Almost everyone has headaches. Most are not caused by a serious illness, but frequent headaches can wear you down and affect work, sleep and mood.
Common types
- Tension-type headache: a dull band or pressure around the head, linked to stress and tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Migraine: throbbing pain with nausea or sensitivity to light (see our migraine page)
- Cervicogenic headache: pain that starts in the neck
- Sinus headache: pressure around the cheeks and forehead with a blocked nose
- Medication overuse headache: caused by taking pain relievers too often
What can help
Regular sleep and meals, enough water, breaks from screens, neck and shoulder stretches, and managing stress. If you use pain relievers on more than a couple of days a week, speak to your doctor, because overuse can make headaches more frequent.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine
Neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are offered at The Tole as a complement to medical care. They aim to ease muscle tension and support circulation to the head and neck.
Studies suggest acupuncture may reduce the frequency of tension-type headaches in some people. Results vary, and we do not promise a particular outcome.
Acupuncture and herbal treatment at The Tole
At The Tole, treatment combines neuro acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. The Master’s team reviews your history and any medical reports, then recommends acupuncture, herbal preparations, or both. Herbs are prepared for the individual, using natural herbs and the family’s ancestral formulas.
You can walk in during opening hours without an appointment. If you live far away, email your medical reports and we will advise you on herbs and, where suitable, an intensive course of acupuncture. Herbs can be couriered to any country, usually in 3 to 5 working days. See herbs by post.
What to expect at your first visit
- Walk in or message us. No appointment is needed during opening hours. You can also send a WhatsApp message first.
- Tell us your story. The Master’s team asks about your symptoms and history, and looks at any reports you bring.
- Agree a plan. They recommend neuro acupuncture, herbal medicine, or both, and explain what to expect.
- Follow up. If you take herbs, we ask you to update us on your progress by email.
Why people choose The Tole
- A family practice, now in its fourth generation, in Kuala Lumpur since 1992
- Officially opened by the Health Minister on 31 January 1993
- Herbal formulas prepared for each patient, using natural herbs
- Walk-ins welcome, and herbs couriered to any country
Common questions
Can acupuncture help a tension headache?
Some people find it helps, and some trials show fewer headache days. Results are not the same for everyone.
Why do I get headaches from my neck?
Tight muscles and stiff joints in the neck can refer pain to the head. Posture, long hours at a screen and stress are common contributors.
When should I get a scan?
Most headaches do not need one. Your doctor will decide based on your symptoms and examination.
See a doctor first if
- A sudden, severe headache, the worst of your life. Go to emergency care at once
- Headache with weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision changes or a drooping face. Call emergency services (999 in Malaysia)
- Headache after a head injury, or with fever and a stiff neck
- Headaches that are getting worse, wake you from sleep, or are new after age 50
Ready to talk to us?
Message us on WhatsApp, or walk in during opening hours. No appointment is needed.
Traditional Chinese medicine is offered as a complement to, not a replacement for, medical care. We do not promise a cure or a particular result, and responses vary from person to person. Please keep your doctor informed about any herbs or treatments you use.