Impacts of the combined treatment of Tongdu Tiaoshen moxibustion and rehabilitation training on the motor function recovery of the upper limbs in the patients with apoplectic hemiplegia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To observe the impacts of the combined treatment of Tongdu Tiaoshen moxibustion (moxibustion for promoting the circulation of the governor vessel and regulating the spirit) and rehabilitation training on the motor function recovery in the patients with apoplectic hemiplegia. Methods: A total of 50 patients with apoplectic hemiplegia and qualified in the trial recruitment criteria were divided into two groups according to random number table, 25 cases in each group. In the control group, the simple rehabilitation training was provided. In the observation group, on the base of the treatment as the control group, Tongdu Tiaoshen moxibustion was given. Main acupoints: Baihui (百会GV20), Fēngfŭ (风府GV16) and Dazhuī (大椎GV14). The treatment was given once a day, 6 treatments a week, 4 weeks as one course and two courses of treatment were required. Before and after treatment, the scores of Fugle-Meyer assessment (FMA), the modified Barthel index (MBI) and action research arm test (ARAT) were detected before and after treatment in the two groups separately. Results: After 4 and 8 weeks of treatment, the scores of FMA, MBI and ARAT were all improved obviously as compared with those before treatment respectively in patients of the two groups(all P Conclusion: The combined treatment of Tongdu Tiaoshen moxibustion and rehabilitation training promotes the recovery of the upper limb motor function and improves the self-ability of living activities in the patients with apoplectic hemiplegia. The long-term effect of this combined therapy is superior to that of simple rehabilitation training.