Ear needle zaps headaches? new study uses heat cameras to find out
NCT ID NCT05662722
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether inserting a tiny needle into the ear and applying a mild electrical current (called percutaneous needle electrolysis) can help people with frequent headaches. Researchers will use an infrared camera to measure changes in facial skin temperature, since people with headaches often have a 'cold nose' pattern. The trial involves 60 adults who get headaches at least once a month and show this cold pattern. It compares the real treatment to dry needling and a sham procedure.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- percutaneous needle electrolysis (galvanic current via needle in the ear)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple, non-drug technique to reduce headache frequency or severity.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early-stage trial (60 people) testing a technique that may not work better than a sham procedure. The main goal is measuring temperature changes, not proving headache relief.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Physioterapy and Pain center research
RECRUITINGAlcalá de Henares, Madrid, 28805, Spain
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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