Cervicogenic headache treated by acupuncture based on jin theory: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Integrative Medicine
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Cervicogenic headache (CEH) presents a significant challenge, with existing evidence on acupuncture's efficacy being inconclusive.
• Numerous randomized trials have explored acupuncture for CEH, necessitating further high-quality research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and advantages of acupuncture, specifically jin acupuncture, for treating cervicogenic headache.
• To provide robust evidence regarding the therapeutic value of acupuncture in CEH management.

Main Methods:

• A parallel-design, patient-assessor blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial involving 166 CEH patients aged 18-70.
• Participants were randomized (1:1) to receive 12 sessions of real jin acupuncture or sham acupuncture over 4 weeks.
• Primary outcomes included pain degree and rate (PainVision analyzer) and surface electromyography (SEMG) parameters; secondary outcomes assessed pain, neck function, quality of life, anxiety, and depression.

Main Results:

• Data collection includes clinical assessments at baseline, 4, 8, and 16 weeks.
• Adverse events will be systematically recorded for safety evaluation.

Conclusions:

• This study aims to provide high-quality evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture based on jin theory for cervicogenic headache.
• Findings will inform clinical practice and guideline development for CEH treatment.