Ancient needle technique could tame chronic migraine

NCT ID NCT07633522

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether adding fire needling (a technique using heated needles) to standard acupuncture can better reduce headache days in people with both chronic migraine and tension-type headache. Eighty-eight adults will receive either the combined treatment or acupuncture alone twice a week for 8 weeks. Researchers will track headache frequency, pain intensity, and quality of life over 24 weeks.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
fire needling and filiform needling (acupuncture procedures)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a drug-free option to reduce monthly headache days and improve quality of life for people with chronic migraine and tension-type headache.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial (88 people) with no placebo control, so results may not be conclusive. Acupuncture effects can vary, and the procedure may cause discomfort or bruising.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

migraine disorder Tension-Type Headache

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100010, China

  • Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100070, China

  • Capital Medical University Affiliated Beijing Tongren Hospital

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100730, China

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