Tai Chi vs acupuncture for migraine prevention and brain changes

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In this randomized controlled trial, 132 Chinese women with episodic migraines are assigned to either a Tai Chi training program or a course of acupuncture over 24 weeks. Participants complete migraine diaries, questionnaires, and physical measurements, and undergo MRI and transcranial Doppler assessments to track brain structure and cerebrovascular function. The study aims to see if Tai Chi can match acupuncture in reducing migraine frequency and whether improvements relate to brain and vascular changes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Chinese women aged 18 years and above;
* Diagnosed with episodic migraines, with or without aura, according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3);
* Migraine attack frequency ranging from 2 to 14 days per month (≥15 days/month is classified as chronic migraine and is not included in this study);
* Assessed by a sports specialist as capable of engaging in moderate physical activity;
* Residing in Hong Kong.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to engage in moderate physical activity;
* Comorbid with other neurological disorders;
* Experiencing non-migraine headaches for more than 5 days per month;
* Previous practice of Tai Chi or other mind-body exercises (such as yoga, biofeedback, meditation, etc.);
* Received alternative treatments for migraines (such as acupuncture or Chinese medicine) during the recruitment period or within the past 12 weeks;
* Undergoing preventive medication treatment for migraines during the recruitment period or within the past 12 weeks;
* Excessive use of medication, taking antipsychotic or antidepressant drugs, or using analgesics for other chronic pain conditions for more than 3 days per month within the past 12 weeks;
* Diagnosed with epilepsy or having a mental illness;
* Pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently taking contraceptive medication.

Where it's running

• The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  Hung Hom, Hong Kong Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Yao Jie Xie, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• Study coordinator: Yao Jie Xie, PhD
• Email: grace.yj.xie@polyu.edu.hk
• Phone: (852) 3400 3798

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.