The research question
A single-center randomized trial published in JAMA Network Open in 2026 examined the short-term effects of acupuncture in people with migraine without aura. The study in China randomly assigned 120 participants aged 18 to 65 to two groups of 60. Each group received 12 sessions over four weeks.
What was compared
One group received acupuncture; the control group received superficial needling at non-acupuncture points. The control was therefore not free of skin stimulation. The primary outcome was the change from baseline in monthly migraine days during treatment. Participants and outcome assessors were blinded to assignment.
What the trial reported
The authors reported a greater improvement in migraine days in the acupuncture group. The median between-group difference in change was about one fewer migraine day per month, with a 95% confidence interval from two fewer days to no difference. That interval reflects uncertainty; it does not mean every person will have one fewer day.
What remains uncertain
The trial was relatively small and primarily assessed four-week outcomes, so it cannot establish long-term effects or be generalized to everyone with headache. The authors also explored associations between brain imaging and response. Those predictive findings require independent validation and are not a reliable tool for predicting an individual’s benefit. Discuss treatment choices with a qualified health professional.
Sources
These links lead to original documents or official organizations.