Stimulation Of Acupuncture Points Research Articles

Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation of acupuncture points improves tolerance in adults undergoing diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: a single-center, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.

Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGDS) is the most common diagnostic procedure for upper gastrointestinal diseases. It often causes discomfort and anxiety, which are only mitigated by systemic sedation. However, sedation poses additional risks of adverse cardiopulmonary events, increased medical costs, and prolonged recovery. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation of acupuncture points (Acu-TENS) is a non-invasive and innovative approach that induces analgesic effect during endoscopy. This trial is the first to be reported in English that explores the potential of Acu-TENS to increase patient tolerance during non-sedated elective diagnostic OGDS. A double-blinded randomized controlled trial involving 348 subjects was conducted at a tertiary hospital to evaluate the success rate of OGDS with Acu-TENS. Subjects aged 18-75years scheduled for their first elective diagnostic OGDS were randomized into the intervention (Acu-TENS) and placebo arms. OGDS success was assessed based on subjects' satisfaction ratings on a Likert scale and procedure's technical adequacy. Secondary measures included subjects' willingness to undergo future OGDS under similar conditions, procedure duration, and the endoscopist's perceived ease of the procedure. OGDS success rates were significantly higher with Acu-TENS (77.8%) than with the placebo (68.0%; odds ratio [OR] 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-2.66, p = 0.043). Subjects who received Acu-TENS expressed higher willingness for future OGDS (78.9%) than those who received the placebo (68.6%; OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.04-2.79, p = 0.031). Procedure duration were significantly shorter in the intervention arm (6.0min) than in the placebo arm (10.0min; p = 0.002). No adverse effects were reported, and endoscopists perceived similar procedure ease in both arms. Acu-TENS improved OGDS success and enhanced patients' experiences during non-sedated OGDS. It demonstrated safety with no side effects and reduced the procedure completion time. It could be used as an adjunct in non-sedated diagnostic OGDS.

탈모 및 두피특성에 따른 괄사요법 인지도와 만족도에 관한 연구

This study is a research study on awareness of meridian scraping therapy. Meridian scraper prevents many diseases and has the effect of keeping the body healthy and the face beautiful. Meridian scraper, which means ‘cure illness by scratching,’ is a natural healing method that cleanses away stubborn dirt from the body and unclogs clogged blood vessels, revitalizing energy, just by stimulating acupuncture points. However, despite this clinical research value, research on meridian scraper has been limited to simple body management or stress and has only confirmed that it is effective to some extent. In other words, the reality is that a sufficient theoretical summary of meridian scraper has not been achieved through prior research and a review of the scientific literature, and systematic clinical research based on the principles and theories derived from this summary is lacking. Considering the academic research value of meridian scraper, which has recently been in the spotlight again, it is judged that more in-depth research is needed, and it is hoped that further developmental research on meridian scraper will be conducted in the future based on research on the principles and efficacy of meridian scraping therapy.

Observation on efficacy and underlying mechanism of cheek acupuncture on ovulation induction for infertile women with PCOS: Case series.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common reproductive endocrine disorder among women of childbearing age and is the primary cause of anovulatory infertility, accounting for 70% to 80% of cases. Ovulation induction is the main treatment approach for infertile patients with PCOS. Commonly utilized medications for this purpose are clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole (LE). Clomiphene citrate administration results in an ovulation rate ranging from 60% to 85%, while the pregnancy rate is limited to 35% to 40%, and a further reduction is observed in live birth rates. Letrozole demonstrates a slightly higher pregnancy rate and live birth rate compared to clomiphene citrate, although challenges persist in terms of longer stimulation cycles, multiple pregnancies, and the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Clinical reports indicate that acupuncture therapy shows promising efficacy in treating patients with PCOS-related infertility, despite a partially unclear understanding of its underlying mechanisms. In this study, one patient did not achieve pregnancy despite more than a year of ovulation induction using clomiphene citrate and letrozole. However, after 3 months of receiving cheek acupuncture therapy, she successfully conceived and gave birth to a liveborn baby. Another patient achieved natural conception and live birth after 2 months of exclusive cheek acupuncture therapy. PCOS. Cheek acupuncture therapy. Both of them successfully conceived and gave birth to a liveborn baby. These findings suggest that cheek acupuncture therapy can effectively stimulate follicle development and ovulation, potentially improving endometrial receptivity. According to holographic theory, there is a biologically holographic model within the cheek region that shares a homology with the human body structure. This model provides an explanation for the regulatory effects of cheek acupuncture point stimulation on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian axis (HPO), which subsequently influences follicle development and ovulation in patients. Consequently, when cheek acupuncture therapy is applied alone or in combination with ovulation induction medication, patients have the ability to achieve successful pregnancy and experience a smooth delivery.

Effects of Acupuncture-Point Stimulation on Perioperative Sleep Disorders: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis.

Perioperative sleep disorders exert a severe adverse impact on postoperative recovery. Recently, some observational studies reported that acupuncture-point stimulation (APS) provided benefits for promoting perioperative sleep quality. However, the effects of APS on perioperative sleep disorders following general anesthesia have not been thoroughly assessed by any systematic study and meta-analysis. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to reveal the effects of APS on perioperative sleep disorders. Eight databases (Chinese: CNKI, VIP, CBM, and Wanfang; English: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) were thoroughly searched to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that indicated a link between APS and the occurrence of perioperative sleep disorders. We applied RevMan 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration) and Stata 16.0 (Stata Corp) to conduct our meta-analysis. In addition, the trial sequential analysis (TSA) tool was utilized to estimate the validity and reliability of the data. In this study, nine RCTs with 719 patients were conducted. Compared to the control group, APS significantly improved perioperative subjective sleep quality (SMD: -1.36; 95% CI: -1.71 to -1.01; P < 0.00001). Besides, it increased perioperative TST (preoperative period MD = 24.29, 95% CI: 6.4 to 42.18, P = 0.0008; postoperative period MD = 45.86, 95% CI: 30.00 to 61.71, P < 0.00001) and SE (preoperative MD = 3.62, 95% CI: 2.84 to 4.39, P < 0.00001; postoperative MD = 6.43, 95% CI: 0.95 to 11.73, P < 0.00001). The consequence of trial sequential analysis further confirmed the reliability of our meta-analysis results. According to the currently available evidence, APS could effectively improve perioperative sleep quality and play an essential role in decreasing the incidence of perioperative sleep disorders.

Evidence of the acupuncture points stimulation for the treatment of hypogalactia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveTo perform a literature review aimed to analyze if acupoint stimulation increases lactation quantity. MethodStudies were collected from five electronic databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for systematic reviews. Eligibility criteria were full-text articles in English or Spanish with clinical trial design and observational studies, with no restriction on time of publication, in which the effect of acupoint stimulation on improving the quantity of lactation by conventional acupuncture, electroacupuncture, laser, fire needling, manual stimulation, tuina or catgut had been evaluated. Two authors independently extracted data for the characteristics and main outcomes of the studies selected for inclusion. The risk of bias (RoB 2 and Robins-I) and the quality assessments (GRADE) were performed. For the quantitative synthesis, the standardized mean difference was calculated for each individual study selected and then the data were combined using a random-effects meta-analysis. ResultsA total of 14 studies were included in the present review. Most of the included studies exhibited some concerns in the risk of bias assessment. The quality of the studies was moderate. The meta-analysis showed that manual acupoint stimulation improves the lactation quantity (SMD 95% CI = 1.63 [1.13-2.13]; p < 0.0001). ConclusionThe literature suggests that manual stimulation of acupuncture points improves the amount of milk produced during lactation.

Evidencia de la estimulación de puntos de acupuntura en el tratamiento de la hipogalactia: revisión sistemática con metaanálisis

ObjectiveTo perform a literature review aimed to analyze if acupoint stimulation increases lactation quantity. MethodStudies were collected from five electronic databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for systematic reviews. Eligibility criteria were full-text articles in English or Spanish with clinical trial design and observational studies, with no restriction on time of publication, in which the effect of acupoint stimulation on improving the quantity of lactation by conventional acupuncture, electroacupuncture, laser, fire needling, manual stimulation, tuina or catgut had been evaluated. Two authors independently extracted data for the characteristics and main outcomes of the studies selected for inclusion. The risk of bias (RoB 2 and Robins-I) and the quality assessments (GRADE) were performed. For the quantitative synthesis, the standardized mean difference was calculated for each individual study selected and then the data were combined using a random-effects meta-analysis. ResultsA total of 14 studies were included in the present review. Most of the included studies exhibited some concerns in the risk of bias assessment. The quality of the studies was moderate. The meta-analysis showed that manual acupoint stimulation improves the lactation quantity (SMD 95% CI=1.63 [1.13-2.13]; p<0.0001). ConclusionThe literature suggests that manual stimulation of acupuncture points improves the amount of milk produced during lactation.

Using energy psychology to remediate emotional wounds rooted in childhood trauma: preliminary clinical guidelines.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood, such as violence, abuse, severe neglect, or mental health problems in caregivers. The negative physical and mental health consequences of severe or multiple ACEs provide a major challenge for the health care community. Psychotherapies that utilize a mind-body approach in treating ACE-related conditions are seen by their proponents as having advantages for bringing healing and restoration compared with talk, introspective, interpersonal, and exposure therapies that do not intervene at the body level, as famously encapsulated by Bessel van der Kolk's observation that "the body keeps the score." A mind-body approach whose use has been rapidly increasing in clinical settings as well as on a self-help basis is called "energy psychology." Energy psychology combines conventional therapeutic techniques such as cognitive restructuring and psychological exposure with the stimulation of acupuncture points (acupoints) by tapping on them. A review of the development, efficacy, and plausible mechanisms of energy psychology is presented, and several strengths are enumerated, such as how integrating acupoint tapping into conventional exposure methods enhances the speed and power of outcomes. The impact of energy psychology protocols on the three brain networks most centrally involved with ACEs is also examined. Finally, recommendations are offered for using an energy psychology approach at each stage of therapy with individuals who have endured severe or multiple ACES, from establishing a therapeutic alliance to assessment to treatment to follow-up.

41267 Acupuncture Point Stimulation Treatments as Adjuvant Therapy of Uremic Pruritus: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

41267 Acupuncture Point Stimulation Treatments as Adjuvant Therapy of Uremic Pruritus: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Effectiveness of technology-based interventions compared with other non-pharmacological interventions for relieving procedural pain in hospitalized neonates: a systematic review.

The objective of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of technology-based interventions for relieving procedural pain among hospitalized neonates compared with other non-pharmacological interventions. Neonates who require hospital care often experience acute pain during medical procedures. The current best practice for relieving pain in neonates is the use of non-pharmacological interventions, such as oral solutions or intervention-based human touch. Technological solutions (eg, games, eHealth applications, mechanical vibrators) have become more commonplace in pediatric pain management over recent years. However, there is a sizeable knowledge gap concerning how effective technology-based interventions are for relieving pain in neonates. This review considered experimental trials that include technology-based, non-pharmacological interventions for relieving procedural pain among hospitalized neonates. The primary outcomes of interest include pain response to a procedure measured by a pain assessment scale validated for neonates, behavioral indicators, and changes in physiological indicators. The search strategy aimed to identify both published and unpublished studies. PubMed MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MedNar, and EBSCO Open Dissertations databases were searched for studies published in English, Finnish, or Swedish. Critical appraisal and data extraction were conducted by 2 independent researchers who adhered to JBI methodology. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to considerable heterogeneity in the studies; as a result, the findings are presented narratively. A total of 10 randomized controlled trials involving 618 children were included in the review. The staff members delivering the interventions and the outcome assessors were not blinded in all of the studies, which introduced a potential risk of bias. The presented technology-based interventions were diverse, including laser acupuncture, noninvasive electrical stimulation of acupuncture points, robot platform, vibratory stimulation, recorded maternal voice, and recorded intrauterine voice. In the studies, pain was measured using validated pain scales, behavioral indicators, and physiological variables. In the studies in which pain was assessed with a validated pain measure (N=8), technology-based pain relief was significantly more effective than the comparator in 2 studies, whereas no statistically significant differences were observed in 4 studies and the technology-based intervention was less effective than the comparator in 2 studies. The effectiveness of technology-based interventions in relieving neonatal pain, either as a standalone method or in combination with another non-pharmacological method, was mixed. Further research is needed to provide reliable evidence on which technology-based, non-pharmacological pain relief intervention is most effective for hospitalized neonates. [http://links.lww.com/SRX/A19].

Efficacy and safety of acupuncture-point stimulation combined with opioids for the treatment of moderate to severe cancer pain: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Pain is one of the most common and troublesome symptoms of cancer. Although potential positive effects of acupuncture-point stimulation (APS) on cancer pain have been observed, knowledge regarding the selection of the optimal APS remains unclear because of a lack of evidence from head-to-head randomized controlled trials (RCTs). This study aimed to carry out a network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of different APS combined with opioids in treating moderate to severe cancer pain and rank these methods for practical consideration. A comprehensive search of eight electronic databases was conducted to obtain RCTs involving different APS combined with opioids for moderate to severe cancer pain. Data were screened and extracted independently using predesigned forms. The quality of RCTs was appraised with the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool. The primary outcome was the total pain relief rate. Secondary outcomes were the total incidence of adverse reactions, the incidence of nausea and vomiting, and the incidence of constipation. We applied a frequentist, fixed-effect network meta-analysis model to pool effect sizes across trials using rate ratios (RR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Network meta-analysis was performed using Stata/SE 16.0. We included 48 RCTs, which consisted of 4,026 patients, and investigated nine interventions. A network meta-analysis showed that a combination of APS and opioids was superior in relieving moderate to severe cancer pain and reducing the incidence of adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation compared to opioids alone. The ranking of total pain relief rates was as follows: fire needle (surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) = 91.1%), body acupuncture (SUCRA = 85.0%), point embedding (SUCRA = 67.7%), auricular acupuncture (SUCRA = 53.8%), moxibustion (SUCRA = 41.9%), transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) (SUCRA = 39.0%), electroacupuncture (SUCRA = 37.4%), and wrist-ankle acupuncture (SUCRA = 34.1%). The ranking of total incidence of adverse reactions was as follows: auricular acupuncture (SUCRA = 23.3%), electroacupuncture (SUCRA = 25.1%), fire needle (SUCRA = 27.2%), point embedding (SUCRA = 42.6%), moxibustion (SUCRA = 48.2%), body acupuncture (SUCRA = 49.8%), wrist-ankle acupuncture (SUCRA = 57.8%), TEAS (SUCRA = 76.3%), and opioids alone (SUCRA = 99.7%). APS seemed to be effective in relieving cancer pain and reducing opioid-related adverse reactions. Fire needle combined with opioids may be a promising intervention to reduce moderate to severe cancer pain as well as reduce opioid-related adverse reactions. However, the evidence was not conclusive. More high-quality trials investigating the stability of evidence levels of different interventions on cancer pain must be conducted. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/#searchadvanced, identifier CRD42022362054.

Mechanical effects of needle texture on acupoint tissue

ObjectiveThis study aims to clarify how the stimulation of acupuncture points is achieved by needles with different surface texture during acupuncture; it also seeks to lessen injury at the insertion site and increase the therapeutic efficacy of acupuncture, by simulating the mechanical effects of various needle surface patterns on Zusanli (ST36) without changing the radius of acupuncture needles. MethodsFive acupuncture needle models with different surface patterns, including the smooth needle, the lined needle, the ringed needle, the left-hand threaded needle and the right-hand threaded needle, and a layered model of the Zusanli acupoint were used to investigate how to reduce tissue damage and increase stimulation during acupuncture treatment. Puncturing of the skin as well as lifting-inserting and twisting needle manipulations were simulated using these models, and the degree of damage and force of stimulation caused by the acupuncture needles with different surface patterns during acupuncture were compared. ResultsThe smooth needle and the lined needle caused the least tissue damage during insertion, while the left-hand threaded and the right-hand threaded needles caused the most damage. The ringed needle, the left-hand threaded needle and the right-hand threaded needle stimulated the acupoint tissue more during lifting-inserting manipulations, while the lined needle and the smooth needle produced less stimulation. The stimulation of the lined needle on the acupoint tissue was the largest during twisting manipulation, whereas the left-hand threaded needle and the right-hand threaded needle had smaller effects. In lifting-inserting and twisting manipulations, both the left-hand threaded needle and right-hand threaded needle provided more stimulation, but the torsion direction in which they produced better stimulation was the opposite. ConclusionAccording to the simulation results, the ringed pattern enhances stimulation best in the lifting-inserting manipulation, whereas the lined pattern enhances stimulation best in the twisting manipulation. Both the right-hand and left-hand thread patterns have certain enhancing effects in these two operations. Taking the geometric properties of the pattern into account, the left-hand thread pattern and the right-hand thread pattern have the geometric characteristics of both the lined pattern and the ringed pattern. To conclude, a pattern perpendicular to the movement direction during the acupuncture manipulation creates more stimulation. These results have significance for future needle design.Please cite this article as: Sun MZ, Wang X, Li YC, Yao W, Gu W. Mechanical effects of needle texture on acupoint tissue. J Integr Med. 2023; 21(3): 254–267.

Integrating the manual stimulation of acupuncture points into psychotherapy: A systematic review with clinical recommendations.

Integrating the manual stimulation of acupuncture points into psychotherapy: A systematic review with clinical recommendations.

Abstract OT1-18-01: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN ACUPUNCTURE AND EXERCISE IN IMPROVING DERMAL SENSITIVITY DURING PACLITAXEL-CONTAINING CHEMOTHERAPY: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To compare skin sensitivity in patients diagnosed with breast cancer undergoing cycles of chemotherapy with taxanes, applied three different techniques, acupuncture needles, acupuncture with silicon tablets (Stiper) and kinesiotherapy. DESIGN: Randomized, controlled, open, parallel clinical trial. Inclusion criteria: women undergoing chemotherapy with taxanes from the 1st cycle onwards both neoadjuvant and adjuvant with stages I to III. Excluded were women with pre-existing diseases such as cancer in locoregional or distant activity, previous joint pain, rheumatologic diseases, and not undergoing chemotherapy containing Anthracyclines and/or Cisplatin, and those who had acupuncture in another service in the last three. METHODS: This study was carried out at the Oncomastology, Outpatient Clinic of the Mastology Discipline of the Gynecology Department of the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP). 102 patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Excluded 39 patients,63 volunteers were selected and randomized, allocated to three groups (Group S:Stiper n=26, Group A Acupuncture n=18: and Group C: Kinesiotherapy n=19) to undergo treatment once a week for ten consecutive weeks. Signed the Informed Consent Form and agreed to participate in the project (ICF). INTERVENTION: Division of the groups, GS - non-invasive acupuncture technique (silicon pads covered with acrylic blanket) are used for stimulation of acupuncture points on the meridians. GA: acupuncture applied the technique with sterile, disposable systemic needles, (measuring 0.25mm x 30mm) for stimulation of the acupuncture points on the meridians. GC Kinesiotherapy, a physiotherapy technique consisting of upper and lower limb exercises and lower limb proprioception training and sensitivity improvement with vibration. GS, GA, performed acupuncture on the acupoints (B11Dazhu, SI14 Jianwaishu, CV12 Zhongwan, GB34 Yanglingquan, SP6 Sanyinjiao, LR3 Taichong), frequency of 1 time per week, for 10 consecutive weeks, duration of 30 minutes per session. To evaluate Sensitivity, the stesiometer was used, consisting of microfilaments thickness and the force (in grams) needed to bend the filaments, the colors and values are: green (0.05 g), blue (0.2 g), violet (2.0 g), dark red (4.0 g), orange (10.0 g) and magenta red (300 g).The evaluation of quality of life FACT/GOG-Ntx before and after treatment. RESULTS: The qualitative demographic characteristics of patients at the chemotherapy. Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy was predominantly in the three groups: GS(88.5%), GA(83.3%)and GC(89.5%), p=0.83. Cancer type CINE (Non-special Invasive Carcinoma), GS(92.6%), GA (93.8%) and GC (94.4%), p= 0.58. Diabetes Melittus GS(84.6%), GA(77.8%) and GC(79.8%), p=0.82 and Systemic Hypertension GS(72%), GA(72.2%) and GC(52.6%), p=0, 32. The C6D upper limb skin sensitivity assessment (p &amp;lt; 0.04 intergroup GS, GA and GC). T1D (p &amp;lt; 0.03 intergroup GS, GA and GC), corresponds to the forearm region. FACT/GOG-Ntx quality of life questionnaire in the domains (PWB, FWB and TaxS), Taxane Trial Outcome Index (TOI) comparing 1st session with 10th session p&amp;lt; 0.02, TaxS (Evaluates Symptoms of Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy) comparing 1st session with 10th session p&amp;lt; 0.03. Taxane total score) comparing 1st session with 10th session, p&amp;lt; 0.03. CONCLUSION: The C6 right hand and T1 right forearm sensitivity changes showed improvement in skin sensitivity after the intragroup intervention. FACT/GOG-Ntx questionnaire showed worsening of symptoms, physical, functional and peripheral neuropathy symptoms induced by chemotherapy compared to before and after. The cutaneous sensitivity of hands and feet remained stable and improved in the upper limbs, but chemotherapy had a negative impact on the quality of life, requiring further studies to evaluate the neuropathy of these patients. Keywords: Acupuncture, Chemotherapy, Quality of Life, Integrative and Complementary Practices.Table 1. Characteristics of skin sensitivity between groupsTable 1. Characteristics of skin sensitivity between groups Citation Format: ROBERTA P. COSTA LUZ, Carmen S. Alliz, Samantha K. Lopes de Almeida Rizzi, Cinira Haddad, Christiano Bittencourt Machado, Afonso Nazário, Gil Facina. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS BETWEEN ACUPUNCTURE AND EXERCISE IN IMPROVING DERMAL SENSITIVITY DURING PACLITAXEL-CONTAINING CHEMOTHERAPY: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2022 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2022 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(5 Suppl):Abstract nr OT1-18-01.

A Chinese ‘modern’ device transforming the traditional healers’ practices in Cameroon

In the field of health, China's contribution is generally addressed either through its cooperation programmes or by the opening of private clinics by Chinese ‘doctors’. In Yaoundé and Douala, some private practices have been opened and various works have highlighted their role in the dissemination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Cameroon. Yet the craze for these structures did not last long. Today, while signs of their existence are still visible, many of these firms are closed. China's influence in the health field is, however, far from negligible, but it is taking place in unexpected areas. The circulation of goods and knowledge from China leaves more room for local reappropriation. Indeed, some Cameroonian traditional healers include knowledge from China in their daily practice through the use of ‘machines’ coming from China to ‘purify the body’, to ‘eliminate fat’, to regulate the tension, to ‘stimulate acupuncture points’ or ‘make diagnosis’ (using the quantum analyser or a ‘diagnostic machine’). From direct observations conducted between 2014 and 2021, this article presents the issues at stake for the practice of traditional healers by the modernization of the field through specific therapeutic devices and the quantum analyser coming from China into the health Cameroonian landscape. The paper demonstrates that the performance of the diagnostic machine has less to do with the concrete efficiency of the diagnosis of pathologies than with the dynamics of visibility vis-à-vis patients. The quantum analyser is, therefore, an interesting element revealing the constant process of renewal of medical pluralism in Cameroon, in which China is playing a central role today.

Photobiomodulation enhanced endogenous pain modulation in healthy volunteers

To examine the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) in healthy volunteers using photonic stimulation of acupuncture points on conditioned pain modulation (CPM), temporal summation of pain (TSP), and offset analgesia (OA), which reflect some aspects of endogenous pain modulation. We included 15 men and 15 women (age, 31.5 [27.3–37.0], body mass index, 25.7 [24.4–27.1], Fitzpatrick skin typing, II: 20, III: 8, IV: 2). CPM, TSP, and OA were evaluated after a sham procedure (control session) and after acupuncture point stimulation (LI4 and LI10 on the non-dominant forearm) using linear polarized near-infrared light irradiation (LPNILI; wavelengths peaked at approximately 1000 nm, output: 1.4 W/cm2, spot diameter: 10 mm, spot size: 1.02 cm2, maximum temperature: 40.5 °C, pulse width: 1 s, frequency: 0.2 Hz) (PBM session). Differences in CPM, TSP, and OA between the two sessions were evaluated by the paired t-test and Fisher’s exact test (statistical significance: p < 0.05). Values indicate median [interquartile range]. LPNILI significantly increased CPM in all participants (control session: 12.1 [−4.5–37.4], PBM session: 23.9 [8.3–44.8], p < 0.05) and women (control session: 16.7 [−3.4–36.6], PBM session: 38.7 [24.6–52.1], p < 0.05). The CPM effect increment was significantly higher in women than in men (p = 0.0253). LPNILI decreased TSP in participants with higher TSP ratios (p = 0.0219) and increased OA in participants with lower OA scores (p = 0.0021). LPNILI enhanced endogenous pain modulation in healthy volunteers, particularly in women, as evaluated using CPM. CPM, TSP, and OA evaluations are potentially useful for discriminating PBM responders from non-responders.

Acupressure as an Adjunctive Treatment to Improve Social Interaction Skills in Autistic Toddlers in Jombang Regency, Indonesia

Acupressure is one of physiotherapy by putting pressure and stimulating acupuncture points (acu points) on the body which aims to stimulate or stimula therapeutic points using the fingers. Baihui point (GV 20) is located on the head, the point of intersection of the median line of the head and the line connecting the apex of the left and right auricles. This point is innervation of the ophthalmic branch n. trigeminal and branch n. occipital. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of giving acupressure with 2 fingers tap at the Baihui point on autistic toddlers who do therapy at BundaQu Holistic Care &amp; SPA. As well as knowing that the implementation of this therapy can improve the quality of social skills in autistic children. The sampling technique in this study is incidental sampling technique. This study applied a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. A quantitative approach is applied to determine whether there is a correlation or influence of the independent variable on the dependent variable. this study applied a Single Case Experimental Design with the A-B-Follow up paradigm. Based on statistical tests, the results obtained p value of 0.00 in autistic toddlers who received treatment. It means that there is an effect of pressurizing two fingers 10 times with an interval of 12 times per day on the Baihui point (GV 20). Furthermore, it can also have an effect on the ability of social interaction in the form of eye contact, mastery of emotional control and a decrease in repetitive behavior in toddlers with autism symptoms. In this case, it is necessary to have the parent’s active role, support willingness, motivation and patience in carrying out routine activities. In general, in social life, a child is confronted with values that exist in society, which are called social values. It is hoped that after a significant influence on the abilities and social skills of autistic toddlers, they can gradually improve their social quality.

Electroacupuncture of the trigeminal nerve causes N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors to mediate blood-brain barrier opening and induces neuronal excitatory changes.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is an important structure for maintaining environmental stability in the central nervous system (CNS). Our previous study showed that specific parameters of electroacupuncture (EA) at the head points Shuigou (GV26) and Baihui (GV20) can open the BBB; however, the mechanism by which stimulation of body surface acupuncture points on the head results in peripheral stimulation and affects the status of the central BBB and the neuronal excitatory changes has not been elucidated. We used laser spectroscopy, the In Vivo Imaging System (IVIS), immunofluorescence and immunoblotting to verified the role of the trigeminal nerve in BBB opening during EA, and we applied the central N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors blocker MK-801 to verify the mediating role of NMDA receptors in EA-induced BBB opening. Next, electroencephalogram (EEG) and in vivo calcium imaging techniques were applied to verify the possible electrical patterns of BBB opening promoted by different intensities of EA stimulation. The results showed that the trigeminal nerve plays an important role in the alteration of BBB permeability promoted by EA stimulation of the head acupoints. Brain NMDA receptors play a mediating role in promoting BBB permeability during EA of the trigeminal nerve, which may affect the expression of the TJ protein occludin, and thus alter BBB permeability. The analysis of the electrical mechanism showed that there was no significant change in the rhythm of local field potentials (LFP) in different brain regions across frequency bands immediately after EA of the trigeminal nerve at different intensities. However, the local primary somatosensory (S1BF) area corresponding to the trigeminal nerve showed a transient reduction in the delta rhythm of LFP with no change in the high-frequency band, and the action potential (spike) with short inter spike interval (ISI) varied with EA intensity. Meanwhile, EA of the trigeminal nerve resulted in rhythmic changes in calcium waves in the S1BF region, which were influenced by different EA intensities. This study provides a research perspective and a technical approach to further explore the mechanism of EA-induced BBB opening and its potential clinical applications.

The effectiveness of acupuncture point stimulation for the prevention of postoperative sore throat: A meta-analysis.

Enhanced recovery pathways can be further improved for postoperative sore throat (POST) that occurs after surgery under general anesthesia. Medications have shown some effectiveness in preventing POST, but acupuncture or related techniques with better safety and lower cost can be used as an alternative or adjuvant therapy to treat perioperative symptoms by stimulating acupuncture point (acupoint). Therefore, we aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to assess whether acupoint stimulation helps patients prevent POST in adults undergoing tracheal intubation for general anesthesia. Publications in PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register, ScienceDirect, and ClinicalTrial.gov were surveyed from January 2000 through August 2020. Studies that compared interventions between true acupoint stimulation and no or sham acupoint stimulation were included. The primary outcomes were the incidence and severity of POST at 24h. Four randomized control trials and 1 comparative study involving 1478 participants were included. Compared with the no or sham acupoint stimulation, the true acupoint stimulation was associated with a reduced incidence (risk ratio, 0.32; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.18-0.55; P < .001) and decreased severity (standardized mean difference, -2.79; 95% CI, -4.59 to - 0.99; P = .002) of POST. There were no significant adverse events related to acupoint stimulation. The finding for POST was assured by subgroup, sensitivity, and trial sequential analyses. Acupoint stimulation may reduce the occurrence of POST. It can be considered as one of nonpharmacological methods to prevent POST in enhanced recovery pathways. Further rigorous studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of acupoint stimulation.

Effect of Needle and Extracorporeal Shockwave Stimulation of Acupuncture Points on Equine Chronic Multilimb Lameness Using a Single-Formula Approach

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to compare effects with conventional (needle and electroacupuncture, NAP) and shockwave stimulation of acupuncture points (SAP) on chronic multilimb lameness in horses. Study Design Randomized crossover block design; ten mature Standardbred mares with multilimb lameness (&lt; 4/10) underwent 3-weekly point stimulations (NAP/SAP) selected on the basis of their uniform applicability. Groups were reversed following a washout period (9 weeks). Lameness at the trot was video recorded and quantified objectively using an inertial sensor-based system during a 4-week pre- and post-treatment period. Blinded expert review of recordings resulted in subjective qualitative (better, same, or worse) and quantitative outcome measures (0–10 lameness grade). Mixed effect repeated measures analyses were performed on objective quantitative gait parameters specific to fore (Vector sum [VSHead]) and hindlimb lameness (average differences in minimum [DIFFMINPelvis] and maximum pelvic height [DIFFMAXPelvis]) Qualitative data were assessed in non-parametric tests. Results SAP had no effect on forelimb but improved hindlimb lameness (DIFFMINPelvis; p &lt; 0.001). NAP was associated with deterioration of forelimb lameness (VSHead, p &lt; 0.001) and had no effect on hindlimb lameness. VSHead data differed between modalities when accounting for the time of observation (interaction effect; p = 0.002). For other quantitative gait parameters, a difference between modalities was not observed. SAP was associated with greater animal comfort post-treatment compared with pre-treatment assessments (p = 0.036). Typically, improvement occurred by one and deterioration by two lameness grades. Conclusion SAP and NAP were not associated with the same treatment outcome. SAP slightly improved but did not alleviate all lameness. Given the non-invasive nature of SAP, this method may have potential in the management of chronic multilimb lameness.

Uses of Energy Psychology Following Catastrophic Events.

Energy psychology, as most widely practiced, integrates the manual stimulation of acupuncture points with imaginal exposure, cognitive restructuring, and other evidence-based psychotherapeutic procedures. Efficacy for energy psychology protocols has been established in more than 120 clinical trials, with meta-analyses showing strong effect sizes for PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The approach has been applied in the wake of natural and human-made disasters in more than 30 countries. Four tiers of energy psychology interventions following the establishment of safety, trust, and rapport are described, including (1) immediate relief/stabilization, (2) reducing limbic arousal to trauma-based triggers, (3) overcoming complex psychological difficulties, and (4) promoting optimal functioning. The first tier is most pertinent in psychological first aid immediately following a disaster, with the subsequent tiers progressively being introduced over time with complex stress reactions and chronic disorders. Advantages of adding the stimulation of acupuncture points to a conventional exposure approach are identified, and challenges around cultural sensitivities and unintended effects are discussed. After establishing a framework for introducing energy psychology in disaster relief efforts, reports from a sampling of settings are presented, based on interviews with this paper’s author. These include accounts of relief work with survivors of mass shootings, genocide, ethnic warfare, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Hundreds of other reports from the field show a pattern of strong outcomes following the use of energy psychology in the days or weeks after a disaster and in the subsequent treatment of trauma-based psychological problems. Many of these accounts corroborate one another in terms of rapid relief and long-term benefits. Finally, examples of more efficient delivery methods utilizing large groups, lay counselors, digital technology, and cultivating community resilience are presented.