Acupuncture has long been recognized as an effective treatment for tension headaches. In my practice, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits acupuncture can bring. Over the years, various studies have highlighted how acupuncture helps reduce tension headaches, but now a recently published study provides compelling evidence that acupuncture can significantly reduce both the frequency and intensity of headaches.
This research also sheds light on the effectiveness of a specific acupuncture technique known as “de qi,” adding to our understanding of why acupuncture works so well.
This research also sheds light on the effectiveness of a specific acupuncture technique known as “de qi,” adding to our understanding of why acupuncture works so well.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Study
- Large-scale study with 218 participants examined acupuncture’s impact on tension headaches.
- Participants received 20 acupuncture treatments over eight weeks.
- Two groups: one with de qi stimulation, one on superficial points.
Results:
- Both groups experienced fewer headache days.
- De qi group saw a greater reduction—from 22 days to 7 days per month.
- Superficial acupuncture group also improved, reducing from 22 days to 11 days per month.
- Pain intensity and reliance on pain medication decreased in both groups, highlighting acupuncture’s effectiveness in managing tension headaches.
Treatment Protocol for Chronic Tension-Type Headaches
The sessions began with three sessions per week for the first four weeks, then reduced to two sessions per week over the next four weeks.
Acupuncturists typically use a combination of points, such as:
Fengchi (GB20): Helps relieve tension around the head and neck.
Baihui (GV20): A calming point on the top of the head, commonly used for headaches and stress.
Taiyang (EX-HN5): Relieves temporal headaches.
Hegu (LI4): Known for pain relief, especially in the face and head.
Taichong (LR3): Releases tension and balances qi flow throughout the body.
De Qi Sensation: The therapist should stimulate each point to achieve de qi, using manual manipulation to grab the qi twice during each session. This approach enhances the analgesic effects of acupuncture, with results shown to persist for up to 32 weeks after the last session
What is De Qi? A Deeper Look
De qi translates to “obtaining the qi,” or stimulating the body’s vital energy, which flows through pathways known as meridians. Qi plays a crucial role in health by supporting various physiological functions and promoting self-healing.
When de qi is achieved, patients may feel sensations like tingling, heaviness, or a deep ache around the needle site. This feedback is a positive sign that qi has been stimulated and is moving. The sensation is sometimes likened to catching a fish on a line, where the needle feels like it’s “grabbed” by the surrounding tissues. Achieving de qi suggests that the body’s energy is being activated to address imbalances that may be causing pain or discomfort.
How De Qi Works
From a traditional perspective, de qi invigorates the body’s energy, helping it circulate more effectively. When energy is stagnant or blocked, it can result in symptoms like headaches, pain, and fatigue. By stimulating the qi at key acupuncture points, such as Large Intestine 4 (LI4) and Liver 3 (LV3), de qi helps clear blockages, allowing energy to flow freely, which can relieve pain and tension.
Research suggests that the de qi sensation correlates with specific neurological responses. When the needle “grabs,” or stimulates the tissue, it activates local sensory nerves, which then send signals to the central nervous system. These signals prompt the release of endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals. Studies have shown that acupuncture can also increase blood flow to targeted areas, which may aid in reducing muscle tension and promoting healing. Thus, de qi doesn’t just move energy in a metaphorical sense; it also elicits physiological responses that contribute to pain relief and tissue repair.
How Acupuncture Treats Tension Headaches Holistically
Acupuncture addresses tension headaches in numerous ways.
Muscle Relaxation: By inserting needles into specific points, acupuncture can help relax the muscles that may be tight or knotted, particularly those around the head, neck, and shoulders. In this study, the de qi stimulation was shown to have a stronger impact on pain reduction, likely because of its ability to release deep-seated muscular tension more effectively than lighter needling techniques.
Stress Reduction: Stress is a common trigger for tension headaches, and acupuncture has well-documented effects on reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Acupuncture’s ability to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system helps counteract the “fight or flight” response associated with stress. Many patients find that regular acupuncture sessions not only reduce their headache frequency but also improve their overall sense of well-being.
Blood Flow and Circulation: Tension headaches can sometimes result from reduced blood flow to the head. Acupuncture, particularly with de qi, has been shown to increase circulation, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients reach the muscles and tissues in the affected areas.
Feel better, Get Acupuncture!
As an acupuncturist, I often see patients with chronic tension-type headaches who seek a treatment option that not only addresses their symptoms but also offers a sustainable, long-term benefit without the reliance on medication.
The findings demonstrate that acupuncture can substantially reduce headache frequency and severity over an extended period. In this case, benefits persisted up to eight months post-treatment, highlighting acupuncture’s ability to provide enduring relief through natural pathways that facilitate self-healing.
References:
- Zheng H, Gao T, Zheng Q-H, et al. Acupuncture for patients with chronic tension-type headache: A randomized controlled trial. Neurology. Published online June 22, 2022. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000200670
