Search for the clinical effectiveness of Korean Tae-Geuk acupuncture therapy in chronic tension-type headache

Background

Korean acupuncture comes from the far-eastern tradition and has unique approaches to acupuncture point selection.

Objectives

There are several types of acupuncture methods. Among these, Tae-Geuk acupuncture and Saam acupuncture adopt five phase characteristics, using five vital points. Cho-sun acupuncture regulates Qi using acupunctures and meridians according to the flow of Qi. In this project, the effects of Korean Tae-Geuk acupuncture on chronic tension-type headache (TTH) were examined.

Methods

This study is a randomized controlled study involving sham acupuncture (placebo acupuncture), and everything is clear except for the data processing phase. The purpose of the study; was to measure the safety and efficacy of Korean Tae-Geuk acupuncture in patients with chronic TTH. Groups used; acupunture + traditional pharmacological therapy, traditional pharmacological therapy only and placebo korean acupuncture + traditional pharmacological therapy groups. Seven treatment sessions were applied over a four-week period. Changes in pain and quality of life and side effects were examined during treatment and within 3 months after the completion of treatment. Results were evaluated by using the visual analog scale for pain and pain log records.

Results

Korean Tae-Geuk acupuncture is a more effective treatment than placebo and traditional pharmacological treatment in chronic TTH. Korea Tae-Geuk acupuncture showed significant improvement in clinically chronic TTH during treatment and in 3 months follow-up after treatment.

Conclusion

Tae-Geuk acupuncture is a treatment branch of Sasang Constitution Medicine. Acupuncture points do not change according to acupuncture practitioner or disease.