Acupuncture for Cluster Headaches: 10+ Studies Summary

Cluster headaches are one of the most painful types of headaches, often described as a “suicide headache” due to their intensity¹. These headaches occur in cyclical patterns, known as cluster periods, and can wake you up in the middle of the night with excruciating pain, usually centered around one eye². While medications are commonly used to manage symptoms, acupuncture has emerged as a promising alternative or complementary treatment.

But what does the research actually say about acupuncture for cluster headaches? Let’s dive in.

What Are Cluster Headaches?

Cluster headaches are a rare but severe form of headache that occurs in clusters, meaning they happen frequently over weeks or months, followed by a period of remission. The pain is typically one-sided, often described as a sharp, burning, or piercing sensation around the eye. Symptoms may also include redness, tearing, nasal congestion, and restlessness³.

The exact cause of cluster headaches is still unknown, but they are believed to involve abnormalities in the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates biological rhythms⁴. Triggers can include alcohol, strong smells, and changes in sleep patterns.

How Does Acupuncture Work for Cluster Headaches?

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to restore balance and promote healing. According to TCM theory, cluster headaches are often linked to imbalances in the liver and kidney meridians, as well as stagnation of qi (energy) and blood⁵. Acupuncture aims to address these imbalances by stimulating specific points, such as Fengchi (GB 20), Hegu (LI 4), and Baihui (DU 20), depending on the patient’s symptoms and the time of headache onset⁶.

Modern research suggests that acupuncture may help by:

1. Regulating Neurotransmitters: Acupuncture has been shown to influence the release of endorphins and serotonin, which can modulate pain perception⁷.
2. Reducing Inflammation: Studies indicate that acupuncture may lower levels of pro-inflammatory markers, which are often elevated in cluster headache patients⁸.
3. Improving Blood Flow: By stimulating specific points, acupuncture may enhance circulation, reducing the vascular component of cluster headaches⁹.

What Does the Research Say?

Several studies have explored the effectiveness of acupuncture for cluster headaches. Here’s a breakdown of the findings:

1. Case Studies and Clinical Trials

• A 2014 study published in PubMed examined four patients with cluster headaches who received acupuncture twice a week for 10 weeks. The treatment targeted points like Taiyang (EX-HN5) and Yangbai (GB 14). All patients reported a significant reduction in headache frequency and intensity, suggesting that acupuncture may influence the opioid system to alleviate pain¹⁰.
• A 2022 randomized controlled trial published in Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion investigated the combination of sphenopalatine ganglion acupuncture (a specialized technique) with conventional acupuncture. The results showed that the combined approach significantly improved pain relief and quality of life compared to conventional treatment alone¹¹.

2. Acupuncture Combined with Other Therapies

• A 2020 study from Shanxi Medical Journal explored the use of acupuncture alongside the medication naratriptan for preventing cluster headaches. The combination therapy led to a notable decrease in headache frequency and severity, highlighting acupuncture’s potential as an adjunct treatment¹².
• Another 2020 study published on Wanfang Data compared acupuncture combined with acupoint application (herbal patches) to standard Western treatment. The acupuncture group had a 71% effectiveness rate, significantly higher than the 47% rate in the control group¹³.

3. Mechanisms and Future Directions

• A 2024 bibliometric analysis in PubMed identified acupuncture as an emerging area of interest in cluster headache research. The study emphasized the need for further exploration of acupuncture’s impact on CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide), a key player in the pathophysiology of cluster headaches¹⁴.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is acupuncture painful?

Acupuncture is generally not painful¹⁵. The needles are very thin, and most people feel only a slight tingling or warmth at the insertion points. Any discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.

2. How many sessions are needed to see results?

The number of sessions varies depending on the individual and the severity of their condition. Some patients report improvement after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment over several weeks.

3. Can acupuncture replace medications for cluster headaches?

Acupuncture can be used as a complementary therapy alongside medications. While some patients may reduce their reliance on drugs, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

4. Are there any side effects of acupuncture for cluster headaches?

Acupuncture is considered safe when performed by a licensed practitioner. Minor side effects, such as bruising or soreness at the needle sites, may occur but are typically mild and temporary.

Read more: Acupuncture Risks and Side Effects: What You Need to Know

5. What points are commonly used for cluster headaches?

Common acupuncture points for cluster headaches include Fengchi (GB 20), Hegu (LI 4), Taiyang (EX-HN5), and Baihui (DU 20). The specific points used may vary based on the patient’s symptoms and TCM diagnosis.

Bottom Line

Acupuncture offers a promising, non-invasive option for managing cluster headaches, particularly for those seeking alternatives to medication or additional relief. Research suggests that it can reduce headache frequency, intensity, and associated symptoms, though more high-quality studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms and long-term benefits.

If you’re considering acupuncture for cluster headaches, consult a licensed acupuncturist or healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan. Combined with lifestyle changes and other therapies, acupuncture may help you regain control over your headaches and improve your quality of life.

Trusted source

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13. 金鑫义,张敬丽.针灸结合穴位贴敷治疗丛集性头痛的临床研究[J].糖尿病天地 2020年17卷1期, 60,62页, 2020. https://xueshu.baidu.com/usercenter/paper/show?paperid=181c0tk0v6590p102b4506803a177367 ↩︎
14. Mao Q, Xu S, Wang Y, Wu D, Huang G, Li Z, Zhang X, Chi Z. Research hotspots and frontiers of cluster headaches: a bibliometric analysis. Front Neurol. 2024 Apr 25;15:1395770. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1395770. PMID: 38725643; PMCID: PMC11079126. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38725643/ ↩︎
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