Brain scans reveal how imagining acupuncture may rewire pain pathways

NCT ID NCT03046030

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 21, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study investigates how watching guided acupuncture videos changes brain activity in healthy adults. Participants receive real acupuncture, sham acupuncture, or video-guided imagery while undergoing fMRI scans. The goal is to understand the brain mechanisms behind mind-body interactions and imagery, which could inform future pain treatments.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: video-guided acupuncture imagery treatment (VGAIT), real acupuncture, and sham acupuncture
What this could lead to: If successful, this research could reveal how the brain processes imagery and acupuncture, potentially informing new non-drug approaches for pain management.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage mechanistic study in healthy volunteers, not a treatment trial. Results may not translate to pain patients or clinical practice.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PAIN

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital

Charlestown, Massachusetts, 02129, United States

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