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Manual acupuncture as prophylaxis for migraine without aura: study protocol for a multi-center, randomized,
Jiao Chen1,2, Siyuan Zhou1,2, Mingsheng Sun1
1Acupuncture and Tuina School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.37 Shier Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan, China.
Trials
|July 19, 2022
Summary
This study investigates manual acupuncture for migraine prevention. Using true acupoints with non-penetrating needling as a control, it aims to clarify acupuncture
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Integrative Medicine
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Migraine is a leading cause of disability globally, affecting millions.
- Acupuncture shows potential for migraine prophylaxis, but evidence is inconsistent.
- Previous placebo controls for acupuncture in migraine trials have methodological limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of manual acupuncture for preventing migraine without aura (MWoA).
- To establish a robust control method using non-penetrating needling at true acupoints for migraine prophylaxis trials.
Main Methods:
- A single-blinded, randomized, controlled, prospective, multi-center trial involving 198 patients with MWoA.
- Patients were allocated 1:1 to receive either manual acupuncture or placebo (non-penetrating) acupuncture.
- Treatment involved three sessions per week for 4 weeks, followed by a 12-week follow-up.
Main Results:
- The study is designed to determine the efficacy of manual acupuncture in reducing migraine frequency and severity.
- Safety and tolerability of the intervention and control will be assessed.
- The results will provide insights into the specific effects of needling true acupoints.
Conclusions:
- This trial will clarify the role of manual acupuncture in migraine prophylaxis.
- The use of a novel placebo control enhances the methodological rigor of the study.
- Findings will inform clinical practice and future research on acupuncture for migraine.
