International Journal on Science and Technology

E-ISSN: 2229-7677     Impact Factor: 9.88

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 17 Issue 3 July-September 2026 Submit your research before last 3 days of September to publish your research paper in the issue of July-September.

Effectiveness of Electro-Acupuncture in the Management of Cervicogenic Headache Associated with Digital Gadget Overuse Among Young Adults

Author(s) Akash M.D., R. Kiran, Bhumika, Komala, Bharadwaj, Dr. Parameshwara M.N.
Country India
Abstract Background: Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary headache arising from cervical spine and soft-tissue disorders. Prolonged digital gadget use among young adults promotes sustained forward-head posture and cervical muscle strain, increasing the incidence of technology-related CGH. Electro-acupuncture is a non-pharmacological modality that may reduce pain, muscle stiffness, and disability.
Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of electro-acupuncture in the management of cervicogenic headache associated with digital gadget overuse among young adults.
Materials and Methods: A prospective single-group pre–post study was conducted on 10 participants aged 18–30 years with cervicogenic headache linked to digital gadget overuse. Electro-acupuncture was applied to selected points (GB20, GB21, GV20, LI4, LI11) for 20–30 minutes once daily for 10 consecutive days at 2–10 Hz with mild-to-moderate intensity. Outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) before and after the intervention. Data were analysed with paired t-tests.
Results: Significant improvements were observed across all measures: VAS decreased from 5.50 ± 1.58 to 3.30 ± 1.83 (p = 0.000765); NDI from 25.50 ± 6.59 to 18.10 ± 5.32 (p = 0.000005); MAS from 2.40 ± 1.17 to 0.80 ± 0.79 (p = 0.000049); and NPRS from 5.40 ± 1.07 to 2.40 ± 1.43 (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion: Electro-acupuncture significantly reduced pain intensity, muscle stiffness, neck disability, and headache-related pain scores in young adults with technology-related cervicogenic headache. It appears to be a safe and effective non-pharmacological option. Larger controlled trials are warranted.
Keywords Cervicogenic headache; electro-acupuncture; digital gadget overuse; young adults; neck disability; muscle stiffness; Visual Analogue Scale
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 17, Issue 3, July-September 2026
Published On 2026-08-22

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