CG150 recommends up to 10 sessions of acupuncture for tension-type headache prevention. Cochrane has a separate 2016 review for tension-type headache (Linde K et al., CD007587) supporting acupuncture efficacy.
Chronic daily headache and medication overuse headache often coexist. AWC's approach includes acupuncture plus lifestyle counselling and coordinated reduction of abortive medication, in liaison with your GP if appropriate.
Most patients receive 8 to 12 sessions over 6 to 10 weeks for the initial treatment course, then taper to monthly maintenance. Dr. Won reviews progress at session 4 and 8.
Unit E2/27 William Pickering Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632. Free parking, wheelchair accessible, open 7 days. Book online at booking.mananotes.co.nz/AWC or call 09 600 1939.
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