The effects of acupuncture versus placebo in the treatment of headache

Abstract

Forty-eight patients were entered into a placebo (mock TNS[transcutaneous nerve stimulator]) vs. acupuncture study to assess the effect of these therapies on headache. Treatment was evaluated by the use of patient diaries; each patient completed a daily diary for 4 wk prior to treatment during 6 wk of therapy and for 24 wk of follow-up. Thirty-nine patients completed treatment and follow-up. At most acupuncture appears to be .apprx. 20% more effective than a placebo in alleviating headache but no statistically significant difference between these 2 treatments could be demonstrated.