The 200 most influential publications in migraine research: a bibliometric mapping of the intellectual landscape.

Researchers analyzed the 200 most influential scientific studies on migraine to understand what has shaped current treatment approaches. They examined publications from 45 countries, written by over 4,000 researchers, to identify the most important discoveries and trends in migraine research. The study found that leading research focuses on several key areas: new treatment options, genetic factors, how the nervous system triggers migraines, pain processing in the brain, immune system involvement, migraine aura, and conditions that often occur alongside migraines. Importantly, recent research shows growing interest in the connection between gut health and migraines (the brain-gut axis), which aligns with traditional medicine perspectives on digestive health and headaches. The analysis revealed that future migraine research will emphasize a specific protein system called CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide), which is now a target for newer migraine medications. The researchers highlighted that both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatments need more rigorous evaluation for long-term safety and effectiveness. For patients considering acupuncture for migraine management, this review confirms that the scientific community recognizes the importance of evaluating multiple treatment approaches beyond conventional medications. The study's emphasis on comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of therapies supports the integration of evidence-based complementary treatments into migraine care plans. If you're considering acupuncture for migraine relief, seek a licensed acupuncturist with specialized training in headache disorders.

This bibliometric analysis systematically reviewed the 200 most-cited publications in migraine research from Web of Science and PubMed databases, encompassing 4,409 authors from 1,592 institutions across 45 countries. Using bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace software, researchers mapped 860 keywords and 7,995 references to identify research trajectories and knowledge clusters. Analysis revealed current high-impact research emphasizes treatment modalities, therapeutic targets (particularly CGRP systems), genetics, trigeminovascular mechanisms, pain modulation pathways, neuroimmunology, aura phenomena, and comorbidities. Emerging trends demonstrate increased focus on the brain-gut axis, aligning with integrative medicine approaches. Ten landmark papers were identified as foundational to contemporary understanding. Clinical implications suggest future research will prioritize rigorous methodological evaluation of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, with emphasis on long-term safety and efficacy data. The recognition of multidimensional therapeutic assessment supports evidence-based integration of acupuncture within comprehensive migraine management protocols.