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Silva Vilela Terra AM, Santos PDG, Gomes M, Santos ATS, Pezarat-Correia P. Effects of auriculotherapy on muscle fatigue: A randomized crossover trial. J Bodyw Mov Ther 2024; 37:209-219. [PMID: 38432808 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2023.11.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed investigate the effect of auriculotherapy on exercise-induced muscle fatigue, isometric torque production, and surface electromyographic activity (EMG). METHODS Design: Randomized Crossover Trial. The sample consisted of 18 males' volunteers who exercised at least twice a week. THE SAMPLE WAS RANDOMLY ASSIGNED TO TWO GROUPS Placebo Group (n = 9) and Treated Group (n = 9), and after seven days, the groups were crossed. The data analysis included 18 participants in each group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The muscle fatigue index, force production rate, and EMG of the quadriceps were used for evaluation. The evaluation moments included baseline pre-fatigue, baseline post-fatigue, 48 h post-intervention pre-fatigue, and 48 h post-intervention post-fatigue. Mixed two-way test ANOVA was used to compare times and groups. RESULTS The fatigue index for peak torque and work showed no significant effect on time, groups, or interaction (p > 0.05). However, for isometric torque, force production rate, and EMG median frequency and average, the results indicate a positive change in values over time (p < 0.05) (with little practical relevance), with no differences observed between the groups or interaction (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, auriculotherapy had no effect on exercise-induced muscle fatigue, isometric torque production, and surface electromyographic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréia Maria Silva Vilela Terra
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculty of Human Kinetics, Lisbon University, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; Human Performance Research Laboratory, Alfenas Federal University, 37133-840, Santa Clara, Alfenas, MG, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Duarte Guia Santos
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculty of Human Kinetics, Lisbon University, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Miguel Gomes
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculty of Human Kinetics, Lisbon University, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal
| | - Adriana Teresa Silva Santos
- Human Performance Research Laboratory, Alfenas Federal University, 37133-840, Santa Clara, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Pedro Pezarat-Correia
- Neuromuscular Research Lab, Faculty of Human Kinetics, Lisbon University, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada-Dafundo, Portugal; CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada, Dafundo, Portugal
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Cullen MFL, Casazza GA, Davis BA. Passive Recovery Strategies after Exercise: A Narrative Literature Review of the Current Evidence. Curr Sports Med Rep 2021; 20:351-358. [PMID: 34234090 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000000859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Passive recovery techniques are popular and offer a diverse spectrum of options for athletes and the clinicians providing care for them. These techniques are intended to minimize the negative effects of training or competition, thus enabling the athlete a quicker return to peak performance. Current evidence demonstrates improved athlete recovery with compression garments, cold water immersion, partial body cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and vibratory therapies. Other popular modalities, such as compression devices, whole body cryotherapy, percussive gun-assisted therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and pulsed electromagnetic therapy lack convincing evidence concerning athlete recovery. This article seeks to review the current literature and offer the reader an updated understanding of the mechanisms for each modality and the evidence regarding each modality's potential benefit in an athlete's recovery strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brian A Davis
- Department of PhysicalMedicine and Rehabilitation, University of California Davis Health System, Sacramento, CA
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Antonassi DP, Rodacki CL, Lodovico A, Ugrinowitsch C, Rodacki ALF. Immediate Effects of Acupuncture on Force and Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness. Med Acupunct 2021; 33:203-211. [PMID: 34239662 PMCID: PMC8236298 DOI: 10.1089/acu.2020.1491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The ability to produce force is critical to several daily activities. Strategies to reduce delayed onsent muscle soreness (DOMS) and restore force-generating properties that occur in response to training and impair physical performance have been proposed. Acupuncture has been proposed to accelerate recovery and optimize muscle functioning. It was to determine the effects of acupuncture on DOMS and on the muscle force production capacity. Methods: Thirty physically active volunteers (26.3 ± 3.1 years old, 1.70 ± 0.08 m, 66.5 ± 12.6 kg) were allocated in a control (CG; n = 10), placebo (PG; n = 10), and acupuncture (AG; n = 10) groups. The groups were subjected to an exercise protocol to induce DOMS and were assessed for muscle force, threshold, and rate of perceived pain and activation of the biceps brachialis muscle before (PRE) and 20 minutes after (POST) a single acupuncture session using a mixed model analysis. Results: The threshold and rate of perceived pain were reduced in the AG (P < 0.05) but remained unchanged in the other groups (P > 0.05). Muscle activation also showed larger changes in the AG in comparison with the other groups (P < 0.05). No changes in the ability to produce force were found after acupuncture in any groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Acupuncture may reduce discomfort and improve muscle activation but was not effective to promote force improvement and/or restore the force-generating properties. It may be speculated that muscle disruption may have played a role and did not allow participants to restore their muscular performance. Rebec Number; RBR-8bh5k7 (www.ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-8bh5k7); Clinical Trial Registry (UTN No.: U1111-1234-9553).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cintia L.N. Rodacki
- Department of Physical Education, Paraná Technological Federal University, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos Ugrinowitsch
- Department of Sports, School of Physical Education and Sport, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Luiz Felix Rodacki
- Department of Physical Education, Paraná Federal University, Biological Sciences Sector, Curitiba, Brazil
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Micalos PS, Pak SC, Jesulola E, Cannon J, Hale M, Koo BS. Does Acupuncture Enhance Muscle Strength and Performance? Strength Cond J 2021. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Kang L, Liu P, Peng A, Sun B, He Y, Huang Z, Wang M, Hu Y, He B. Application of traditional Chinese therapy in sports medicine. SPORTS MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2021; 3:11-20. [PMID: 35782678 PMCID: PMC9219272 DOI: 10.1016/j.smhs.2021.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Chinese herbs have been used as dietary supplements to improve exercise performance. However, evidence-based studies for the use of Chinese herbs in sports remain scarce. Traditional Chinese therapy (TCT), a form of traditional Chinese non-pharmacological intervention, has remained in use for thousands of years in sports medicine. TCT is beneficial for sports injuries and in enhancing skill development, and is becoming increasingly popular among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals who regularly exercise. The therapeutic effects of TCT have been demonstrated by clinical and experimental studies, but using these modalities still is associate with potentially adverse effects. Further well-designed studies are necessary to confirm the efficacy of TCT in sports medicine. This review aims to summarize the application of TCT, discuss the issues surrounding TCT clinical research, and provide suggestions for applying traditional Chinese methods in the field of sports medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Kang
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Peijie Liu
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Aishi Peng
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Bingxin Sun
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yumei He
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zenghao Huang
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Minjia Wang
- School of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yushi Hu
- Sport Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Benxiang He
- Sport Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Corresponding author. Sport Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Sports University, 610041, No. 251, Wuhou Temple Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu, China.
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Effects of Acupuncture on Explosive Force Production by the Healthy Female Shoulder Joint. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:8835672. [PMID: 33343681 PMCID: PMC7725556 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8835672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Acupuncture is often used to treat chronic conditions, such as pain. In recent years, given the importance of the explosive forces generated by shoulder muscles for the completion of motor tasks, studies in which nerves were stimulated through acupuncture to increase the explosive forces were conducted. This study explored the effect of acupuncture on explosive force production by the muscles of the female shoulder joint. Methods Eighteen healthy women underwent shoulder adduction (Add), abduction (Abd), flexion (Flex), and extension (Ext) tests with an isokinetic measurement system. Acupuncture was used to stimulate the Zhongfu (LU1), Tianfu (LI3), Xiabai (LU4), Binao (LI14), Naohui (SJ13), Jianliao (SJ14), and Xiaoluo (SJ12) points, and electromyography (EMG) signals were recorded before and after acupuncture. Results After acupuncture, there was a significant difference in the average maximum work, the average maximum power, the average maximum speed, the total work in Add/Abd and Flex/Ext, the EMG signals, and the stiffness of the muscles in Abd and Ext (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the average maximum torque in Abd or Flex. Conclusion Based on the results, there may be a significant correlation between the manipulation of different acupoints by acupuncture and the average maximum torque and stiffness. Acupuncture may stimulate nerves to activate muscles and induce a postactivation potentiation effect that improves explosive force production. Therefore, acupuncture as an auxiliary tool may increase the explosive forces generated by acupoint-related muscles by stimulating nerves.
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Effect of Acupuncture on Muscle Endurance in the Female Shoulder Joint: A Pilot Study. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2020; 2020:9786367. [PMID: 32952592 PMCID: PMC7487087 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9786367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Shoulder joint dysfunction is the leading cause of decreased athletic ability in athletes. Shoulder joint sports injuries affect the athletic performance of athletes. Improvements in the muscle endurance of the shoulder joint can reduce the incidence of shoulder joint dysfunction. Acupuncture has been an important part of Asian culture for a long time. In acupuncture, nerves are stimulated, inducing postactivation potentiation (PAP) in the body's motor units and enhancing muscle strength. In this research, 20 female participants with full flexion/extension and adduction/abduction ranges of motion in the shoulder joint during isokinetic exercises underwent stimulation of the following acupuncture points in the shoulder joint: Binao (LI14), Jianyu (LI15), Jianliao (SJ14), Naohui (SJ13), Yuzhong (KI26), Zhongfu (LU1), Yunmen (LU2), Xiabai (LU4), Chize (LU5), Tianfu (LU3), and Xiaoluo (SJ12). In the study, there were significant increases after acupuncture in the average maximum torque in flexion, extension, and adduction; the average work in flexion/extension and adduction/abduction; the average power in flexion/extension and adduction/abduction; the total work in flexion/extension and adduction/abduction; the total net sagittal-plane work (flexion + extension); and the total net frontal-plane work (adduction + abduction) (P < 0.05). The average maximum abduction torque did not increase significantly, potentially due to antagonistic forces of muscles. Therefore, acupuncture at acupoints around the shoulder joint can increase muscle excitability, thereby delaying muscle fatigue and increasing muscle endurance.
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de Carvalho Fonseca RG, Silva AM, Teixeira LF, Silva VR, Dos Reis LM, Silva Santos AT. Effect of the Auricular Acupoint Associated with Physical Exercise in Elderly People: A Randomized Clinical Test. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2018; 11:137-144. [PMID: 29753704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the effect of auricular acupoint associated with physical exercise on balance, mobility, and fear of falling in the elderly. METHOD The study is characterized as a clinical, controlled, and randomized trial with 22 elderly people divided into two groups: kinesiotherapy group (n = 11) and kinesiotherapy/auriculotherapy group (n = 11). The instruments used for evaluation were Falls Efficacy Scale International; Berg Balance Scale, and Timed up and Go Test. The intervention was performed with frequency 2×/week for 8 weeks. In the kinesiotherapy/auriculotherapy group, in addition to kinesiotherapy, auriculotherapy was applied in specific acupoints. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine the normality of the data, and for comparison, analysis of variance was used for repeated measures of two factors. RESULTS There was a significant intragroup reduction for the Timed up and Go Test (p = 0.00) and Falls Efficacy Scale International (p = 0.00), and significant intragroup Berg Balance Scale (p = 0.00) for both groups. CONCLUSION The auricular acupoint did not influence the balance, mobility, and fear of falling in the elderly studied.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andréia Maria Silva
- Physiotherapy, Department of Physical Therapy of the Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas MG, Brazil
| | - Luiza Faria Teixeira
- Physiotherapy, Department of Physical Therapy of the Vale Do Sapucaí University (UNIVÁS), Pouso Alegre MG, Brazil
| | - Valéria Regina Silva
- Physical Education Course Teacher - José do Rosário Vellano University (UNIFENAS), Alfenas MG, Brazil
| | - Luciana Maria Dos Reis
- Physiotherapy, Department of Physical Therapy of the Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas MG, Brazil
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Ahmedov S, Filiz B. Effect of Meridian Acupressure on Aerobic Performance of Healthy Young Population: A Randomized Controlled Study. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:589-595. [PMID: 29461858 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2017.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES An enhancement of aerobic capacity has always been in the scope of various exercise programs. Apart from traditional, like endurance training, methods to improve aerobic performance, there is growing interest to alternative bodywork techniques, like massage, yoga, and acupuncture. This study aimed to investigate the acupressure effect on maximal aerobic capacity (VO2max) in healthy young adult males. DESIGN Forty young healthy participants were randomly divided into intervention (n = 20) and control (n = 20) groups. The inferred VO2max level in groups was assessed by the 6-min Harvard step test twice: at baseline and after acupressure session. INTERVENTION Three-minute finger-tip point massage of Neiguan, Juque, and Xinshu acupoints covered by 1 cm2 sticky capsaicin-dressed heat plasters was applied in the intervention group, whereas in the control group, placebo acupressure was utilized. RESULTS The inferred VO2max in the intervention group increased from baseline 2.38 ± 0.48 L/min to 2.57 ± 0.6 L/min (p < 0.003), whereas inferred VO2max of the control group remained unchanged (2.46 ± 0.5 L/min at baseline and 2.47 ± 0.4 L/min after placebo acupressure, p > 0.9). CONCLUSIONS The results of the study demonstrated that finger-tip acupressure increases aerobic performance of young healthy males on more than 10%. Acupressure probably decreased anxiety level, which allowed better utilization of available energy sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahin Ahmedov
- School of Physical Education and Sports, Near East University , Nicosia, Lefkosha, Turkey
| | - Baris Filiz
- School of Physical Education and Sports, Near East University , Nicosia, Lefkosha, Turkey
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The Feasibility and Effects of Acupuncture in an Adolescent Nordic Ski Population. PM R 2016; 9:795-803. [PMID: 27915067 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2016.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies investigating the use and effectiveness of acupuncture in adults after exercise have been well documented. Fewer studies involving acupuncture have been completed in the adolescent athlete population. To our knowledge, there are no published studies that investigate the use of acupuncture in adolescent athletes within their field of play. OBJECTIVE To primarily assess the feasibility of performing acupuncture in adolescent Nordic skiers within their athletic environment, and secondarily to measure the effect of acupuncture on muscle soreness and sense of well-being. DESIGN Prospective feasibility study. SETTING Local outdoor cross country ski trails and indoor lodge. PARTICIPANTS Fifteen healthy participants (80% female, 20% male; age 14-17 years) were involved on at least 1 of 5 treatment days. INTERVENTION Fifteen-minute treatments were administered using traditional needle acupuncture following the first 5 consecutive Nordic Ski Team practices of the season in an attempt to capture the effect of acupuncture on delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Acupuncture points specific to muscle groups in the lower limbs that are commonly reported as painful during Nordic skiing were chosen. Pre- and posttreatment surveys included visual analogue scales (VAS) to track participant responses. OUTCOME MEASURES Time, cost, side effects, and participant to provider ratio was observed to determine feasibility. Effect on muscle soreness and sense of well-being was measured via pre- and posttreatment VAS (0-10) rating analyses. RESULTS Total time required by research staff on treatment days was 90 minutes; total cost, $1500; temperature range, -13.9°C to -2.8°C, and largest participant to acupuncturist ratio, 7:1. No major side effects occurred. The majority (73%) of participants reported minimal side effects; most common was treatment site pain. The overall pre- to posttreatment effect on muscle soreness (average over 5 days) demonstrated significantly improved posttreatment scores (P = .04). The effect of the day (average over pre- and posttreatment values) demonstrated significantly higher muscle soreness scores on day 3 versus day 1 (P = .03). At study completion, all participants indicated that they would consider acupuncture in the future and would recommend treatments to friends or teammates. CONCLUSION Providing acupuncture to adolescent Nordic ski athletes in the practice field under extreme temperatures is feasible with the appropriate resources. Despite mild side effects, acupuncture was well received by the athletes. Lessons learned from this trial can provide a framework for delivering acupuncture to other athletes in their training environment. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.
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Yang C, Lee E, Hwang EH, Kwon O, Lee JH. Management of Sport Injuries with Korean Medicine: A Survey of Korean National Volleyball Team. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2016; 2016:8639492. [PMID: 27651819 PMCID: PMC5019945 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8639492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to report the current state of Korean medicine (KM) treatment on sports injury by implementing survey with volleyball team medical doctors participating in 2013-2014 season. Six KM doctors completed a questionnaire that includes injury parameters: type, location, situation, and pain scores. We collected 166 injury cases from 94 Korean male and female national volleyball players. Knee (25.9%), low back (13.3%), elbow, and ankle (8.4%) injuries were most common. Joint (41.6%) and muscle (30.7%) were major injured tissues. KM team medical doctors utilized acupuncture (40.4%), chuna manual therapy (16.0%), physical therapy (15.2%), taping (9.0%), and cupping (7.8%) to treat volleyball injuries. Any types of medications were used infrequently. Additional physical and exercise therapy were preferred after receiving acupuncture (both 46.9%). This study presented the preliminary injury profile of Korean elite volleyball players. Injury and treatment parameters could be useful to build advanced KM model in sport medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changsop Yang
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunyoung Lee
- Mibyeong Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui-Hyoung Hwang
- Third Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Pusan 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Ojin Kwon
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Hwan Lee
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
- Korean Medicine Life Science, University of Science & Technology (UST), Campus of Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon 34054, Republic of Korea
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Urroz P, Colagiuri B, Smith CA, Yeung A, Cheema BS. Effect of acupuncture and instruction on physiological recovery from maximal exercise: a balanced-placebo controlled trial. Altern Ther Health Med 2016; 16:227. [PMID: 27430558 PMCID: PMC4949751 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1213-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the effect of acupuncture administered immediately following a graded exercise test (GXT) on physiological measures of recovery and determine if instruction (expectancy) affected the responses. Methods A balanced-placebo 2 × 2 factorial design was used with treatment (real vs placebo acupuncture) and instruction (told real vs told placebo acupuncture) as factors; a no-treatment control group was also included to compare the treatment responses to no treatment. Recreationally active, acupuncture naïve young adults (n = 60) performed a GXT to exhaustion on a cycle ergometer (15 W/min). Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen consumption, respiratory rate and blood lactate were collected during the test and during 60 min of supine recovery on a plinth. An experienced acupuncturist delivered real or placebo acupuncture within 6 min of completing the GXT (total treatment time = 20 min). Real acupuncture points included Neiguan (PC6), Zusanli (ST36), Lieque (LU7), and Tanzhang (REN17), while placebo acupuncture was delivered using the Park sham needle placed 1–2 cm away from each real acupuncture point. The control group received no intervention. Results Linear and quadratic trend analyses over time indicated no significant differences between groups on any dependent variable. However, analysis of specific timepoints (every 10 min of the 60 min recovery) revealed that participants who received some form of treatment had a lower heart rate than participants in the no treatment control group (p = 0.042) at 20 min post-exercise. Further, a significant treatment by instruction interaction effect for heart rate was also found at 50 min (p = 0.042) and 60 min (p = 0.013) post-exercise, indicating that the differences between real and placebo acupuncture were affected by expectancy manipulation. No other significant effects were noted. However, it was interesting to note that participants who believed they were given real acupuncture reported quicker perceived recovery independent of actual treatment (p = 0.006) suggesting that instruction about treatment influenced perceived recovery. Conclusion In summary, due to limited evidence, the current study does not support the acute use of acupuncture for exercise recovery. However, importantly, the current study demonstrates that a balanced-placebo design is viable for testing acupuncture and expectancy effects, and this methodology could therefore be implemented in future studies. Trial registration ACTRN12612001015831 (Date registered: 20/09/2012).
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