Efficacy of Yamamoto New Scalp Acupuncture Versus Traditional Chinese Acupuncture for Migraine Treatment

Abstract

Background: Traditional Chinese acupuncture (TCA) is an effective alternative treatment in migraine headache. The aim of this study was to compare the therapeutic effect of Yamamoto new scalp acupuncture (YNSA), a recently developed microacupuncture system, with TCA for the prophylaxis and treatment of migraine headache. Methods: In a randomized clinical trial, 80 patients with migraine headache were assigned to receive YNSA or TCA. A pain visual analogue scale (VAS) and migraine therapy assessment questionnaire (MTAQ) were completed before treatment, after 6 and 18 sections of treatment, and 1 month after completion of therapy. Results: All the recruited patients completed the study. Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. Frequency and severity of migraine attacks, nausea, the need for rescue treatment, and work absence rate decreased similarly in both groups. Recovery from headache and ability to continue daily activities 2 hours after medical treatment showed similar improvement in both groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Classic acupuncture and YNSA are similarly effective in the prophylaxis and treatment of migraine headache and may be considered as alternatives to pharmacotherapy.