Recurrent headaches can affect work, family life, sleep and confidence in planning ahead. The first step is understanding the headache pattern, previous assessment, medication, possible triggers and any symptoms that need medical review.
Acupuncture has been studied as one option for migraine prevention. The Cochrane review by Linde et al. (2016, CD001218; doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3) concluded that it may be considered for people willing to use it, while also identifying limitations in the evidence. Results and individual responses vary, so we do not promise a particular reduction in headache frequency or severity.
Chinese medicine assessment considers the location, quality, timing, triggers and accompanying symptoms described by the patient. This is a traditional clinical framework and does not replace a medical diagnosis. Care may include acupuncture and, where appropriate, cupping or Tuina for associated muscular tension.
Acupuncture is offered as complementary care. Continue medication and medical or specialist management unless the clinician responsible for it advises a change. A new, sudden or unusually severe headache, or a headache with neurological symptoms, needs urgent medical assessment.
Is this a reasonable next step?
Who may consider this care
- Adults considering complementary care for recurrent migraine or tension-type headache
- People who want a plan that sits alongside GP or specialist management
- People willing to track headache frequency and review whether care is useful
Suitability is determined individually. Website information cannot diagnose a condition or replace medical advice.
What to expect
Your first appointment
We ask about headache pattern, triggers, aura, medication and previous medical assessment. Treatment is only proposed after screening for symptoms that require medical review and discussing options, expected sensations and consent.
- Duration
- Around 90 minutes
- Initial fee
- $170
- Follow-up
- Around 60 minutes · $100
Registered care
Your practitioner
Maria Cappello
- AHPRA registered Chinese medicine practitioner
- Member, Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association (AACMA)
- BHSc (Chinese Medicine), University of Technology Sydney
Plan your visit
Rozelle clinic
698 Darling St, Rozelle NSW 2039
Metered and time-limited street parking may be available on Darling Street and surrounding streets. Check local signs and permit restrictions.
On-the-spot HICAPS claiming is available where your private health extras policy includes acupuncture. Rebates and annual limits vary, so check with your fund.
Directions & hours →Questions before booking
Safety, comfort and frequency
Safety and discomfort
A new, sudden or unusually severe headache, headache after injury, or headache with fever, weakness, confusion, vision loss or other neurological symptoms needs urgent medical assessment. Acupuncture may cause temporary tenderness, bruising, light-headedness or tiredness.
Treatment frequency
Frequency is individual. We agree on a short initial plan and a review point using measures such as headache days, intensity, medication use and daily function. Care should continue only when it remains useful to you.
A considered next step
Discuss whether this care is appropriate for you
Initial consultation · around 90 minutes · $170