1
|
Lin JG, Kotha P, Chen YH. Understandings of acupuncture application and mechanisms. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:1469-1481. [PMID: 35422904 PMCID: PMC8991130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Acupuncture involves the stimulation of acupoints, which are located at specific sites of the human body, by insertion of fine metal needles, followed by manipulation. Acupuncture has been proven to be an effective treatment in pain relief. Available evidence showed that acupuncture alleviates acute pain in conditions such as postoperative pain, acute back pain, labour pain, primary dysmenorrhea, tension-type headaches and migraines. In addition, acupuncture relieves chronic pain, for example, low back pain (LBP), knee osteoarthritis (KOA), headache, shoulder pain, and neck pain. For other diseases like insomnia, drug addiction and stroke, more high-quality randomized control trials (RCTs) are needed to confirm the efficacy of acupuncture, although there are particular difficulties surrounding adequate blinding and control group designs. Recent biomedical technology unveils the mechanisms of acupuncture. Studies have found that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels are involved in the stimulation of acupuncture at the acupoint area. In the central nervous system (CNS), neurotransmissions including opioids, serotonin, norepinephrine, orexin and endocannabinoid are modulated by acupuncture to induce analgesia. Moreover, acupuncture reduces cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels on the peripheral level by acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, mediating peripheral opioid release. Acupuncture helps to treat insomnia by inhibiting sympathetic activity and down-regulating the HPA axis. Additionally, acupuncture reduces the effects of positive and negative reinforcements by modulating dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. Recently, i-needles have been developed to allow for the analysis of metagenomics, meta-transcriptomics, and host-microbiome relationships following acupuncture, while skin implantable microsensors or needle-shaped microsensors are feasible for monitoring real-time microenvironmental changes in acupoints and even target organs. These studies may further accelerate the understanding of acupuncture's action mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaung-Geng Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical UniversityTaichung 40402, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical UniversityTaichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia UniversityTaichung 41354, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Tzu Chi UniversityHualien 970, Taiwan
| | - Peddanna Kotha
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical UniversityTaichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical UniversityTaichung 40402, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical UniversityTaichung 40402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ton G, Lee LW, Ho WC, Tu CH, Chen YH, Lee YC. Effects of Laser Acupuncture Therapy for Patients With Inadequate Recovery From Bell's Palsy: Preliminary Results From Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Study. J Lasers Med Sci 2022; 12:e70. [PMID: 35155155 DOI: 10.34172/jlms.2021.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Inadequate recovery from Bell's palsy exists in a third of patients and results in physical and social impairments. The controversial nature of existing medical treatment options means that novel, alternative approaches are needed. In basic and clinical studies, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has proven successful in regenerating peripheral nerves. Laser acupuncture therapy (LAT) is a rapidly growing treatment modality; however, its effectiveness for treating chronic Bell's palsy is unknown. The feasibility of this innovative approach is the focus of this pilot study. Methods: A two-armed, parallel, randomized, investigator-subject-assessor-blinded, sham-controlled pilot study was conducted, and 17 eligible subjects were randomly allocated to either LAT (n=8) or sham LAT (n=9). The LAT group received three treatments each week for six weeks (18 sessions), while the sham LAT group received the same procedure but with a sham laser device. The change from baseline to week 6 in the social subscale of the Facial Disability Index (FDI) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were changes in the House-Brackmann facial paralysis scale (HB), the Sunnybrook facial grading system (SB) and a stiffness scale at weeks 3 and 6. Results: A significant difference was shown in the HB score (P=0.0438) between baseline and week 3 and borderline significance was observed in both SB and stiffness scores from baseline to week 6 (P=0.0598 and P=0.0980 respectively). There was no significant difference in the FDI score between baseline and week 6. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this clinical trial is the first such investigation on this topic. Our findings suggest that using LAT may have clinical effects on long-term complications of Bell's palsy and justify further large-scale studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gil Ton
- College of Chinese medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wen Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402 Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chao Ho
- Department of Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hao Tu
- College of Chinese medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- College of Chinese medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Lee
- College of Chinese medicine, Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Department of Acupuncture, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40402 Taiwan.,Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 40402 Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Acupuncture Relieved Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Pilot Randomized Sham-Controlled Trial. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163694. [PMID: 34441990 PMCID: PMC8397157 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a disabling side effect caused by neurotoxic chemotherapy. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effect of manual acupuncture on CIPN. Twenty eligible breast cancer patients receiving taxane chemotherapy treatment were recruited and randomly divided into verum acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups. Each group received 15 treatments over 9 weeks. Quantitative tactile detection thresholds were measured using Semmes–Weinstein monofilament testing (SWM). The World Health Organization Quality of Life scale (WHOQOL-BREF), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group-Neurotoxicity (FACT/GOG-Ntx), and the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF) were measured before and after treatment. The between-group comparison of SWM revealed that the verum acupuncture group had more improvement of touch perception thresholds compared to the sham acupuncture group. The average pain severity in the BPI-SF of the verum acupuncture group was significantly lower than that of the sham acupuncture group. There were no significant differences in the FACT/GOG-Ntx trial outcome index and WHOQOL-BREF scores between the acupuncture and sham groups. The results suggest that acupuncture can alleviate the neuropathic pain of CIPN and improve touch perception thresholds.
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu Y, Chen W, Tan Y, Yang X, Liu J, Lu T, Yan S, He L, Liu B. Analysis of the Registration Information on Interventions of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Trials in the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2018; 2018:1054629. [PMID: 29552076 PMCID: PMC5820559 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1054629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze and compare the clinical registration information about acupuncture and moxibustion for intervention characteristics. METHODS Clinical trials from the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform of the World Health Organization in acupuncture and moxibustion were comprehensively collected from 2013 to 2015; data were independently screened and extracted by two retrievers, and relevant data involving either basic descriptions or intervention characteristics were analyzed. RESULTS 425 acupuncture and moxibustion registered clinical trials were included; 88.00% (374/425) were designed as controlled studies, among which 38.59% (164/425) had sham acupuncture as the control group. The most common diseases were pain-related at approximately 19.29% (82/425) of trials. Reports on the intervention information in these acupuncture and moxibustion clinical studies were not sufficiently presented; these reports included the reporting of names of points (39.8%), the method of needle stimulation (32.5%), needle type (29.6%), needle retention time (34.1%), the number of treatment sessions (22.4%), and the frequency and duration of treatment sessions (38.1%). CONCLUSION The registration information for the clinical trials of acupuncture and moxibustion was quite low according to this investigational study. Steps should be taken to improve the quality of acupuncture and moxibustion registration information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Postdoctoral Research Station, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
- Evidence Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Wenjie Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Yingxin Tan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Xingyue Yang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Tingting Lu
- Evidence Based Medicine Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Shiyan Yan
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Liyun He
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Baoyan Liu
- China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Putiri AL, Close JR, Lilly HR, Guillaume N, Sun GC. Qigong Exercises for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. MEDICINES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 4:medicines4030059. [PMID: 28930273 PMCID: PMC5622394 DOI: 10.3390/medicines4030059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: The purpose of this article is to clarify and define medical qigong and to identify an appropriate study design and methodology for a large-scale study looking at the effects of qigong in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), specifically subject enrollment criteria, selection of the control group and study duration. Methods: A comprehensive literature review of English databases was used to locate articles from 1980-May 2017 involving qigong and T2DM. Control groups, subject criteria and the results of major diabetic markers were reviewed and compared within each study. Definitions of qigong and its differentiation from physical exercise were also considered. Results: After a thorough review, it was found that qigong shows positive effects on T2DM; however, there were inconsistencies in control groups, research subjects and diabetic markers analyzed. It was also discovered that there is a large variation in styles and definitions of qigong. Conclusions: Qigong exercise has shown promising results in clinical experience and in randomized, controlled pilot studies for affecting aspects of T2DM including blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, weight, BMI and insulin resistance. Due to the inconsistencies in study design and methods and the lack of large-scale studies, further well-designed randomized control trials (RCT) are needed to evaluate the 'vital energy' or qi aspect of internal medical qigong in people who have been diagnosed with T2DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Putiri
- Institute of Qigong and Integrative Medicine (IQ & IM), 10127 Main Place, Suite B, Bothell, WA 98011, USA.
| | - Jacqueline R Close
- Institute of Qigong and Integrative Medicine (IQ & IM), 10127 Main Place, Suite B, Bothell, WA 98011, USA.
- Seattle Healing Acupuncture, LLC, 1307 N 45th Street, Suite 204, Seattle, WA 98103, USA.
| | - Harold Ryan Lilly
- Institute of Qigong and Integrative Medicine (IQ & IM), 10127 Main Place, Suite B, Bothell, WA 98011, USA.
| | - Nathalie Guillaume
- Institute of Qigong and Integrative Medicine (IQ & IM), 10127 Main Place, Suite B, Bothell, WA 98011, USA.
- Healing Happy Hour, 930 Grand Concourse, Ground FL, New York, NY 10451, USA.
| | - Guan-Cheng Sun
- Institute of Qigong and Integrative Medicine (IQ & IM), 10127 Main Place, Suite B, Bothell, WA 98011, USA.
- Bastyr University Research Institute, 14500 Juanita Dr. NE, Kenmore, WA 98028, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim M, Choi EJ, Kim SP, Kim JE, Park HJ, Kim AR, Seo BN, Kwon OJ, Cho JH, Chung SY, Kim JH. Electroacupuncture plus moxibustion therapy for patients with major depressive disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2017; 18:16. [PMID: 28086934 PMCID: PMC5234128 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-016-1741-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders and has a significant societal economic burden. Antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy are two primary interventions for the standardized treatment of MDD. However, their weaknesses, such as a low response rate, a high risk of adverse events from medication, and the high cost of cognitive behavioral therapy, have resulted in a need for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Among the various therapeutic interventions in CAM, electroacupuncture and moxibustion have been widely used to treat various mental illnesses, including MDD. The aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of conducting a full-scale randomized controlled trial to investigate the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture plus moxibustion therapy for MDD. Methods/design We will include patients between the ages of 19 to 65 years with MDD. A total of 30 participants will be recruited, and they will be randomly allocated into two groups at a 1:1 ratio. Patients in the treatment and control groups will, respectively, receive real and sham electroacupuncture/moxibustion treatments, for a total of 20 sessions over 8 weeks. The primary outcome will be the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and the secondary outcomes will be Beck’s Depression Inventory, the Insomnia Severity Index, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the EuroQol 5-Dimension Index, the Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile version 2, and electroencephalography. Adverse events will be monitored at each visit to assess safety. All outcomes will be assessed and analyzed by researchers blinded to the treatment allocation. Discussion This is a two-armed, parallel-design, patient-assessor blinded, multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled pilot clinical trial. Data will be analyzed before and after treatment and during a 4-week follow-up. The results of the trial will provide a basis for further studies assessing the efficacy and safety of electroacupuncture plus moxibustion treatment for MDD. Trial registration Korean Clinical Trial Registry, CRIS-KCT0001810. Registered on 5 February 2016 (retrospectively registered; date of enrollment of the first participant to the trial: 2 December 2015). Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13063-016-1741-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikyung Kim
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Ji Choi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 892 Dongnam-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Phil Kim
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Eun Kim
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo-Ju Park
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ae-Ran Kim
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bok-Nam Seo
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - O-Jin Kwon
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hyo Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Traditional Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, 176-9, Daeheung-ro, Jung-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun-Yong Chung
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 892 Dongnam-ro, Gangdong-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Joo-Hee Kim
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672 Yuseongdae-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chiu H, Hsieh Y, Tsai P. Systematic review and meta-analysis of acupuncture to reduce cancer-related pain. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 26. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- H.Y. Chiu
- School of Nursing; College of Nursing; Taipei Medical University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - Y.J. Hsieh
- School of Nursing; College of Nursing; Taipei Medical University; Taipei Taiwan
| | - P.S. Tsai
- School of Nursing; College of Nursing; Taipei Medical University; Taipei Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Deng SZ, Zhao XF, Huang LH, He S, Wen Y, Zhang C, Tian G, Wang T, Wu FF, Meng ZH, Shi XM. The quantity-effect relationship and physiological mechanisms of different acupuncture manipulations on posterior circulation ischemia with vertigo: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2015; 16:152. [PMID: 25872507 PMCID: PMC4394417 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-015-0660-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent experiments have demonstrated that different needling manipulations may induce variable effects via diverse physiological mechanisms. A previous study indicated that needling at Fengchi (GB 20) improved cerebral blood flow in patients with vertigo induced by posterior circulation ischemia (PCI). In this study, we aim to explore the quantity-effect relationship and the physiological mechanisms underlying different acupuncture manipulations in PCI patients with vertigo. Methods/Design We propose a pragmatic randomized and controlled trial. All participants, outcome assessors, and statisticians will be blinded. A total of 144 eligible participants will be randomized into one of four treatment groups receiving acupuncture at Fengchi (GB 20) with different one-minute manipulation parameters. Group 1 will receive twirling at a frequency of 60 times per minute toward the contralateral outer canthus at a depth of 0.5 to 0.8 cun. Group 2 will receive twirling at a frequency of 60 times per minute toward the Adam’s apple at a depth of 0.5 to 0.8 cun. Group 3 will receive twirling at a frequency of 120 times per minute toward the contralateral outer canthus at a depth of 0.5 to 0.8 cun. Group 4 will receive twirling at a frequency of120 times per minute toward the Adam’s apple at a depth of 0.5 to 0.8 cun. Additional points will be added based on individualized pattern diagnoses. The participants will receive 14 acupuncture sessions over 3 to 4 weeks. The subjects will be assessed at two time points: baseline and post-treatment. The primary outcome measurements will include subjective measurements (Vertebrobasilar System Ischemic Neurological Impairment Scale, UCLA Dizziness Questionnaire, Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Psychological and Social Adaptation Scale) and objective measurements (Transcranial Doppler, carotid ultrasonography and changes in cerebral oxygenation) to reduce bias arising from the placebo effect. We will use metabolomics to investigate the mechanisms underlying the different manipulation parameters. Discussion This trial aims to explore the quantity-effect relationship between different acupuncture manipulations and their clinical effects. The results from this study may help explain the contradictory results found in acupuncture studies that practice different manipulations. Trial registration Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-RTRCC-12002675 (registered on 14 November 2012).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Zhe Deng
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhao
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, Tianjin, 300193, China.
| | - Ling-Hui Huang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Si He
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Yan Wen
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Guang Tian
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Tian Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Fen-Fen Wu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Zhi-Hong Meng
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| | - Xue-Min Shi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 314, West Anshan Avenue, 300193, Tianjin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Curtis D. Letter to the editor. Clin Exp Optom 2015; 98:99. [DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
10
|
Chen WT, Chang FC, Chen YH, Lin JG. An Evaluation of Electroacupuncture at the Weizhong Acupoint (BL-40) as a Means of Relieving Pain Induced by Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2014; 2014:592319. [PMID: 25152761 PMCID: PMC4135135 DOI: 10.1155/2014/592319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the preferred option for urolithiasis treatment. However, intensities of pain may be induced and the sedative anesthetic or analgesics were usually needed. The aim of this study was to develop an improved acupuncture-assisted anesthesia approach in pain relief. Methods. We conducted a single-blind, randomized controlled study in China Medical University Hospital. Patients treated by ESWL due to upper urolithiasis were randomly divided into control group, sham-EA group, and 100 Hz EA group. The high frequency electroacupuncture (EA) was applied at the Weizhong acupoint (100 Hz EA group) for 20 minutes prior to the ESWL. In the sham-EA group, the same procedures were performed as those of 100 Hz EA group but no electric current was given to stimulate the acupoints. In the control group, no action was taken before operation. The information including the numbers and dosage of analgesic requirements, pain score, vital signs, and the satisfaction of procedure was collected. Results. A total of 74 subjects were recruited and we found that the interval to the first request analgesic, the number/total dosage of additional analgesic, recovery time from anesthesia, and the satisfaction were all better in both the 100 Hz EA and the sham-EA group. The 100 Hz EA also showed better relief of painful sensations by delaying the onset of pain. Conclusions. The 100 Hz EA and the sham-EA can effectively relieve pain due to ESWL as well as reducing the dosage of opium analgesic used.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Ta Chen
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taiwan Landseed Hospital, No. 77, Kwang-Tai Road, Ping-jen City, Tao-Yuan County 32405, Taiwan
| | - Fang-Chia Chang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hung Chen
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Jaung-Geng Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jeong D, Hyun MK, Jeong JC, Park JK, Choi MS, Kim DI, Lee DN. Acupuncture as an adjunct treatment to increase the success rate of vitro in fertilisation: an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.13048/jkm.14016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
|
12
|
Wang BH, Lin CL, Li TM, Lin SD, Lin JG, Chou LW. Selection of acupoints for managing upper-extremity spasticity in chronic stroke patients. Clin Interv Aging 2014; 9:147-56. [PMID: 24453485 PMCID: PMC3894143 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s53814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the clinical efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in inhibiting upper-extremity spasticity in chronic stroke patients, and also in mapping a unique preliminary acupoint-selection protocol. METHODS Fifteen patients were divided into two groups: patients in the control group (n=6) received minimal acupuncture (MA), and those in the experimental group (n=9) received EA. Four acupoints, which include Neiguan (PC6), Shaohai (HT3), Zeqian (Ex-UE, A32), and Shounizhu (EX-UE), were treated near the motor points of the muscles for elbow flexion, forearm pronation, and finger flexion. Both groups were treated for twelve sessions, 20 minutes per session, for 6 weeks (two sessions per week). The outcome measures in this study included angle of muscle reaction (R1), passive range of motion (R2), and dynamic component (R2-R1). RESULTS In the experimental group, the R2-R1 of the elbow joint was significantly decreased at 1 (P=0.0079), 3 (P=0.0013), and 6 weeks (P=0.0149) after treatment compared with pretreatment levels (P<0.05). The between-group difference in the R2-R1 of the elbow joint after the 6-week treatment was statistically significant. CONCLUSION Combining the 6-week EA and standard rehabilitation treatment reduced the spasticity of the elbow for chronic stroke survivors. However, no significant effect was observed in the spasticity of the wrist joints. The choice of acupoints and the frequency of EA have to be taken into account to achieve a positive treatment effect. The correlation between acupoints and motor points provides a model of acupoint selection to improve spasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Huei Wang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Lin Lin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Te-Mao Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Taichung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Din Lin
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jaung-Geng Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Chou
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, Taichung, Taiwan
- Acupuncture Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bittner AK, Gould JM, Rosenfarb A, Rozanski C, Dagnelie G. A pilot study of an acupuncture protocol to improve visual function in retinitis pigmentosa patients. Clin Exp Optom 2013; 97:240-7. [PMID: 24773463 DOI: 10.1111/cxo.12117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with retinitis pigmentosa are motivated to try complementary or integrative therapies to slow disease progression. Basic science, clinical research and retinitis pigmentosa patients' self-reports support the hypothesis that acupuncture may improve visual function. METHODS A prospective, case series, pilot study enrolled 12 adult patients with RP treated at an academic medical centre with a standardised protocol that combined electroacupuncture to the forehead and below the eyes and acupuncture to the body, at 10 half-hour sessions over two weeks. Pre- and post-treatment tests included Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study visual acuity (VA), Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity (CS), Goldmann visual fields, and dark-adapted full-field stimulus threshold (FST)(n = 9). Scotopic Sensitivity Tester-1 (SST-1) dark-adaptometry was performed on the last two subjects. RESULTS Six of 12 subjects had measurable, significant visual function improvements after treatment. Three of nine subjects tested with the FST had a significant 10.3 to 17.5 dB (that is, 13- to 53-fold) improvement in both eyes at one week after acupuncture, maintained for at least 10 to 12 months, which was well outside typical test-retest variability (95% CI: 3-3.5 dB) previously found in retinitis pigmentosa. SST-1 dark-adaptation was shortened in both subjects tested on average by 48.5 per cent at one week (range 36 to 62 per cent across 10 to 30 dB), which was outside typical coefficients of variation of less than 30 per cent previously determined in patients with retinitis pigmentosa and normals. Four of the five subjects with psychophysically measured scotopic sensitivity improvements reported subjective improvements in vision at night or in dark environments. One subject had 0.2 logMAR improvement in VA; another had 0.55 logCS improvement. Another subject developed more than 20 per cent improvement in the area of the Goldmann visual fields. The acupuncture protocol was completed and well tolerated by all, without adverse events or visual loss. CONCLUSIONS Acupuncture entails minimal risk, if administered by a well-trained acupuncturist and may have significant, measurable benefits on residual visual function in patients with retinitis pigmentosa, in particular scotopic sensitivity, which had not previously been studied. These preliminary findings support the need for future controlled studies of potential mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ava K Bittner
- Johns Hopkins University, Wilmer Eye Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang CS, Yang AW, Zhang AL, May BH, Xue CC. Sham control methods used in ear-acupuncture/ear-acupressure randomized controlled trials: a systematic review. J Altern Complement Med 2013; 20:147-61. [PMID: 24138333 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2013.0238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ear-acupuncture/ear-acupressure (EAP) has been used for a range of health conditions with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating its efficacy and safety. However, the design of sham interventions in these RCTs varied significantly. This study systematically reviewed RCTs on EAP for all clinical conditions involving a number of sham EAPs as a control intervention. The review is guided by the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions 5.1.0 and investigated the types and differences of sham EAP interventions. Four electronic English databases (The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL®) and two Chinese databases (CQVIP, CNKI) were searched in December 2012 and 55 published RCTs comparing real and sham EAP for any clinical condition were included. Characteristics of participants, real and sham interventions, and outcomes were extracted. Four types of sham methods were identified. Among the 55 RCTs, 25 studies involved treatment on nonspecific ear acupoints as the sham method; seven studies used nonacupoints on the ear; nine studies selected placebo needles or placebo ear-acupressure on the same ear acupoints for the real treatment; 10 studies employed pseudo-intervention; and five studies combined two of the above methods to be the sham control. Other factors of treatment such as number of points, treatment duration, and frequency also varied greatly. Risk of bias assessment suggests that 32 RCTs were "high risk" in terms of participants blinding, and 45 RCTs were "high risk" in terms of personnel blinding. Meta-analysis was not conducted due to the high clinical heterogeneity across included studies. No relationship was found between the sham designs and efficacy outcomes, or between the sham types and dropout rate. No solid conclusion of which design is the most appropriate sham control of EAP could be drawn in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Shuiqing Zhang
- 1 Discipline of Chinese Medicine, School of Health Sciences, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|