Medical acupuncture in the fight against headaches.

An ancient technique, now recognized as a medical specialty, is gaining ground in the complementary treatment of migraines and chronic headaches.

Headache is one of the most frequent medical complaints worldwide and can range from mild discomfort to intense migraine attacks. Estimates indicate that millions of Brazilians suffer from recurring headaches, impacting productivity and quality of life. The World Health Organization (WHO) itself classifies migraine among the most disabling medical conditions, due to the degree of limitation it can cause. Given this scenario, the acupuncture It stands out as an important ally in relieving headaches – not surprisingly, the technique has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and, since 1995, has been recognized by the Federal Council of Medicine (CFM) as a medical specialty in Brazil.

Clinics and healthcare services across the country are already incorporating acupuncture into the management of tension headaches and migraines. In the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), for example, the treatment is offered free of charge to the population – approximately 1 million acupuncture sessions are conducted annually, according to data from the Ministry of Health. Professionals report that many patients seek acupuncture to reduce the continuous use of analgesics, which can cause side effects and even trigger rebound headaches (headaches induced by excessive use of medication).

Promising clinical evidence: Scientific studies have been demonstrating the benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of headaches. A meta-analysis that compiled 34 randomized clinical trials involving more than 3 migraine patients found that acupuncture therapy can significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks. For example, in this set of studies, patients treated with acupuncture had an average of two fewer migraine attacks per month, in addition to reporting less intense pain, compared to those who did not receive the treatment. Other studies also point to benefits in chronic tension headaches – about half of the patients undergoing regular acupuncture sessions showed a reduction of at least 50% in the monthly frequency of tension headaches. These results reinforce the scientific nature of medical acupuncture and have led to greater recognition of the technique among neurologists and other specialists.

The mechanism of action of acupuncture in headaches is still under investigation, but research suggests that stimulating specific points with very fine needles leads to the release of the body's own natural analgesic substances, such as endorphins and serotonin, in addition to promoting a modulating effect on nerve pathways linked to pain. "Acupuncture is an important medical practice with a robust scientific foundation," emphasizes Dr. Janete Bandeira, director of CMBA, pointing out that pain treatment is one of the fields in which this therapy stands out most. Unlike medications, acupuncture rarely presents significant adverse effects when performed correctly.

Safety and recommendations: Because acupuncture is a medical procedure, it should only be performed by qualified physicians with a Specialist Qualification Registration (RQE) in Acupuncture. Organizations such as the Brazilian Medical College of Acupuncture (CMBA) and the São Paulo Medical College of Acupuncture (CMAeSP) advise patients to verify that the professional has adequate training to avoid risks. Furthermore, before starting sessions, a thorough medical diagnosis is essential, as a headache can be a symptom of serious conditions (such as brain tumors or meningitis). In these cases, acupuncture may help relieve pain, but it should not mask or replace the investigation and appropriate treatment of the underlying cause.

When applied by unqualified professionals, there are significant risks involved. The Brazilian Federal Council of Medicine (CFM) has warned about serious complications in patients treated by non-physicians, including lung perforation (pneumothorax) and infections. On the other hand, under the care of a specialist physician, acupuncture is considered safe and can be effectively integrated into the therapeutic plan for those suffering from chronic headaches.

In summary, medical acupuncture emerges as a valuable and well-founded tool in combating headaches. Used in a complementary way – and never as a replacement – ​​to conventional treatments, it can provide significant relief for many patients, improving their well-being and reducing dependence on medication. With the support of institutions such as CFM, CREMESP, CMBA and CMAeSP, this medical specialty has established itself as a safe and effective therapeutic option, available in both the public and private sectors.