Background:Acupuncture is widely used in modulating brain excitability and motor function,as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.However,there is no existing meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness and...Background:Acupuncture is widely used in modulating brain excitability and motor function,as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.However,there is no existing meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture on corticospinal excitability(CSE),and the credibility of the evidence has yet to be quantified.Objective:This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture(EA)and manual acupuncture(MA)in enhancing brain excitability,specifically focusing on CSE as measured by transcranial magnetic stimulation(TMS).Search strategy:This study followed a systematic approach,searching 9 databases up to August 2024 and examining grey literature,in compliance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Inclusion criteria:Studies were included if they compared the clinical efficacy of EA or MA with sham acupuncture,no treatment or usual training.Data extraction and analysis:Three investigators independently conducted literature screening,data extraction,and risk of bias assessment.The primary outcome focused on motor-evoked potentials as measured by TMS,with treatment effects quantified using mean differences or standardized mean differences between pre-and post-treatment.Subgroup analyses were conducted using mixed-effects models,while random-effects or fixed-effects models were used to estimate average treatment differences across studies.Results:Based on 34 studies involving 1031 adults,acupuncture techniques significantly enhanced CSE.EA had a greater impact than MA,with effect sizes of 0.53 mV vs 0.43 mV(95%confidence interval[CI]:[0.30,0.76],P<0.00001 vs 95%CI:[0.28,0.59],P<0.00001).The 5 most frequently used acupoints were LI4(Hegu,32 times),ST36(Zusanli,10 times),LI11(Quchi,7 times),TE5(Waiguan,6 times),and GB34(Yanglingquan,5 times).Conclusion:This systematic review indicates that both EA and MA could effectively and safely enhance CSE,bringing the corticospinal pathway closer to the threshold for firing,which may ultimately improve motor function.LI4,ST36,LI11,TE5 and GB34 are the most commonly used acupoints.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to ...Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups:normal,sham operation,model,and TMTP Tuina.Successful model induction was confirmed by observable hind limb lameness.After 20 sessions,hind limb grip strength and motor nerve conduction velocity(MNCV)were measured at baseline and following the 10th and 20th intervention.CD31 and a-SMA in the ventral horn of SNI model rats were detected using immunofluorescence.Motor neurons in the ventral horn were detected by Nissl staining.PTEN levels in the ventral horn were measured by ELISA,and PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF,and HIF-1a expression was determined by RT-PCR.Spinal cord microcirculation was evaluated by western blotting analysis of the levels of Akt,p-Akt,BDNF,and VEGF.Results:Hind limb grip strength and MNCV significantly improved in the TMTP Tuina group compared to the model group(both P<.001).Morphology of ventral horn motor neurons in the TMTP Tuina group improved compared to the model group,with increased expressions of a-SMA(P=.002)and CD31(P=.006).Western blot analysis indicated increased expression of VEGF(P=.005),p-Akt(P<.001),and BDNF(P=.008)in the ventral horn following Tuina treatment.RT-PCR analysis revealed increased expression of PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF and HIF-1a(all P<.05).In contrast,expression of PTEN decreased compared to the model group(P<.001).Conclusion:TMTP Tuina therapy may restore motor function in rats,enhance ventral horn motor neuron morphology,and promote angiogenesis and vascular smooth muscle proliferation.The mechanism may involve the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.展开更多
Gastric ulcer(GU)is a common digestive system disease.Acupuncture,as one of the external treatments of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),has the characteristics of multi-target,multi-pathway and multi-level action in ...Gastric ulcer(GU)is a common digestive system disease.Acupuncture,as one of the external treatments of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),has the characteristics of multi-target,multi-pathway and multi-level action in the treatment of GU.The relationship between meridian points and Zang-fu is an important part of the theory of TCM,which is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.There is an external and internal link between acupoints and Zang-fu.The pathological reaction of Zang-fu can manifest as acupoint sensitization,while stimulation of acupoints can play a therapeutic role in the internal Zang-fu.Therefore,the acupoint has the functions of reflecting and treating diseases.This review explores the tender points on the body surface of patients with GU and the rules of acupoint selection.In addition,Zusanli(ST36),as one of the most used acupoints of the stomach meridian,was selected to show the mechanisms behind acupoint stimulation in the treatment of GU in greater detail,specifically in the well-studied model of the stress GU(SGU).Hence,the mechanisms of acupuncture at ST36 and points commonly used in combination with ST36 to treat SGU are discussed further.Treatment effects can be achieved through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities,gastric mucosal injury repair,and interaction with the brain-gut axis.In summary,this review provides evidence for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena and mechanism of acupoint functions for GU.展开更多
Objective To observe the effect of electroacupuncture at ear and body acupoints for the instant fasting blood glucose of model machins with type 2 diabetes mellitus（T2DM）.Methods For 10 machins with type2 diabetes,t...Objective To observe the effect of electroacupuncture at ear and body acupoints for the instant fasting blood glucose of model machins with type 2 diabetes mellitus（T2DM）.Methods For 10 machins with type2 diabetes,the electroacupuncture was applied at ＂Zusanli＂（足三里 ST 36）,＂Sanyinjiao＂（三阴交 SP 6） and three ＂Jiangtangdian＂（降糖点） in the ear continuously for 5 days,with the frequency of 2/15 Hz（The 2 Hz and the 15 Hz were transferred every second） and current of2 mA.The treatment was given once every day for 30 min.The fasting blood glucose was measured before acupuncture,after acupuncture for15 min and 30 min in the 5 days.Results On the first day,after 30-minute acupuncture the fasting blood glucose was reduced obviously compared with that before treatment（P〈0.01）.On the third and the fifth days,after acupuncture for 15 min and 30 min the fasting blood glucose was apparently lower than that before acupuncture（all P〈0.05）.On the fourth day,after acupuncture for 30 min the fasting blood glucose was decreased markedly than that before acupuncture（P〈0.05）.After 30-minute acupuncture on the fifth day,the fasting blood glucose was lower obviously than that before treatment on the first day（P〈0.05）.Conclusion ①The electroacupuncture at ear and body acupoints can reduce the instant fasting blood glucose of T2 DM machins apparently.② There is time effect on instant fasting blood glucose of T2 DM machins treated by electroacupuncture.The efficacy of 30-minute stimulation is superior to that of 15-minute acupuncture.After acupuncture continuously for 4 days,the effect is better than that with acupuncture for3 days successively.展开更多
Objective To compare the effects between acupuncture combined with moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints and acupuncture on irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea （IBS-D）. Methods Sixty-four cases were randomly di...Objective To compare the effects between acupuncture combined with moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints and acupuncture on irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea （IBS-D）. Methods Sixty-four cases were randomly divided into an acupuncture and moxibustion group （n=32） and an acupuncture group （n=32）. Conventional acupuncture at Tiānshū （天枢 ST 14）, Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36）, Gōngsūn （公孙 SP 4） and other acupoints was used in the two groups, and moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints was added in the acupuncture and moxibustion group. The treatment frequency was 5 times a week, and 4 weeks were a course. After 2 courses, the therapeutic effect was evaluated. Results The clinical symptom scores after treatment in two groups decreased obviously than those before treatment （both P〈0.01）. The cured and markedly effective rate in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was 87.5% （28/32）, and that in the acupuncture group was 37.5% （12/32）, so the effect in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was better than that in the acupuncture group （P〈0.01）. The improvement of all kinds of symptom scores in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was all better than that in the acupuncture group （all P〈0.05）. Conclusion The clinical effect of acupuncture combined with moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints on IBS-D is better than that of acupuncture.展开更多
Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of warm needling on the four knee acupoints in the treatment of knee pain after stroke on the basis of Chinese herb. Methods Sixty patients with knee pain after stroke were d...Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of warm needling on the four knee acupoints in the treatment of knee pain after stroke on the basis of Chinese herb. Methods Sixty patients with knee pain after stroke were divided into a group A and a group B by random allocation, with 30 patients in each group. Patients in the group B only received the treatment by Chinese herb, which called Dúhuó Jìshēng Tāng（独活寄生汤 Pubescent Angelica and Mistletoe Decoction, add or remove ingredients depending on conditions）; patients in the group A additionally received warm needling on the basis of Chinese herb. Four knee acupoints were selected as master acupoints and Hèd ng（鹤顶 EXLE 2）, Yánglíngquán（阳陵泉 GB 34） and Zúsānl（足三里 ST 36） as combining acupoints. Perpendicular insertion was conducted on Xuèh i（血海 SP 10） and Liángqiū（梁丘 ST 34） for approximately 1 cun, and oblique insertion on Nèixīy n（内膝眼 EX-LE 4） and Dúbí（犊鼻 ST 35） for approximately 1 cun at 45° in inner and upper direction to push needle tip into joint cavity. After deqi, moxibustion stick was cut to 1.5 cm long, ignited, and inserted into the needle handles in the four knee acupoints. 1–2 strips were applied. After the moxa cones were burned up, needles were retained for 10 min. 7 d was a course of treatment and observation lasted for consecutive four courses. Visual analogue scale（VAS） and Barthel Index（BI） were adopted as observational indices. Clinical efficacy was classified as clinical cured, markedly effective, effective and ineffective according to the standards described in Guidelines of Clinical Research on Chinese New Herbal Medicine. Results After treatment, total effective rate was 93.3% in the group A, including full recovery in 8 cases, markedly effective in 15 cases, effective in 5 cases, and ineffective in 2 cases; while the total effective rate was 73.3% in the group B. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant（P0.05）. In the group A, VAS scores were 6.53 ± 1.39 before treatment and 1.53 ± 0.80 after treatment and BI scores were 58.38±8.67 before treatment and 67.55 ± 12.99 after treatment; in the group B, VAS scores were 6.63 ± 1.81 before treatment and 3.33 ± 0.96 after treatment and BI scores were 57.89 ± 9.65 before treatment and 64.87 ± 12.18 after treatment. Both VAS and BI scores were improved significantly in the two groups after treatment and the improvements were statistically significant（all P0.05）. Furthermore, both VAS and BI scores of group A were superior to that of group B（P0.05）. Conclusion Additional treatment of warm needling on the four knee acupoints on the basis of Chinese herb can enhance the clinical efficacy in treatment of knee pain after stroke, contribute to the rapid recovery of knee function and improve the life quality of stroke patients.展开更多
Objective To probe into the impacts on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） in ischemic brain tissue treated with cluster puncture on scalp acupoints in rats, Methods 128 rats were randomized ...Objective To probe into the impacts on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） in ischemic brain tissue treated with cluster puncture on scalp acupoints in rats, Methods 128 rats were randomized into pseudo-operation group, model group, scalp-needling group and cluster-needling group, In scalp-needling group, penetration method was used on the focal side from Bǎihuì （百会 GV20） to Qǔbīn （曲鬓 GB7）, and in cluster-needling group, penetration method was used on both sides from GV20 to GB7, and a common needling on GV 20. Needles were punctured 2 mm in depth, constantly rotated for 10min, retained for 2 h. Immunohistrochemical method was applied to determine VEGF expression and microvessel density （MVD）. Results With the intervention of cluster puncture on scalp acupoints, VEGF： expressions on every time-spot after ischemia were enhanced apparently, superior to those in scalp-needling group. On the three time-spots of the 7^th, 14^th and 21^st days, MVD was increased after cluster puncture on scale acupoints, superior to those in scalp-needling group. Conclusion Cluster puncture on scalp acupoints up-regulated VEGF expression and promoted regeneration of microvessel.展开更多
Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoin...Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoints entirely along the injured nerve trunk and neglecting other regions; this may delay onset of treatment efficacy and rehabilitation. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints combined （GV/LM group） with acupuncture at local meridian acupoints alone （LM group） in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. In the GV/LM group （n = 15）, in addition to meridian acupoints at the injury site, the following acupoints on the Governor vessel were stimulated： Baihui （GV20）, Fengfu （GV16）, Dazhui （GV14）, and Shenzhu （GV12）, selected to treat nerve injury of the upper limb, and Jizhong （GV6）, Mingmen （GV4）, Yaoyangguan （GV3）, and Yaoshu （GV2） to treat nerve injury of the lower limb. In the LM group （n = 15）, only me- ridian acupoints along the injured nerve were selected. Both groups had electroacupuncture treatment for 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times per week, for 6 weeks. Two cases dropped out of the LM group. A good or excellent clinical response was obtained in 80% of the patients in the GV/ LM group and 38.5% of the LM group. In a second study, an additional 20 patients underwent acupuncture with the same prescription as the GV/LM group. Electomyographic nerve conduc- tion tests were performed before and after acupuncture to explore the mechanism of action of the treatment. An effective response was observed in 80.0% of the patients, with greater motor nerve conduction velocity and amplitude after treatment, indicating that electroacupuncture on specific Governor vessel acupoints promotes functional motor nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. In addition, electromyography was performed before, during and after electroacu- puncture in one patient with radial nerve injury. After a single session, the patient＇s motor nerve conduction velocity increased by 23.2%, indicating that electroacupuncture at Governor vessel acupoints has an immediate therapeutic effect on peripheral nerve injury. Our results indicate that Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints used simultaneously promote functional repair after peripheral nerve injury. The mechanism of action may arise from an improvement of the local microenvironment in injured nervous tissue, as well as immediate effects of Governor vessel and local meridian acupoint stimulation to ensure the continuity between the peripheral and central nervous systems.展开更多
Objective:Varied acupoint selections represent a potential cause of the uncertainty surrounding the efficacy of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis(OA).Skin temperature,a guiding factor for acupoint selection,may help...Objective:Varied acupoint selections represent a potential cause of the uncertainty surrounding the efficacy of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis(OA).Skin temperature,a guiding factor for acupoint selection,may help to address this issue.This study explored thermal sensitization of acupoints used for the treatment of knee OA.Methods:This cross-sectional case-control study enrolled cases aged 45–75 years with symptomatic knee OA and age-and gender-matched non-knee OA controls in a 1:1 ratio.All participants underwent infrared thermographic imaging.The primary outcome was the relative skin temperature of acupoint(STA),and the secondary outcome was the absolute STA of 11 acupoints.The Z test was used to compare the relative and absolute STAs between the groups.Principal component analysis was used to extract the common factors(CFs,acupoint cluster)in the STAs.A general linear model was used to identify factors affecting the STA in the knee OA cases.For the group comparisons of relative STA,P<0.0045(adjusted for 11 acupoints through Bonferroni correction)was considered to indicate statistical significance.For other analyses,P<0.05 was used as the threshold for statistical significance.Results:The analysis included 308 participants,consisting of 151 cases(mean age:[64.58±6.67]years;male:25.83%;mean body mass index:[25.70±3.16]kg/m~2)and 157 controls(mean age:[63.37±5.96]years;male:26.11%;mean body mass index:[24.47±2.84]kg/m~2).The relative STAs of ST34(P=0.0001),EX-LE2(P<0.0001),EX-LE5(P=0.0006),SP10(P<0.0001),BL40(P=0.0012)and GB39(P=0.0037)were higher in the knee OA group.No difference was found in the STAs of ST35,ST36,SP9,GB33 and GB34.Four CFs were identified for relative STA in both groups.The acupoints within each CF were consistent between the groups.The mean values of the relative STAs across each CF were higher in the knee OA group.In the knee OA cases,no factors were observed to affect the relative STA,while age and gender were found to affect the absolute STA.Conclusion:Among patients with knee OA,thermal sensitization occurs in the acupoints of the lower extremity,exhibiting localized and regional thermal consistencies.The thermally sensitized acupoints that we identified in this study,ST34,SP10,EX-LE2,EX-LE5,GB39 and BL40,may be good choices for the acupuncture treatment of knee OA.展开更多
Objective:To explore the core acupuncture acupoints and pattern-adapted acupoint combination rules for autism spectrum disorder(ASD)complicated with sleep disorder using clinical data mining technology.Methods:A retro...Objective:To explore the core acupuncture acupoints and pattern-adapted acupoint combination rules for autism spectrum disorder(ASD)complicated with sleep disorder using clinical data mining technology.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the diagnosis and treatment data of 104 children with ASD complicated with sleep disorder admitted to Xi’an Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Encephalopathy Hospital from January 2022 to December 2024.Cross-pattern main acupoints were screened via frequency statistics,chi-square test,and factor analysis;pattern-specific auxiliary acupoints were extracted by combining multiple correspondence analysis,cluster analysis,and association rule mining.Results:Ten cross-pattern main acupoints(Baihui,Sishenzhen,Language Area 1,Language Area 2,Neiguan,Shenmen,Yongquan,Xuanzhong)were identified,and acupoint combination schemes for four major TCM patterns(Hyperactivity of Liver and Heart Fire,Deficiency of Kidney Essence,Deficiency of Both Heart and Spleen,Hyperactivity of Liver with Spleen Deficiency)were established.Conclusion:Acupuncture treatment should follow the principle of“regulating spirit and calming the brain as the root,and dredging collaterals based on pattern differentiation as the branch”.The synergy between main and auxiliary acupoints can accurately regulate the disease,providing a basis for precise clinical treatment.展开更多
Objective To observe therapeutic effects of scalp acupuncture at close acupoints combined with rehabilitation training on balance functions of children with cerebral palsy （CP）. Methods Sixty children with CP were r...Objective To observe therapeutic effects of scalp acupuncture at close acupoints combined with rehabilitation training on balance functions of children with cerebral palsy （CP）. Methods Sixty children with CP were randomly divided into a scalp acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training group （group SA＋RT） and a rehabilitation training group （group RT） with 30 cases in each group. Conventional rehabilitation therapy and balance training were applied in group RT, and scalp acupuncture at close acupoints in the parietal region and sub-occipital region was added besides rehabilitation training in group SA＋RT. Balance functions were evaluated by using Berg rating scale, and abilities of daily living were estimated by using rating scale for activities of daily living （ADL）. Results After treatment, both Berg scores for balance and ADL scores were significantly improved in both groups （all P0.05）, and the improvement in group SA＋RT was more obvious than that in group RT （ both P0.05）. Conclusion Combination of scalp acupuncture at close acupoints with rehabilitation training is superior to simple rehabilitation training in improving balance functions and activities of daily living in children with cerebral palsy.展开更多
The common acupoints and meridians for gynecology as well as their biophysical characteristics were summarized,the importance of biophysical characteristics for common meridians and acupoints were pointed out,some new...The common acupoints and meridians for gynecology as well as their biophysical characteristics were summarized,the importance of biophysical characteristics for common meridians and acupoints were pointed out,some new research fields for fundamental study on common acupoints in gynecology were put forward,such as proteomics,genomics,transcriptomics,and other fields,and further evidence support for large-sample randomized controlled trials were appealed.展开更多
Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut i...Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut implantation group （CI） with 6 rats in each group. Animals in group MO and group CI were treated by trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid （TNBS） to establish model with colitis. No other treatment was given to the rats in group MO, but catgut was implanted at ＂Shàngjùxū＂ （上 巨虚 ST 37）, ＂Tiānshū＂ （天枢 ST 25） and ＂Dàchángshū＂ （大肠俞 BL 25） in the rats in group CI. The symptoms of diarrhea and bloody stool, and changes in histopathology were detected 15 days after the treatment. Expressions of splenic lymphocyte nuclear factor κB p65（NF-κB p65）and correlated signaling molecules（β2AR）were detected by the western blot method. Results Diarrhea and mucus bloody purulent stool were soon controlled, and mucous injures were obviously improved in group CI. The NF-κB p65 value of splenic lymphocytes was signifi cantly increased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably reduced in group MO （P0.01）, compared with group NC. But, the NF-κB p65 value was significantly decreased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably increased in group CI （P 0.01） , compared with group MO. Conclusion Catgut implantation at acupoints is obviously effective in treating experimental colitis. Modulation of NF-κB p65 and the correlated signaling molecules β2AR may be involved in the mechanisms.展开更多
Objective:To compare the efficacy of using“distal acupoints only”vs.“local acupoints mainly combined with distal acupoints”in cases of acute low back pain(ALBP).Methods: A total of 102 eligible patients aged 18–6...Objective:To compare the efficacy of using“distal acupoints only”vs.“local acupoints mainly combined with distal acupoints”in cases of acute low back pain(ALBP).Methods: A total of 102 eligible patients aged 18–65 years with ALBP lasting less than 6 weeks will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the distal acupoints only group(DPOG)and the local acupoints mainly combined with the distal acupoints group(LPMG).During a 4-week treatment period,patients in the DPOG will receive acupuncture at distal acupoints only(Houxi[SI 3]and Yaotongxue[EX-UE 7])twice a week,while those in the LPMG group will receive acupuncture at local acupoints(mainly Shenshu[BL 23]and Dachangshu[BL 25])combined with distal points(Weizhong[BL 40]).The patients in both groups will be evaluated at every session of treatment,and the follow-up will be performed for 3 months.The primary outcome measure will be the change in ALBP intensity,assessed using visual analogue scale scores before and after treatment.The secondary outcome measure will be the evaluation of functional disability using the Oswestry Disability Index.Discussion: This study compares the DPOG and LPMG to explore the feasibility of the DPOG in the treatment of ALBP.展开更多
Objective To observe the comparison of the clinical efficacy between penetration needling from Neiguan （内关 PC 6） to Waiguan （外关 TE 5） and western medicine estazolam for insomnia. Methods Sixty insomnia patient...Objective To observe the comparison of the clinical efficacy between penetration needling from Neiguan （内关 PC 6） to Waiguan （外关 TE 5） and western medicine estazolam for insomnia. Methods Sixty insomnia patients were divided into 2 groups according to the random number table, 30 cases in each group. Penetration needling from PC 6 to TE 5 was mainly adopted in acupuncture group for once a day, 5timesa week, and treatment for 4 weeks was 1 course of treatment. Estazolam was orally given in medicine group before sleep every night in a dosage of 1 mg per time, and treatment for 4 weeks was 2 course of treatment. After 4 weeks, the clinical efficacy and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI） score were compared respectively between the two groups. Results The total effective rate was 90.00% in acupuncture group and 63.33% in medicine group, and the difference was statistically significant （P〈0.05）. PSQI score in acupuncture group was （7.93＋3.77）, which was superior to that in medicine group （10.60＋4.20）, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant （P〈0.05）. Conclusion The penetration needling of complementary acupoints from PC 6 to TE 5 was simple and convenient which can significantly improve the patients＇ sleep quality.展开更多
To explore and study the significant value of ＂Tianyou（天牖 TE 16） five acupoints＂ in treatment of clinical diseases based on analysis of three cases.Case 1：thyroid enlargement.Acupuncture was conducted at Renyin...To explore and study the significant value of ＂Tianyou（天牖 TE 16） five acupoints＂ in treatment of clinical diseases based on analysis of three cases.Case 1：thyroid enlargement.Acupuncture was conducted at Renying（人迎 ST 9）,Futu（扶突 LI 18）,Shuitu（水突 ST 10） and Qishe（气舍 ST 11）,and combined with Neiguan（内关 PC 6）.After ten courses of treatment,nodules and calcified lesions shrank.Case 2：hyperplasia of mammary glands.Acupuncture was conducted at bilateral ST 9 and TE 16,and combined with Taichong（太冲 LR 3） and Danzhong（膻中 CV 17）.After eight courses of treatment,the breast lumps disappeared.Case 3：hyperprolactinemia,and amenorrhea for two years.Acupuncture was conducted at bilateral ST 9,TE 16 and Tianfu（天府 LU 3）,and combined with LR 3 and Xiaxi（侠溪 GB 43）.After eleven courses of treatment,the content of prolactin was normal.展开更多
Objective To evaluate the influence of the tissue specificity of the acupoints （different meridians, tissues and nerve segments） on the frequency, intensity and current flow output in association with electroacupunc...Objective To evaluate the influence of the tissue specificity of the acupoints （different meridians, tissues and nerve segments） on the frequency, intensity and current flow output in association with electroacupuncture （EA） sensations. Methods Twenty one volunteers received EA. According to the tissue specificities of acupoints, 5 acupoint pairs were selected, named Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Yánglíngquán （阳陵泉 GB 34, different meridians）, Nèiguān （内关 PC 6） vs Dàlíng （大陵 PC 7, different tissues）, Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Shuǐdào （水道 ST 28, different nerve segments）, Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） vs Zhōngwǎn （中脘 CV 12, different nerve segments）, and Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Guānyuán （关元 CV 4, different meridians, tissues and nerve segments）. The electric frequency was 15 Hz. The electric current was under the subject’s tolerance without sharp pain induced. EA lasted 90 s with 3 discontinuities. The sensations, such as soreness, numbness, fullness/distention, heaviness, tingling, pressure, dull pain, hotness and coldness were recorded as well as the current flow output in association with the needling sensations. The differences in the frequency, intensity and current flow output relevant with the needling sensations were compared among the different acupoint pairs. Results There were no significant differences in the frequency of the needling sensations among the different acupoint pairs （all P〉0.05）. Of 9 different sensations of EA, fullness/distention, numbness and soreness presented the most commonly and remarkably; heaviness, pressure and tingling were on the second top; dull pain, hotness and coldness occurred at the lower frequency. There were the differences in the intensity of some needling sensations among the acupoint pairs, in which, the intensity of soreness, fullness/distention and heaviness was stronger at Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Shuǐdào （水道 ST 28） （all P〈0.05）; the intensity of fullness / distention, and numbness was stronger at Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） （P〈0.01）; the intensity of fullness/distention was stronger at Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） vs Zhōngwǎn （中脘 CV 12） （P〈0.05）. The current flow output of EA was similar among the acupoint pairs （all P〉0.05）. Conclusion In the situation that there is no obvious difference in the current flow output associated with EA sensations, the frequency of EA sensations does not relevant apparently with the different tissues. The difference in the intensity of the needling sensations among the different acupoints is probably relevant with the nerve segments at the acupoint locations. The frequency and the intensity of the different needling sensations at the same acupoint are relatively stable at the different times of EA.展开更多
Researches about correlation between acupoints and calcium in recent more than 30 years in CNKI were retrieved, and correlative connection of acupoints with calcium were analyzed from different levels, such as acupoin...Researches about correlation between acupoints and calcium in recent more than 30 years in CNKI were retrieved, and correlative connection of acupoints with calcium were analyzed from different levels, such as acupoint part, peripheral pathway, target organs, central system, etc. It was turned out that there was a calcium ion enrichment phenomenon in acupoint part; there was possibly a certain connection between acupoint part and protein-bound Ca2＋-ATPase; complex calcium ion in acupoint part influenced the effect of acupuncture; different methods of stimulating acupoint could significantly increase blood calcium content, decrease Ca/Cr ratio in urine; stimulation of acupoint could influence many target organs, improve their functions; stimulation of acupoints could influence distribution of calcium in the central nerve system. It is indicated that there is close relationship between the acupoint and calcium.展开更多
To point out that ＂analogical acupoint＂ is the acupoints with same indication effect by describing the concept of analogical acupoint, as well as its relationship with combination and prescription. ＂Analogical acup...To point out that ＂analogical acupoint＂ is the acupoints with same indication effect by describing the concept of analogical acupoint, as well as its relationship with combination and prescription. ＂Analogical acupoint＂ is the basic element for acupoint combination, while the acupoint combination is the foundation of acupuncture prescription. Finally, to make future prospect for the research thought of ＂analogical acupoint＂.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the effect of serum derived from rats treated with electroacupuncture at stomach meridian acupoints on the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in gastric mucosal cells. METHO...AIM: To investigate the effect of serum derived from rats treated with electroacupuncture at stomach meridian acupoints on the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in gastric mucosal cells. METHODS: The stress-induced gastric mucosal injury in rat model was established by water-immersion and restrained stress methods. 52 rats were randomly divided into: normal group (n = 8), model group (n = 8), model serum group (n = 12), stomach serum group (n = 12), and gallbladder serum group (n = 12). The gastric mucosal cells were separated by pronase-EDTA digestion method and incubated with serum. The EGFR gene expression in gastric mucosal cells was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. RESULTS: Compared with normal group (0.6860 ± 0.0594), the serum derived from rats of the stomach group (1.2272 ± 0.0813, P = 0.00 < 0.01) and gallbladder group (0.9640 ± 0.0387, P = 0.00 < 0.01) had a tendency to enhance the EGFR gene expression in gastric mucosal cells. Such tendency existed in the model group (0.7104 ± 0.0457) but with no signifi cant difference (P = 0.495 > 0.05) and in model serum group (0.8516 ± 0.0409) with an extremely obvious difference (P = 0.001 < 0.01). Furthermore, the EGFR gene expression in stomach serum group was significantly higher than that in gallbladder serum group (P = 0.00 < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The present study shows that serumderived from rats treated with electroacupuncture at stomach meridian acupoints can distinctly increase the EGFR gene expression of gastric mucosal cells. Therefore, there is certain meridian specificity in the serum, which could provide a proof for the TCM theory “particular relation between meridian and internal organ”.展开更多
文摘Background:Acupuncture is widely used in modulating brain excitability and motor function,as a form of complementary and alternative medicine.However,there is no existing meta-analysis evaluating the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture on corticospinal excitability(CSE),and the credibility of the evidence has yet to be quantified.Objective:This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture(EA)and manual acupuncture(MA)in enhancing brain excitability,specifically focusing on CSE as measured by transcranial magnetic stimulation(TMS).Search strategy:This study followed a systematic approach,searching 9 databases up to August 2024 and examining grey literature,in compliance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.Inclusion criteria:Studies were included if they compared the clinical efficacy of EA or MA with sham acupuncture,no treatment or usual training.Data extraction and analysis:Three investigators independently conducted literature screening,data extraction,and risk of bias assessment.The primary outcome focused on motor-evoked potentials as measured by TMS,with treatment effects quantified using mean differences or standardized mean differences between pre-and post-treatment.Subgroup analyses were conducted using mixed-effects models,while random-effects or fixed-effects models were used to estimate average treatment differences across studies.Results:Based on 34 studies involving 1031 adults,acupuncture techniques significantly enhanced CSE.EA had a greater impact than MA,with effect sizes of 0.53 mV vs 0.43 mV(95%confidence interval[CI]:[0.30,0.76],P<0.00001 vs 95%CI:[0.28,0.59],P<0.00001).The 5 most frequently used acupoints were LI4(Hegu,32 times),ST36(Zusanli,10 times),LI11(Quchi,7 times),TE5(Waiguan,6 times),and GB34(Yanglingquan,5 times).Conclusion:This systematic review indicates that both EA and MA could effectively and safely enhance CSE,bringing the corticospinal pathway closer to the threshold for firing,which may ultimately improve motor function.LI4,ST36,LI11,TE5 and GB34 are the most commonly used acupoints.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82274675&82074573)the Beijing Natural Science Foundation(7232278).
文摘Objective:To investigate the effects of“Three Methods and Three Acupoints”(TMTP)Tuina therapy on spinal microcirculation in sciatic nerve injury(SNI).Methods:Thirty-six SpragueeDawley rats were randomly assigned to four groups:normal,sham operation,model,and TMTP Tuina.Successful model induction was confirmed by observable hind limb lameness.After 20 sessions,hind limb grip strength and motor nerve conduction velocity(MNCV)were measured at baseline and following the 10th and 20th intervention.CD31 and a-SMA in the ventral horn of SNI model rats were detected using immunofluorescence.Motor neurons in the ventral horn were detected by Nissl staining.PTEN levels in the ventral horn were measured by ELISA,and PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF,and HIF-1a expression was determined by RT-PCR.Spinal cord microcirculation was evaluated by western blotting analysis of the levels of Akt,p-Akt,BDNF,and VEGF.Results:Hind limb grip strength and MNCV significantly improved in the TMTP Tuina group compared to the model group(both P<.001).Morphology of ventral horn motor neurons in the TMTP Tuina group improved compared to the model group,with increased expressions of a-SMA(P=.002)and CD31(P=.006).Western blot analysis indicated increased expression of VEGF(P=.005),p-Akt(P<.001),and BDNF(P=.008)in the ventral horn following Tuina treatment.RT-PCR analysis revealed increased expression of PI3K,Akt,BDNF,VEGF and HIF-1a(all P<.05).In contrast,expression of PTEN decreased compared to the model group(P<.001).Conclusion:TMTP Tuina therapy may restore motor function in rats,enhance ventral horn motor neuron morphology,and promote angiogenesis and vascular smooth muscle proliferation.The mechanism may involve the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
基金funded by National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFC3501705)National Natural Science Foundation of China general projects(No.82274066)Shanghai Science and Technology Innovation Project(No.22S21901200).
文摘Gastric ulcer(GU)is a common digestive system disease.Acupuncture,as one of the external treatments of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM),has the characteristics of multi-target,multi-pathway and multi-level action in the treatment of GU.The relationship between meridian points and Zang-fu is an important part of the theory of TCM,which is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.There is an external and internal link between acupoints and Zang-fu.The pathological reaction of Zang-fu can manifest as acupoint sensitization,while stimulation of acupoints can play a therapeutic role in the internal Zang-fu.Therefore,the acupoint has the functions of reflecting and treating diseases.This review explores the tender points on the body surface of patients with GU and the rules of acupoint selection.In addition,Zusanli(ST36),as one of the most used acupoints of the stomach meridian,was selected to show the mechanisms behind acupoint stimulation in the treatment of GU in greater detail,specifically in the well-studied model of the stress GU(SGU).Hence,the mechanisms of acupuncture at ST36 and points commonly used in combination with ST36 to treat SGU are discussed further.Treatment effects can be achieved through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities,gastric mucosal injury repair,and interaction with the brain-gut axis.In summary,this review provides evidence for a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena and mechanism of acupoint functions for GU.
基金National Basic Research Program of China:2012CB518503National twelfth five-year science and technology support program:2012BAF14B10Special fund of technology research and development for institute by Ministry of science and Technology of China:2011EG152313
文摘Objective To observe the effect of electroacupuncture at ear and body acupoints for the instant fasting blood glucose of model machins with type 2 diabetes mellitus（T2DM）.Methods For 10 machins with type2 diabetes,the electroacupuncture was applied at ＂Zusanli＂（足三里 ST 36）,＂Sanyinjiao＂（三阴交 SP 6） and three ＂Jiangtangdian＂（降糖点） in the ear continuously for 5 days,with the frequency of 2/15 Hz（The 2 Hz and the 15 Hz were transferred every second） and current of2 mA.The treatment was given once every day for 30 min.The fasting blood glucose was measured before acupuncture,after acupuncture for15 min and 30 min in the 5 days.Results On the first day,after 30-minute acupuncture the fasting blood glucose was reduced obviously compared with that before treatment（P〈0.01）.On the third and the fifth days,after acupuncture for 15 min and 30 min the fasting blood glucose was apparently lower than that before acupuncture（all P〈0.05）.On the fourth day,after acupuncture for 30 min the fasting blood glucose was decreased markedly than that before acupuncture（P〈0.05）.After 30-minute acupuncture on the fifth day,the fasting blood glucose was lower obviously than that before treatment on the first day（P〈0.05）.Conclusion ①The electroacupuncture at ear and body acupoints can reduce the instant fasting blood glucose of T2 DM machins apparently.② There is time effect on instant fasting blood glucose of T2 DM machins treated by electroacupuncture.The efficacy of 30-minute stimulation is superior to that of 15-minute acupuncture.After acupuncture continuously for 4 days,the effect is better than that with acupuncture for3 days successively.
文摘Objective To compare the effects between acupuncture combined with moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints and acupuncture on irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea （IBS-D）. Methods Sixty-four cases were randomly divided into an acupuncture and moxibustion group （n=32） and an acupuncture group （n=32）. Conventional acupuncture at Tiānshū （天枢 ST 14）, Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36）, Gōngsūn （公孙 SP 4） and other acupoints was used in the two groups, and moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints was added in the acupuncture and moxibustion group. The treatment frequency was 5 times a week, and 4 weeks were a course. After 2 courses, the therapeutic effect was evaluated. Results The clinical symptom scores after treatment in two groups decreased obviously than those before treatment （both P〈0.01）. The cured and markedly effective rate in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was 87.5% （28/32）, and that in the acupuncture group was 37.5% （12/32）, so the effect in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was better than that in the acupuncture group （P〈0.01）. The improvement of all kinds of symptom scores in the acupuncture and moxibustion group was all better than that in the acupuncture group （all P〈0.05）. Conclusion The clinical effect of acupuncture combined with moxibustion on heat-sensitive acupoints on IBS-D is better than that of acupuncture.
基金Supported by key laboratory project of Shenzhen technical research and development funding condition and platform construction plan:CXB201111250113A
文摘Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of warm needling on the four knee acupoints in the treatment of knee pain after stroke on the basis of Chinese herb. Methods Sixty patients with knee pain after stroke were divided into a group A and a group B by random allocation, with 30 patients in each group. Patients in the group B only received the treatment by Chinese herb, which called Dúhuó Jìshēng Tāng（独活寄生汤 Pubescent Angelica and Mistletoe Decoction, add or remove ingredients depending on conditions）; patients in the group A additionally received warm needling on the basis of Chinese herb. Four knee acupoints were selected as master acupoints and Hèd ng（鹤顶 EXLE 2）, Yánglíngquán（阳陵泉 GB 34） and Zúsānl（足三里 ST 36） as combining acupoints. Perpendicular insertion was conducted on Xuèh i（血海 SP 10） and Liángqiū（梁丘 ST 34） for approximately 1 cun, and oblique insertion on Nèixīy n（内膝眼 EX-LE 4） and Dúbí（犊鼻 ST 35） for approximately 1 cun at 45° in inner and upper direction to push needle tip into joint cavity. After deqi, moxibustion stick was cut to 1.5 cm long, ignited, and inserted into the needle handles in the four knee acupoints. 1–2 strips were applied. After the moxa cones were burned up, needles were retained for 10 min. 7 d was a course of treatment and observation lasted for consecutive four courses. Visual analogue scale（VAS） and Barthel Index（BI） were adopted as observational indices. Clinical efficacy was classified as clinical cured, markedly effective, effective and ineffective according to the standards described in Guidelines of Clinical Research on Chinese New Herbal Medicine. Results After treatment, total effective rate was 93.3% in the group A, including full recovery in 8 cases, markedly effective in 15 cases, effective in 5 cases, and ineffective in 2 cases; while the total effective rate was 73.3% in the group B. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant（P0.05）. In the group A, VAS scores were 6.53 ± 1.39 before treatment and 1.53 ± 0.80 after treatment and BI scores were 58.38±8.67 before treatment and 67.55 ± 12.99 after treatment; in the group B, VAS scores were 6.63 ± 1.81 before treatment and 3.33 ± 0.96 after treatment and BI scores were 57.89 ± 9.65 before treatment and 64.87 ± 12.18 after treatment. Both VAS and BI scores were improved significantly in the two groups after treatment and the improvements were statistically significant（all P0.05）. Furthermore, both VAS and BI scores of group A were superior to that of group B（P0.05）. Conclusion Additional treatment of warm needling on the four knee acupoints on the basis of Chinese herb can enhance the clinical efficacy in treatment of knee pain after stroke, contribute to the rapid recovery of knee function and improve the life quality of stroke patients.
文摘Objective To probe into the impacts on the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF） in ischemic brain tissue treated with cluster puncture on scalp acupoints in rats, Methods 128 rats were randomized into pseudo-operation group, model group, scalp-needling group and cluster-needling group, In scalp-needling group, penetration method was used on the focal side from Bǎihuì （百会 GV20） to Qǔbīn （曲鬓 GB7）, and in cluster-needling group, penetration method was used on both sides from GV20 to GB7, and a common needling on GV 20. Needles were punctured 2 mm in depth, constantly rotated for 10min, retained for 2 h. Immunohistrochemical method was applied to determine VEGF expression and microvessel density （MVD）. Results With the intervention of cluster puncture on scalp acupoints, VEGF： expressions on every time-spot after ischemia were enhanced apparently, superior to those in scalp-needling group. On the three time-spots of the 7^th, 14^th and 21^st days, MVD was increased after cluster puncture on scale acupoints, superior to those in scalp-needling group. Conclusion Cluster puncture on scalp acupoints up-regulated VEGF expression and promoted regeneration of microvessel.
基金supported by the Guangdong Province Science and Technology Plan,No.2010B030700008the Guangzhou Science and Technology Plan Application Foundation,No.2012J4300062the Major Project of Science and Technology Plan of Dongguan City in 2012,No.2012105102022
文摘Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoints entirely along the injured nerve trunk and neglecting other regions; this may delay onset of treatment efficacy and rehabilitation. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints combined （GV/LM group） with acupuncture at local meridian acupoints alone （LM group） in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. In the GV/LM group （n = 15）, in addition to meridian acupoints at the injury site, the following acupoints on the Governor vessel were stimulated： Baihui （GV20）, Fengfu （GV16）, Dazhui （GV14）, and Shenzhu （GV12）, selected to treat nerve injury of the upper limb, and Jizhong （GV6）, Mingmen （GV4）, Yaoyangguan （GV3）, and Yaoshu （GV2） to treat nerve injury of the lower limb. In the LM group （n = 15）, only me- ridian acupoints along the injured nerve were selected. Both groups had electroacupuncture treatment for 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times per week, for 6 weeks. Two cases dropped out of the LM group. A good or excellent clinical response was obtained in 80% of the patients in the GV/ LM group and 38.5% of the LM group. In a second study, an additional 20 patients underwent acupuncture with the same prescription as the GV/LM group. Electomyographic nerve conduc- tion tests were performed before and after acupuncture to explore the mechanism of action of the treatment. An effective response was observed in 80.0% of the patients, with greater motor nerve conduction velocity and amplitude after treatment, indicating that electroacupuncture on specific Governor vessel acupoints promotes functional motor nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. In addition, electromyography was performed before, during and after electroacu- puncture in one patient with radial nerve injury. After a single session, the patient＇s motor nerve conduction velocity increased by 23.2%, indicating that electroacupuncture at Governor vessel acupoints has an immediate therapeutic effect on peripheral nerve injury. Our results indicate that Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints used simultaneously promote functional repair after peripheral nerve injury. The mechanism of action may arise from an improvement of the local microenvironment in injured nervous tissue, as well as immediate effects of Governor vessel and local meridian acupoint stimulation to ensure the continuity between the peripheral and central nervous systems.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.82104693 and 81825024)。
文摘Objective:Varied acupoint selections represent a potential cause of the uncertainty surrounding the efficacy of acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis(OA).Skin temperature,a guiding factor for acupoint selection,may help to address this issue.This study explored thermal sensitization of acupoints used for the treatment of knee OA.Methods:This cross-sectional case-control study enrolled cases aged 45–75 years with symptomatic knee OA and age-and gender-matched non-knee OA controls in a 1:1 ratio.All participants underwent infrared thermographic imaging.The primary outcome was the relative skin temperature of acupoint(STA),and the secondary outcome was the absolute STA of 11 acupoints.The Z test was used to compare the relative and absolute STAs between the groups.Principal component analysis was used to extract the common factors(CFs,acupoint cluster)in the STAs.A general linear model was used to identify factors affecting the STA in the knee OA cases.For the group comparisons of relative STA,P<0.0045(adjusted for 11 acupoints through Bonferroni correction)was considered to indicate statistical significance.For other analyses,P<0.05 was used as the threshold for statistical significance.Results:The analysis included 308 participants,consisting of 151 cases(mean age:[64.58±6.67]years;male:25.83%;mean body mass index:[25.70±3.16]kg/m~2)and 157 controls(mean age:[63.37±5.96]years;male:26.11%;mean body mass index:[24.47±2.84]kg/m~2).The relative STAs of ST34(P=0.0001),EX-LE2(P<0.0001),EX-LE5(P=0.0006),SP10(P<0.0001),BL40(P=0.0012)and GB39(P=0.0037)were higher in the knee OA group.No difference was found in the STAs of ST35,ST36,SP9,GB33 and GB34.Four CFs were identified for relative STA in both groups.The acupoints within each CF were consistent between the groups.The mean values of the relative STAs across each CF were higher in the knee OA group.In the knee OA cases,no factors were observed to affect the relative STA,while age and gender were found to affect the absolute STA.Conclusion:Among patients with knee OA,thermal sensitization occurs in the acupoints of the lower extremity,exhibiting localized and regional thermal consistencies.The thermally sensitized acupoints that we identified in this study,ST34,SP10,EX-LE2,EX-LE5,GB39 and BL40,may be good choices for the acupuncture treatment of knee OA.
基金Song Hujie’s Inheritance Studio of National Renowned Traditional Chinese Medicine Experts.
文摘Objective:To explore the core acupuncture acupoints and pattern-adapted acupoint combination rules for autism spectrum disorder(ASD)complicated with sleep disorder using clinical data mining technology.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted on the diagnosis and treatment data of 104 children with ASD complicated with sleep disorder admitted to Xi’an Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)Encephalopathy Hospital from January 2022 to December 2024.Cross-pattern main acupoints were screened via frequency statistics,chi-square test,and factor analysis;pattern-specific auxiliary acupoints were extracted by combining multiple correspondence analysis,cluster analysis,and association rule mining.Results:Ten cross-pattern main acupoints(Baihui,Sishenzhen,Language Area 1,Language Area 2,Neiguan,Shenmen,Yongquan,Xuanzhong)were identified,and acupoint combination schemes for four major TCM patterns(Hyperactivity of Liver and Heart Fire,Deficiency of Kidney Essence,Deficiency of Both Heart and Spleen,Hyperactivity of Liver with Spleen Deficiency)were established.Conclusion:Acupuncture treatment should follow the principle of“regulating spirit and calming the brain as the root,and dredging collaterals based on pattern differentiation as the branch”.The synergy between main and auxiliary acupoints can accurately regulate the disease,providing a basis for precise clinical treatment.
文摘Objective To observe therapeutic effects of scalp acupuncture at close acupoints combined with rehabilitation training on balance functions of children with cerebral palsy （CP）. Methods Sixty children with CP were randomly divided into a scalp acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training group （group SA＋RT） and a rehabilitation training group （group RT） with 30 cases in each group. Conventional rehabilitation therapy and balance training were applied in group RT, and scalp acupuncture at close acupoints in the parietal region and sub-occipital region was added besides rehabilitation training in group SA＋RT. Balance functions were evaluated by using Berg rating scale, and abilities of daily living were estimated by using rating scale for activities of daily living （ADL）. Results After treatment, both Berg scores for balance and ADL scores were significantly improved in both groups （all P0.05）, and the improvement in group SA＋RT was more obvious than that in group RT （ both P0.05）. Conclusion Combination of scalp acupuncture at close acupoints with rehabilitation training is superior to simple rehabilitation training in improving balance functions and activities of daily living in children with cerebral palsy.
文摘The common acupoints and meridians for gynecology as well as their biophysical characteristics were summarized,the importance of biophysical characteristics for common meridians and acupoints were pointed out,some new research fields for fundamental study on common acupoints in gynecology were put forward,such as proteomics,genomics,transcriptomics,and other fields,and further evidence support for large-sample randomized controlled trials were appealed.
基金Supported by the National Scientific Foundation:30772878
文摘Objective To investigate the mechanisms of catgut implantation at acupoints on ulcerative colitis. Methods Eighteen SD rats were randomly divided into a normal control group （NC）, a model group （MO） and a catgut implantation group （CI） with 6 rats in each group. Animals in group MO and group CI were treated by trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid （TNBS） to establish model with colitis. No other treatment was given to the rats in group MO, but catgut was implanted at ＂Shàngjùxū＂ （上 巨虚 ST 37）, ＂Tiānshū＂ （天枢 ST 25） and ＂Dàchángshū＂ （大肠俞 BL 25） in the rats in group CI. The symptoms of diarrhea and bloody stool, and changes in histopathology were detected 15 days after the treatment. Expressions of splenic lymphocyte nuclear factor κB p65（NF-κB p65）and correlated signaling molecules（β2AR）were detected by the western blot method. Results Diarrhea and mucus bloody purulent stool were soon controlled, and mucous injures were obviously improved in group CI. The NF-κB p65 value of splenic lymphocytes was signifi cantly increased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably reduced in group MO （P0.01）, compared with group NC. But, the NF-κB p65 value was significantly decreased （P0.01） and expression of β2AR remarkably increased in group CI （P 0.01） , compared with group MO. Conclusion Catgut implantation at acupoints is obviously effective in treating experimental colitis. Modulation of NF-κB p65 and the correlated signaling molecules β2AR may be involved in the mechanisms.
基金funded by Chinese Medicine Research Practical Training Program of Hong Kong Hospital Authority Chinese Medicine Department(Hong Kong,China),fourth batch.
文摘Objective:To compare the efficacy of using“distal acupoints only”vs.“local acupoints mainly combined with distal acupoints”in cases of acute low back pain(ALBP).Methods: A total of 102 eligible patients aged 18–65 years with ALBP lasting less than 6 weeks will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the distal acupoints only group(DPOG)and the local acupoints mainly combined with the distal acupoints group(LPMG).During a 4-week treatment period,patients in the DPOG will receive acupuncture at distal acupoints only(Houxi[SI 3]and Yaotongxue[EX-UE 7])twice a week,while those in the LPMG group will receive acupuncture at local acupoints(mainly Shenshu[BL 23]and Dachangshu[BL 25])combined with distal points(Weizhong[BL 40]).The patients in both groups will be evaluated at every session of treatment,and the follow-up will be performed for 3 months.The primary outcome measure will be the change in ALBP intensity,assessed using visual analogue scale scores before and after treatment.The secondary outcome measure will be the evaluation of functional disability using the Oswestry Disability Index.Discussion: This study compares the DPOG and LPMG to explore the feasibility of the DPOG in the treatment of ALBP.
基金Supported by Hebei One Hundred Excellent Innovative Talents Supporting Plan:BR2-104
文摘Objective To observe the comparison of the clinical efficacy between penetration needling from Neiguan （内关 PC 6） to Waiguan （外关 TE 5） and western medicine estazolam for insomnia. Methods Sixty insomnia patients were divided into 2 groups according to the random number table, 30 cases in each group. Penetration needling from PC 6 to TE 5 was mainly adopted in acupuncture group for once a day, 5timesa week, and treatment for 4 weeks was 1 course of treatment. Estazolam was orally given in medicine group before sleep every night in a dosage of 1 mg per time, and treatment for 4 weeks was 2 course of treatment. After 4 weeks, the clinical efficacy and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index （PSQI） score were compared respectively between the two groups. Results The total effective rate was 90.00% in acupuncture group and 63.33% in medicine group, and the difference was statistically significant （P〈0.05）. PSQI score in acupuncture group was （7.93＋3.77）, which was superior to that in medicine group （10.60＋4.20）, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant （P〈0.05）. Conclusion The penetration needling of complementary acupoints from PC 6 to TE 5 was simple and convenient which can significantly improve the patients＇ sleep quality.
文摘To explore and study the significant value of ＂Tianyou（天牖 TE 16） five acupoints＂ in treatment of clinical diseases based on analysis of three cases.Case 1：thyroid enlargement.Acupuncture was conducted at Renying（人迎 ST 9）,Futu（扶突 LI 18）,Shuitu（水突 ST 10） and Qishe（气舍 ST 11）,and combined with Neiguan（内关 PC 6）.After ten courses of treatment,nodules and calcified lesions shrank.Case 2：hyperplasia of mammary glands.Acupuncture was conducted at bilateral ST 9 and TE 16,and combined with Taichong（太冲 LR 3） and Danzhong（膻中 CV 17）.After eight courses of treatment,the breast lumps disappeared.Case 3：hyperprolactinemia,and amenorrhea for two years.Acupuncture was conducted at bilateral ST 9,TE 16 and Tianfu（天府 LU 3）,and combined with LR 3 and Xiaxi（侠溪 GB 43）.After eleven courses of treatment,the content of prolactin was normal.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Fund Project: 30870668NIH/NCCAM subsidized project: F 05 AT 03022-01-04
文摘Objective To evaluate the influence of the tissue specificity of the acupoints （different meridians, tissues and nerve segments） on the frequency, intensity and current flow output in association with electroacupuncture （EA） sensations. Methods Twenty one volunteers received EA. According to the tissue specificities of acupoints, 5 acupoint pairs were selected, named Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Yánglíngquán （阳陵泉 GB 34, different meridians）, Nèiguān （内关 PC 6） vs Dàlíng （大陵 PC 7, different tissues）, Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Shuǐdào （水道 ST 28, different nerve segments）, Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） vs Zhōngwǎn （中脘 CV 12, different nerve segments）, and Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Guānyuán （关元 CV 4, different meridians, tissues and nerve segments）. The electric frequency was 15 Hz. The electric current was under the subject’s tolerance without sharp pain induced. EA lasted 90 s with 3 discontinuities. The sensations, such as soreness, numbness, fullness/distention, heaviness, tingling, pressure, dull pain, hotness and coldness were recorded as well as the current flow output in association with the needling sensations. The differences in the frequency, intensity and current flow output relevant with the needling sensations were compared among the different acupoint pairs. Results There were no significant differences in the frequency of the needling sensations among the different acupoint pairs （all P〉0.05）. Of 9 different sensations of EA, fullness/distention, numbness and soreness presented the most commonly and remarkably; heaviness, pressure and tingling were on the second top; dull pain, hotness and coldness occurred at the lower frequency. There were the differences in the intensity of some needling sensations among the acupoint pairs, in which, the intensity of soreness, fullness/distention and heaviness was stronger at Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Shuǐdào （水道 ST 28） （all P〈0.05）; the intensity of fullness / distention, and numbness was stronger at Zúsānlǐ （足三里 ST 36） vs Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） （P〈0.01）; the intensity of fullness/distention was stronger at Guānyuán （关元 CV 4） vs Zhōngwǎn （中脘 CV 12） （P〈0.05）. The current flow output of EA was similar among the acupoint pairs （all P〉0.05）. Conclusion In the situation that there is no obvious difference in the current flow output associated with EA sensations, the frequency of EA sensations does not relevant apparently with the different tissues. The difference in the intensity of the needling sensations among the different acupoints is probably relevant with the nerve segments at the acupoint locations. The frequency and the intensity of the different needling sensations at the same acupoint are relatively stable at the different times of EA.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Fund of China: No. 81072881, 81173204Special Scientific Research Fund of Doctor’s Discipline Station of Colleges and Universities,the Ministry of Education:2010121010007"Key Discipline"(Acupuncture and Massage Science)Open Fund of Zhejiang Province: No.ZTK 201010808
文摘Researches about correlation between acupoints and calcium in recent more than 30 years in CNKI were retrieved, and correlative connection of acupoints with calcium were analyzed from different levels, such as acupoint part, peripheral pathway, target organs, central system, etc. It was turned out that there was a calcium ion enrichment phenomenon in acupoint part; there was possibly a certain connection between acupoint part and protein-bound Ca2＋-ATPase; complex calcium ion in acupoint part influenced the effect of acupuncture; different methods of stimulating acupoint could significantly increase blood calcium content, decrease Ca/Cr ratio in urine; stimulation of acupoint could influence many target organs, improve their functions; stimulation of acupoints could influence distribution of calcium in the central nerve system. It is indicated that there is close relationship between the acupoint and calcium.
基金Supported by Funding project of National Key Fundamental Research Development Planning("973"Plan):2014 CB 543100
文摘To point out that ＂analogical acupoint＂ is the acupoints with same indication effect by describing the concept of analogical acupoint, as well as its relationship with combination and prescription. ＂Analogical acupoint＂ is the basic element for acupoint combination, while the acupoint combination is the foundation of acupuncture prescription. Finally, to make future prospect for the research thought of ＂analogical acupoint＂.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 90209023 the State 973 Project, No. 2005CB523308
文摘AIM: To investigate the effect of serum derived from rats treated with electroacupuncture at stomach meridian acupoints on the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in gastric mucosal cells. METHODS: The stress-induced gastric mucosal injury in rat model was established by water-immersion and restrained stress methods. 52 rats were randomly divided into: normal group (n = 8), model group (n = 8), model serum group (n = 12), stomach serum group (n = 12), and gallbladder serum group (n = 12). The gastric mucosal cells were separated by pronase-EDTA digestion method and incubated with serum. The EGFR gene expression in gastric mucosal cells was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method. RESULTS: Compared with normal group (0.6860 ± 0.0594), the serum derived from rats of the stomach group (1.2272 ± 0.0813, P = 0.00 < 0.01) and gallbladder group (0.9640 ± 0.0387, P = 0.00 < 0.01) had a tendency to enhance the EGFR gene expression in gastric mucosal cells. Such tendency existed in the model group (0.7104 ± 0.0457) but with no signifi cant difference (P = 0.495 > 0.05) and in model serum group (0.8516 ± 0.0409) with an extremely obvious difference (P = 0.001 < 0.01). Furthermore, the EGFR gene expression in stomach serum group was significantly higher than that in gallbladder serum group (P = 0.00 < 0.01). CONCLUSION: The present study shows that serumderived from rats treated with electroacupuncture at stomach meridian acupoints can distinctly increase the EGFR gene expression of gastric mucosal cells. Therefore, there is certain meridian specificity in the serum, which could provide a proof for the TCM theory “particular relation between meridian and internal organ”.
