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Numerous patients visit Korean medical institutions for low back pain. Various acupuncture points have been suggested to treat low back pain; however, selecting the appropriate acupuncture points is challenging because their individual importance is unknown. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of different acupuncture points in the treatment of low back pain. We reviewed 14 classical literatures that recorded acupuncture prescription for low back pain. We investigated the frequency of acupuncture point usage, as well as their meridians, dermatomes, and combinations. Only BL, GV, and GB were used as local acupuncture points. The BL was the most frequently used acupuncture point in all dynasties. Over time, the use of distal rather than local acupuncture points increased. The distal acupuncture points that corresponded to the L4–S1 dermatome were most used. The most frequently used acupuncture points were BL23, BL40, BL60, GV26, GB34, and ST36. When low back pain is accompanied by lower extremity symptoms, the frequency of the use of acupuncture points at the L4, L5, and S1 levels on the dermatome increased, whereas those at the L2 and S3 levels decreased. BL31–BL34, BL28–GV02, and GV26–BL40 were mainly used in combination.

Objective To investigate the application effect of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) combined with propofol in painless gastrointestinal endoscopy. Methods A total of 105 patients who underwent gastrointestinal endoscopy were randomly divided into propofol+fentanyl group (P+F group), propofol+TEAS group (P+T group), and propofol+placebo-TEAS group (P+P group), with 35 patients in each group. All patients were induced to deep sedation by the anesthesiologist using propofol before gastroscopy; the patients in the P+F group were given intravenously injected fentanyl 50 μg before gastroscopy, those in the P+T group received placement of electrodes at the acupoints at 30 minutes before examination and were given electrical stimulation till the end of the examination, and those in the P+P group received placement of electrodes at the acupoints alone without electrical stimulation. The patients were recorded in terms of pain score and the amount of propofol used du-ring examination, the time to recovery from anesthesia after examination, and the incidence rate of adverse reactions during or after examination, as well as the degree of satisfaction among patients and physicians. Results Compared with the P+P group, the P+F and P+T groups had a significant reduction in pain score (H=23.16,P0.05), while the P+F group had significantly higher degrees of vertigo, nausea, and vomiting than the other two groups (H=40.97-44.79,P

Acupuncture involves stimulating points with lower electrical impedance (EI). Understanding EI changes with needle and exercise stimuli can elucidate acupuncture mechanisms. This study included 60 subjects, divided into control (C) and acupuncture (A) groups. EI was assessed at four points: 0 (before procedures), I (after handgrip protocol [HGP]), II (after 20 minutes of rest), and III (after 20 minutes of rest in C or stimulation in A, followed by HGP in both groups). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. In the A group, EI was significantly reduced at HT3, shown by increased % microampere when comparing assessments I, II, and III with assessment 0 (p < 0.005). Intergroup comparisons revealed a reduced % microampere when comparing assessments II (p < 0.02) and III (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, the stimulation of an acupoint over a motor nerve branch changes the EI.

Background: Urinary retention is a postoperative problem that causes pain and discomfort for patients, even when catheters are used. The potential role of magnetic therapy in treating postoperative urinary retention through acupuncture points remains uncertain. This research aims to assess the impact of magnetic therapy on urinary retention in patients undergoing surgery. Materials and Methods: This single-blind clinical trial study was conducted in a recovery department within an operating room and subsequently in the Surgery Department of Amin Hospital. The study took place in Isfahan in 2022, with a sample of 64 patients selected using a simple random sampling method and divided equally into two groups. In the intervention group, magnet plates were applied, while the control group received iron plates at seven specific points for duration of 35 ± 5 minutes. Demographic information, the type of urinary excretion, the duration of urinary retention, and the volume of excreted urine were recorded using a researcher-made checklist for both intervention and control groups. These data were compared and subjected to descriptive and analytical statistical analysis. Results: Among the participants (N = 64), the majority were male (N = 37, 57.80%), and the mean age was 40.17 years. The Chi-square analysis revealed no significant difference between the intervention and control groups in terms of the type of urinary excretion (p = 0.106). However, the Mann–Whitney U-test demonstrated significant difference between the two groups regarding the duration required to eliminate urinary retention and the volume of excreted urine (F2,41 = 62 and F1,76 = 62; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The use of a novel approach involving magnetic therapy applied to acupuncture and reflexology points has been shown to reduce the time required for the first urination and increase the volume of urine in post-surgery patients.

Importance: Understanding acupuncture point microenvironments is vital for optimizing treatment efficacy. Evaluating changes in water content at these points can provide further insights into the effects of acupuncture on tissues.Objective: This study aimed to measure tissue dielectric constant (TDC) and assess changes in water content, specifically at stomach 36 (ST36, Zusanli) and spleen 6 (SP6, Sanyinjiao) acupuncture points.Methods : : In a controlled, blinded, randomized trial, 113 healthy volunteers were divided into six groups based on TDC sensor diameters (XS, M, and L): three control groups and three acupuncture groups. They were assessed at three time points: T1, baseline; T2, 20 min post-needle withdrawal; and T3, 40 min post-needle withdrawal. Electrical impedance (EI) was also analyzed. Significance level was set at p < 0.001.Results : : TDC at ST36 and SP6 significantly decreased with the XS probe at T2 and T3 compared with that at T1 (F8, 452: 54.61). TDC did not significantly vary between T2 and T3 with M and L probes. EI data indicated that the current passage increased in the SP (F2, 226: 39.32) and ST (F2, 226: 37.32) groups during T2 and T3 compared with that during T1 within their respective groups and controls.Conclusion : s and Relevance: This study demonstrated the efficacy of TDC measurements in detecting water content fluctuations at acupuncture points and their responses to needles. TDC measurements, which were validated against EI, provide valuable insights into acupuncture point microenvironments and thus help optimize treatments.

BackgroundThe existing body of research concerning the impact of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) on early postoperative recovery is marked by a lack of consensus. This meta-analysis, encompassing a systematic review of randomised controlled trials, seeks to critically assess the efficacy of TEAS in relation to awakening from general anaesthesia in the postoperative period.MethodsThe inclusion criteria for this study were peer-reviewed randomised controlled trials that evaluated the influence of TEAS on the process of regaining consciousness following general anaesthesia. A comprehensive search was conducted across several reputable databases, including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the VIP Database, the SinoMed Database, and the WANFANG Medical Database. The search was not limited by date, extending from the inception of each database up to December 2023. The methodological quality and risk of bias within the included studies were appraised in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions, version 5.1, and its associated tool for assessing risk of bias.ResultsThe analysis encompassed 29 studies involving a total of 2,125 patients. Participants in the TEAS group demonstrated a significantly shorter duration to achieve eye-opening [mean difference (MD), −3.16 min; 95% confidence interval (CI), −3.93 to −2.39], endotracheal extubation (MD, −4.28 min; 95% CI, −4.79 to −3.76), and discharge from the post-anaesthesia care unit (MD, −8.04 min; 95% CI, −9.48 to −6.61) when compared to the control group receiving no or sham stimulation. Additionally, the TEAS group exhibited markedly reduced mean arterial blood pressure (MD, −9.00 mmHg; 95% CI, −10.69 to −7.32), heart rate (MD, −7.62 beats/min; 95% CI, −9.02 to −6.22), and plasma concentrations of epinephrine (standardised MD, −0.81; 95% CI, −1.04 to −0.58), norepinephrine (MD, −47.67 pg/ml; 95% CI, −62.88 to −32.46), and cortisol (MD, −110.92 nmol/L; 95% CI, −131.28 to −90.56) at the time of extubation. Furthermore, the incidence of adverse effects, including agitation and coughing, was considerably lower in the TEAS group relative to the control group (odds ratio, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.22–0.40).ConclusionThe findings of this study indicate that TEAS may hold promise in facilitating the return of consciousness, reducing the interval to awakening post-general anaesthesia, and enhancing the awakening process to be more tranquil and secure with a diminished likelihood of adverse events. However, caution must be exercised in interpreting these results due to the notable publication and geographical biases present among the studies under review. There is an imperative for further high-quality, low-bias research to substantiate these observations.Systematic review registrationThe review protocol was registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42022382017).

There is no clear evidence that acupuncture points and meridians are separate organs or specific tissues. However, in traditional Chinese medicine, the mechanism of acupuncture action is associated with the vital energy concept. To identify the body’s energy source and the material basis of its transmission, transformation, and use, it is necessary to consider it as an energy-generating object, with all its components. By abstracting from the body’s usual structural view, we found that it is an autonomous energy-generating object. The human body generates energy through the lungs and digestive tract, which are electrochemical generator organs. Because the generated energy must be transferred to the consumer, the body has wire and transformer analogs. It bears an obvious resemblance with an electronic circuit, where cellular structures, tissues, and their combinations act as electrical and radioelements. The heart, brain, and muscles, which have well-known electrical parameters, as well as acupuncture points, offer information about the state of these electronic circuits. This article describes an extra-organ approach for systematizing body structures. It also attempts to represent the meridians and acupuncture points system as integral electro-radioelements, as well as the local circuit components of the whole body’s electronic scheme.

Background. Modern scientific research has shown that the inherent regulatory system of the body is a neuro-endocrine-immune (NEI) network. A researcher proposed a hypothesis, that the bidirectional positive regulatory role of acupuncture was achieved by NEI network. The purpose of this study is to find out relationships between electrical conductivity (EC) of acupuncture points (AP) and adaptation hormones one of the elements of NEI network. Materials and methods. The object of observation were 10 women (32-76 years) and 10 men (37-67 years) examined twice with a weekly interval. The volunteers were considered practically healthy, but with maladaptation. We recorded EC in AP Pg(ND), TR(X) and MC(AVL) (by complex “Medissa”) as well as serum Cortisol, Aldosterone, Testosterone, Triiodothyronine, Calcitonin and PTH (by the ELISA). For statistical analysis used the software package "Statistica 6.4". Results. The multiple linear regression analysis revealed the closest relationship with AP Testosterone raw level (R=0,485). Testosterone level, normalized by sex and age, was associated with AP to the same extent (R=0,439), but positive correlations were transformed into negative ones. Calcitonin level was also moderately positively correlated with AP (R=0,441). PTH was significantly correlated only with TR(X) lateralization (r=-0,363; p=0,022) and Triiodothyronine only with MC(AVL) lateralization (r=0,315; p=0,048). The connections of Aldosterone with AP lateralization turned out to be insignificant, and from the side of Cortisol, they were negligible at all. Despite moderate pairwise correlations, the canonical correlation between the levels of adaptation Hormones, on the one hand, and EC of AP and their lateralization, on the other hand, turned out to be quite strong (R=0,856). Conclusion. Electrical conductivity of AP and their lateralization is 73% determined by the constellation of adaptation hormones, which are an important component of the NEI network. In the next message, we will demonstrate the existence of connections between AP and parameters of EEG and heart rate variability as well as Immunity.

Background. With this article, we start the project "Functional relationships between the parameters of acupuncture points and the neuro-endocrine-immune network", thereby joining the construction of a bridge between the Western and Eastern paradigms of medicine. Materials and methods. The object of observation were 10 women (32-76 years) and 10 men (37-67 years) examined twice with a weekly interval. The volunteers were considered practically healthy, but the initial testing revealed deviations from the norm in a number of parameters of the neuro-endocrine-immune (NEI) network as a manifestation of maladaptation. We recorded electrical conductivity in acupuncture points (AP) Pg(ND), TR(X) and MC(AVL) as well as parameters of NEI network, gas discharge visualization (GDV) and metabolism. Results. The preliminary analysis of the parameters revealed in the female SO drastic deviations from both the reference and the average for the sample, the levels of electrical conductivity of three pairs of AP - that is, the so-called "falling values", which are usually removed from the subsequent analysis as artifacts. However, we found the same drastic or significant deviations of a number of other parameters of GDV, EEG, HRV, adaptation hormones, immunity and metabolism in this patient. Therefore, the registered drastic decrease in electrical conductivity of AP is by no means an artifact, but reflects the peculiarities of the NEI network, GDV and metabolism of the patient's body during the first examination. It is significant that upon re-examination, the deviations of the parameters significantly or completely approached the range of the average for the sample ± SD or the norm ± SD. Conclusion. The above gives us a reason to initiate a broad discussion of the problem of "falling variables" as carriers of unique information that is ignored and lost.

The development of anti-pain technologies in the complex treatment of pain syndromes is one of the most urgent tasks of modern medicine. We undertook a placebo-controlled experimental study of the therapeutic potential of low-intensity laser radiation when applied to acupuncture points that are directly related to the autonomic nervous system. The adaptation effect of puncture photobiomodulation on the induction of stress-mediated autonomic reactions, oxidative metabolism and microcirculation in animals during the acute phase of pain stress was revealed. The data obtained are of interest for use in the complex rehabilitation of patients with pain syndromes.

Xuesong Wang,1,&ast; Guang Zuo,1,&ast; Jun Liu,1,2 Juncha Zhang,1,2 Xuliang Shi,1,2 Xisheng Fan,1,2 Xuxin Li,1 Yuanbo Gao,1 Hao Chen,1 Cun-Zhi Liu,3 Yanfen She1,2 1School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China; 2Hebei International Joint Research Center for Dominant Diseases in Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, People’s Republic of China; 3School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jun Liu; Yanfen She, School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, No. 3 Xingyuan Road, Luquan Districtt, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, 050200, People’s Republic of China, Email 822053583@qq.com; sheyanfen@163.comObjective: Dysmenorrhea is a common clinical condition and some studies shown that the skin temperature of some acupoints changes in primary dysmenorrhea (PD) patients. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in skin temperature at specific acupoints in PD patients and healthy subjects.Methods: The literature for assessing skin temperature at acupoints in PD patients and healthy subjects was searched in eight databases. The literatures obtained from the search was independently screened by two authors, and the quality of the included articles was evaluated using the consensus checklist of the Thermographic Imaging in Sports and Exercise Medicine (TISEM) and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) scale. The skin temperature of the relevant acupoints or the difference between the left and right acupoints of the same name was used as the outcome during any period of menstruation. Finally, the meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4.1 software to evaluate the changes in skin temperature in the related acupoints.Results: Seven eligible studies were included, which included 328 patients with PD and 279 healthy subjects. The results of the meta-analysis revealed a significant difference in skin temperature around the Sanyinjiao (SP6)(MD: 0.04, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.08), Xuehai (SP 10)(MD: − 0.07, 95% CI:-0.11, − 0.02) and Taixi (KI 3)(MD: 0.06, 95% CI:0.01, 0.11) acupoints between PD and healthy subjects. PD patients also showed a difference in skin temperature at the Taixi (KI 3)(MD: 0.14, 95% CI:0.04, 0.24), Shuiquan (KI 5)(MD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03,0.19), Taichong (LR 3)(MD: − 0.10, 95% CI: − 0.19,-0.01), Diji (SP 8)(MD: − 0.09, 95% CI: − 0.16, − 0.01), and Xuehai (SP 10)(MD: − 0.14, 95% CI: − 0.23, − 0.06) acupoint areas at different times of menstruation compared to that of healthy subjects, as revealed by the subgroup analysis.Conclusion: Primary dysmenorrhea patients showed some differences in the skin temperature of the special acupoints are as Sanyinjiao (SP6), Diji (SP 8), Xuehai (SP 10), Shuiquan (KI 5), Taichong (LR 3), and Taixi (KI 3) compared with healthy subjects.Registration Number: CRD42022381387.Keywords: acupuncture points, acupoints, acupoint sensitization, skin temperature, thermography, meta-analysis, systematic review

AIM. To analyze of recently reported domestic and foreign studies on the influence of РhP on the results of rehabilitation of elderly patients after total endoprosthetics operations. MATERIAL AND METHODS. The review examines issues related to the pathogenetic aspects of punctural effects on the body, the peculiarities of using low-intensity physical factors of electromagnetic nature as a therapeutic stimulus when exposed to acupuncture points based on the results of clinical and experimental studies on cell cultures and animals published in Faberlink, Pubmed. The mechanisms of the influence of low-intensity laser, optical and extremely high frequency radiation on the adaptive reactions of the body are discussed. The results of experimental studies on the choice of optimal modes and parameters of low-intensity electromagnetic radiationof extremely high frequency are considered for the purpose of application in complex rehabilitation programs. The results of reflexodiagnosticsin the process of restoring vegetative disorders of the body as predictors of adaptive potential in the process of predicting the direction and volume of rehabilitation load, as well as the outcomes of rehabilitation treatment are evaluated. CONCLUSION. Further studies on the mechanisms of action and rehabilitation potential of low-intensity EMR in different ranges are needed to expand the clinical application of PhP techniques.

Background : Nausea and vomiting are frequent complications of anesthesia in the postoperative period. Acupuncture at the pericardium point 6 (PC6) is known to be effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Objectives: The objective of the present study is to investigate the effects of acupuncture performed at the PC6 point in the prevention of PONV in women undergoing elective open hysterectomy under general inhalational anesthesia and to assess its association with plasma serotonin levels. Methods : 97 patients undergoing elective open hysterectomy were randomly divided into two groups: acupuncture group (bilateral acupuncture at PC6, n = 49), and a control group (no acupuncture, n = 48). All patients prophylactically received ondansetron and dexamethasone and, as rescue medication, metoclopramide in case of occurrence of PONV. The primary outcome evaluated was occurrence of nausea and vomiting within 24 hours after surgery. Serotonin plasma levels were measured before and after acupuncture prior to anesthesia induction. For the control group, the repeat measurement was performed 30 minutes after admission to the preoperative unit. Results : Acupuncture at PC6 significantly reduced the incidence of nausea (29.2% vs. 6.1%; p > 0.003), and the need of rescue medication (metoclopramide) (33.3% vs. 10.2%; p > 0.006), but not vomiting (4.2 vs. 4.1; p > 0.98). The plasma serotonin levels between control and acupuncture groups did not differ. Conclusion : This study shows that acupuncture at PC6 resulted in a lower incidence of postoperative nausea in patients undergoing hysterectomy.

Background So far there is no confidence in the basics of acupoint/meridian phenomena, specifically in spatial and temporal electrical manifestations in the skin. Methods Using the skin electrodynamic introscopy, the skin areas of 32 × 64 mm2 were monitored for spectral electrical impedance landscape with spatial resolution of 1 mm, at 2 kHz and 1 MHz frequencies. The detailed baseline and 2D test-induced 2 kHz-impedance phase dynamics and the 4-parameter time plots of dozens of individual points in the St32–34 regions were examined in a healthy participant and a patient with mild gastritis. Non-thermal stimuli were used: (1) (for the sick subject), microwaves and ultraviolet radiation applied alternately from opposite directions of the meridian; and (2) (for the healthy one) microwaves to St17, and cathodic/anodic stimulation of the outermost St45, alternately. Results In both cases, the following phenomena have been observed: emergence of in-phase and/or antiphase coherent structures, exceeding the acupoint conditional size of 1 cm; collective movement along the meridian; reversible with a reversed stimulus; counter-directional dynamics of both whole structures and adjacent points; local abnormalities in sensitivity and dynamics of the 1 MHz and 2 kHz parameters indicating existence of different waveguide paths. Conclusion It is assumed that these findings necessitate reconsideration of some basic methodological issues regarding neurogenic/acupuncture points as spatial and temporal phenomena; this requires development of an appropriate approach for identifying the acuzones patterns. These findings may be used for developing new approaches to personalized/controlled therapy/treatment.

Although acupuncture points and myofascial trigger points (TPs) are based in different medical fields, the two points share important attributes. We explored the relationship between acupuncture points and TPs based on their characteristics and the results of previous studies. We outlined the relationship between acupuncture points and TPs by examining their similarities and differences. Among the acupuncture point subgroups, TPs mostly corresponded to Ashi points. Based on the common features of TPs and Ashi points, we suggest that TPs are more closely related to Ashi points than to other acupoints. However, TPs also share some features, such as pain indication and location, with classical acupuncture points (CA) and extra acupuncture points (EA), which makes it difficult to elucidate their relationship with other subgroups. Therefore, we suggest to understand the relationship of CAs, EAs, Ashi points, and TPs. In this report, we concluded that concerning muscular pain symptoms Ashi points and TPs are indistinguishable.

Abstract Background Electroacupuncture (EA) alleviates chronic pain and acute postoperative pain after several surgical procedures. However, whether EA facilitates postoperative functional recovery after arthroscopic surgery has yet to be determined. This study investigated the short-term effect of EA on a rehabilitation course after arthroscopic triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) repair. Methods Forty-two patients undergoing arthroscopic TFCC repair were randomised to an EA group (n = 19) or control group (n = 23). In the EA group, patients received EA treatment and standard active rehabilitation for 4 weeks. In the control group, patients received standard active rehabilitation for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment and at the follow-up visit 4 weeks after the treatment, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, wrist range of motion (ROM), handgrip strength, and key pinch strength were collected and analysed. Results The EA group improved significantly than the control group in terms of DASH scores, all wrist motion arcs, and key pinch strength (P < 0.05) at the end of the 4-week treatment and the follow-up visit another 4 weeks later. Conclusion Patients treated with 4 weeks of EA after the arthroscopic TFCC repair had better wrist ROM and DASH scores than patients of control group

Background: This study aimed to investigate the effect of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) on the severity of fatigue among women with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Materials and Methods: This was a single-blind, randomized controlled trial study conducted on 50 women with MS in Isfahan, Iran. Sampling was performed using simple sampling method, then the participants were randomly divided into two groups of case and sham using the minimization method. The EFT intervention was performed on the case group, 2 sessions per week for a 4-weeks period. In the sham group, with the same psychological part of the EFT technique like case group, mild tapping was applied on false points for the same period of time. Fatigue severity score was obtained using the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) before and immediately and 4 weeks after the intervention in the two groups. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: The results of the independent t-test indicated that the mean (SD) score of fatigue severity before the intervention was not significantly different between the case and sham groups 5.48 (0.75) and (5.39 (0.71) with (p = 0.67). However, this difference was significant immediately [(3.05 (0.89) and 5.15 (0.94)] and 4 weeks after the intervention 3.10 (0.81) and 5.59 (0.57) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: It seems that EFT is effective in diminishing fatigue among patients with MS and is recommended as a convenient and safe non-medicament strategy for self-management of fatigue among these patients, and can be used at the bedside by nurses.

Cupping therapy belongs to methods of natural medicine. Cups have been used since ancient times, with the first mentions of cups coming from excavations in Mesopotamia dating to around 3300 BC. The primary mechanism of cup action is related to blood function, known as autohemotherapy. The aim of this work was to present the different types of medical cups used today, techniques for placing them on the skin and their mechanisms of action for various medical conditions as well as in regenerative sports medicine and cosmetology. Methods of placing cups on the skin depend on the type of cup used, the purpose for which they are being used for and the experience level of the therapist. Cupping is a safe form of therapy support, provided that the treatments are performed according to a strictly established procedure and take into account contraindications. This work is a review based on a query of the literature on the subject, as well as the experience and results of research studies conducted by the authors. An important component of the work involves the demonstration of the use of cups as part of physiotherapeutic procedures and regimens using manual therapy (mobilization) and acupuncture points. The discussion presents a review of publications that highlight the therapeutic effects of cup use for various pathological conditions. The therapeutic effects of medical cups largely depend on several factors, mainly vacuum pressure, but also skin temperature under the cup and other forms of energy/indicators, which depend on the specific elements or components involved in the cupping procedure (i.e. heat, acupuncture needles).

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Background. Back in 1990, YuP Limansky hypothesized acupuncture points (AP) as polymodal receptors of the ecoceptive sensitivity system. In the process of hypothesis development in 2003 an existence of separate functional system of regulation of electromagnetic balance of organism has been substantiated and a working conception of light therapy has been formulated. In line with this hypothesis, we set out to analyze the relationships between the disturbances of the geomagnetic field (Ap-index) and the electrical conductivity of a number of AP, on the one hand, and the parameters of the neuroendocrine-immune complex in patients with its dysfunction, on the other. Material and methods. The object of observation were 21 men (24-63 y) and 20 women (30-72 y) with neuroendocrine-immune complex dysfunction. Each patient was tested twice with an interval of 4 days. Retrospectively we recorded the geomagnetic Ap-Index on the day of testing and during the previous 7 days, using resource https://www.spaceweatherlive.com/. Recorded the electrical conductivity of 9 pairs of AP, electroencephalogram (EEG) and heart rate variability (HRV) parameters, determined the plasma level of cortisol, triiodothyronine and testosterone, the content of lymphocytes expressing CD3, CD4, CD25, CD8, CD22 and CD56 receptors, the serum level of circulating immune complexes, immunoglobulins classes M, G, A as well as C-reactive protein, IL-1β and IL-6. The state of phagocytic function of neutrophils estimated by microbial count and phagocytic and killing indices against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Results. During the week, the average level of Ap-index ranged from 7 to 13 nT. Maximum coefficients of multiple correlation with APs parameters were detected for Ap-index on 6 day before (R=0,552) and on the day of testing (R=0,470), with EEG parameters on the eve of registration (R=0,708) and on 6 day before its (R=0,685), with immunity parameters on the eve of blood sampling (R=0,768) and on 5 day before its (R=0,758), with HRV&Hormonal parameters on 2 (R=0,506) and 7 (R=0,403) days before testing. The canonical correlation between Ap-indices for 7 days before and on the day of testing, and the parameters APs is 0,661; EEG parameters is 0,886; HRV&Hormonal parameters is 0,766 and immunity parameters is 0,921. APs parameter are closely related to the EEG (R=0,997) and HRV&Hormonal parameters (R=0,740). In turn, the immune parameters are closely related to the EEG (R=0,944) and HRV&Hormonal parameters (R=0,714). Conclusion. Disturbances of the geomagnetic field (Ap-index) causes a significant immediate modulating effect on the parameters of neuroendocrine-immune complex, apparently through acupuncture points as polymodal receptors of the ecoceptive sensitivity system.

Background. Previously we have been shown that exist strong canonical correlation between parameters of GDV and principal neuroendocrine factors of adaptation as well as parameters of leukocytogram, immunity and phagocytosis. This study, conducted on a much expanded contingent, will analyze the relationships between GDV parameters, on the one hand, and the parameters of acupuncture points (APs), EEG, HRV and adaptation hormones, on the other. Material and Methods. We observed twice 31 women and 29 men aged 26-76 years with dysfunction of neuroendocrine-immune complex. In the morning in basal conditions at first registered kirlianogram by the method of GDV by the device “GDV Chamber” (“Biotechprogress”, SPb, RF). Than we registered simultaneously EEG and HRV and recorded electrical conductivity of three pairs of Aps. Finally, a blood sample was taken to determine the plasma levels of the main hormones of adaptation: cortisol, testosterone and triiodothyronine. Results processed by method of canonical analysis, using the software package “Statistica 64”. Results. The coefficient of canonical correlation between the electrical conductivity of APs and gas-discharge image (GDI) parameters is 0,635; between APs and virtual Chakras parameters – 0,614; instead, between APs and GDV parameters as a whole – 0,707. The autonomic-endocrine constellation is somewhat more strongly associated with GDI parameters than with virtual Chakras parameters (0,769 vs 0,712). Additional inclusion of EEG parameters in the neuroendocrine set increases the strength of the canonical correlation to 0,869. Conclusion. The above data, taken together with the previous ones, state that between parameters of neuroendocrine-immune complex and GDV exist strong canonical correlation suggesting suitability of the latter method.

Background. Recently, on the example of two cohort of patients, we found that disturbances of the geomagnetic field cause a significant immediate modulating effect on the level of immune parameters in the blood. The data available in the literature give grounds for assumptions about the direct effect of disturbances of the geomagnetic field on immunocytes, and indirectly, through immunotropic neurotransmitters and hormones. Our hypothesis is as follows. Disturbances of the geomagnetic field are perceived by acupuncture points (APs). The information obtained is transmitted to neurons and endocrinocytes, the mediators of which, in turn, affect immunocytes. The purpose of this study is to test this hypothesis. Methods. The object of observation were 21 men (24-63 y) and 20 women (30-72 y) with neuroendocrine-immune complex dysfunction. Each patient was tested twice with an interval of 4 days. We recorded the ongoing electroencephalogram (EEG). Retrospectively we recorded the geomagnetic Ap-Index on the day of testing and during the previous 7 days, using resource https://www.spaceweatherlive.com/. Results. The canonical correlation between Ap-indices for 7 days before and on the day of testing, and EEG parameters is 0,886; immunity parameters is 0,921. In turn, the immune parameters are closely related to the EEG parameters (R=0,944). Conclusion. Disturbances of the geomagnetic field (Ap-index) causes a significant immediate modulating effect on the parameters of immunity as well as EEG, apparently through acupuncture points as polymodal receptors of the ecoceptive sensitivity system.

Background This study was designed to evaluate the clinical safety of Bee Venom (BV) pharmacopuncture at craniofacial acupuncture points. Methods This was a retrospective study of 108 patients diagnosed with peripheral facial paralysis, trigeminal neuralgia, or facial spasm who were admitted to Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital at Gangdong, from April 1st, 2017 to August 30th, 2017. Patients were allocated into either, Group 1 (the non-allergy group of patients who did not have an allergic reaction to BV) or Group 2, the group who had allergic reactions to BV. To evaluate the clinical safety of BV pharmacopuncture after each treatment, several criteria were used to measure any side effects: outcome, Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events scale, Mueller HL scale, treatment decision after adverse reaction, causality, measures performed for patients with adverse reactions, and efficacy assessment. Results BV pharmacopuncture delivered in 0.1-0.2 mL at a concentration of 1:30,000 at the craniofacial acupuncture points, showed no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics between non-allergy Group 1 and allergy Group 2. Amongst the 108 patients, 11 reported side effects after BV pharmacopuncture treatment. These adverse events included rash (n = 7), pruritus (n = 5), swelling (n = 1), vesicles (n = 1), erythema (n = 1), and hives (n = 1). All side effects resolved without sequelae. Conclusions In this study, BV pharmacopuncture delivered at low doses at the craniofacial acupuncture points, resulted in 10% of patients experiencing non serious side effects suggesting that BV pharmacopuncture was clinically well tolerated.

Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) is a set of changes that affects the muscles of mastication, temporomandibular joint, teeth, and associated periodontal and orofacial structures. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the imbalance of energy (Qi) circulating in the acupuncture meridians is always the primary etiologic cause of any physical manifestation. The aim of this study was to describe the patterns of Qi imbalance in patients with TMD by means of an objective measurement. The clinical study was conducted at the Piracicaba Dental School (FOP/Unicamp), in Piracicaba-SP, Brazil. We evaluated 40 adult volunteers with TMD. The Qi measurement was carried out by the researcher using the Ryodoraku method using 24 points representing the 12 acupuncture meridians: LU9 (Taiyuan), PC7 (Daling), HT7 (Shemen), SI5 (Yanggu), TE4 (Yangchi), LI5 (Yangxi), SP3 (Taibai), LR3 (Taichong), KI3 (Taixi), BL64 (Jinggu), GB40 (Qiuxu), and ST42 (Chongyang). The average total Qi of 40 volunteers (21.7 μA ± 1.5), was below the normal range (40–60 μA) and was classified as deficiency of Qi (empty). The coupled meridians that showed the highest Qi imbalance were the kidney (29.4 μA ± 2.8) and bladder (13.8 μA ± 1). The Qi planes with greatest imbalance were the Shao Yang and Shao Yin. In conclusion, volunteers with TMD presented a pattern of Qi deficiency, and the most prevalent imbalance patterns identified were in the kidney and bladder coupled meridians and in the energetic planes Shao Yin (heart/kidney) and Shao Yang (triple energizer/gall bladder).

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture points (APs) have been emphasized as key elements that generate the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. At the spinal cord or supraspinal level, sensory neurons located in the dorsal horn receive an extensive supply of sensory information from skin and muscle receptors through peripheral afferent nerves. The stimulated skin area that influences the activity of a spinal sensory neuron is known as the peripheral receptive field (RF) of that neuron. By considering that a particular AP location involves the activation of one or various RFs, it can be assumed that several sensory central neurons are the site of convergence of the peripheral input generated by acupuncture stimulation. However, stimulation on nonacupoint sites could also activate skin areas with RFs that have been sensitized, and they could be involved in the generation of nonspecific effects of acupuncture, as seen in clinical practice. From the latter, it is suggested that effective APs, and even nonacupoints, are associated with a particular arrangement of RFs, and their study will be useful for understanding the intrinsic mechanisms of acupuncture and for the development and identification of more efficient sites and modes of acupuncture stimulation to evoke optimal therapeutic actions.

The objective in this study was to develop an integrative review to identify publications on moxibustion and acupuncture to turn fetuses in breech position. The research tool Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome, available through the database of the United States National Library of Medicine, was used to produce a list of articles. The words used for the search were: breech, moxibustion, acupuncture and cephalic. The search was undertaken in March 2016. Twenty-four registers were found, 18 of which were analyzed, seven of them favorable to the use of moxibustion and five unfavorable. Based on the studies developed on the theme, there is evidence that moxibustion is safe and effective to try and “correct” breech presentations, as a tool to complement the care midwifery professionals provide.

The article presents the study of features of formation and remodeling of distraction graft of rabbits' forearm bones at the passage of transosseous elements through acupuncture points. The aim of the work was to develop and perform quantitative estimation of regenerative process at the healing of forearm bone fractures using morphometric researches. We studied morphofunctional changes of graft on different stages of ossification using morphoscopy and morphometry and compared their quantitative characteristics with the ones in intact bone. Used index systems of estimation of regeneration processes at the healing of forearm bone fractures allow to reveal larger degree of statistical significance of obtained results not only in comparison with intact bone but also in over the time of experiment. Using quantitative variables and index estimation of regenerative processes at the healing of forearm bone fractures allow not only to objectify character of their changes but also to predict variability of its value.

During our experimental study, we researched peculiarities of formation and remodeling of distraction forelimb bone graft in rabbits at insertion of transosseous elements through acupuncture points (stimulation of biologically active points). One of the forelimbs was lengthened on 10 mm by Ilizarov method. Using morphoscopy and morphometry we studied morphofunctional changes in the bone regenerate at different stages of experiment during stimulation of biologically active points and compared these quantitative characteristics with parameters of the intact bone.

In experiment the forming and remodeling of distraction regenerate in rabbits Shinshila while conducting transosseous elements through the acupuncture points were studied. One of the rabbit's forearm was stretched by Hizarov's method for 10 mm. Multidetector CT gave the results of mineral density of the bone distraction regenerate. To the 10th day of fixation of bone fragments by the external fixation device the distraction regenerate with a clear zonal structure formed. To the 20th day of fixation in the middle zone there were clear signs of the formation of the medullary canal, that proves the decrease of mineral density to negative values. The prolonged stimulation of acupuncture points by introduced transosseous elements leads to formation of the structure and properties of bone regenerate, which are close by the characteristics to the parameters of the intact bone.

This study evaluated the effect of hour and day of measurement, and of production factors on the impedance values (IVs) at 24 acupuncture points (APs). This is a first step in assessing whether electro-acupuncture can contribute to reduced antibiotic use in dairy farming. The APs studied were left (L) and right (R) points of the bladder (BL) and stomach (ST) meridians. The effect of time was measured in a 3x3 Latin square on six cows in one herd. The effect of production factors was analyzed using 108 cows from three herds for two months. The effect of time excludes BL 14R, 16R, 21R, 22R, 30R, 46-02R, 43-01L and 30L, and ST18 bilaterally for diagnostic use. The contribution of parity, age or lactation period to monthly models of BL21R, 18R and 15R, and ST18R exclude these for diagnostic use. Of the remaining APs, BL19R, BL20R and BL46-02L showed stable IVs and are recommended for reference measurements. APs BL14L, BL16L and BL17L are recommended for diagnostics, and BL 16R, 17R, 18R, 23R, 30R, 15L, 20L, 22L and 29L need further study. Factors contributing to the variation in the IV of several APs were: milk robot, number of inseminations, body condition score, days of the preceding lactation, kg milk and kg milk fat of current and preceding month and preceding year, and milk cell count and urea content.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Duration of labor is an important factor affecting pregnancy outcome and fetal and maternal injury. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on specific acupuncture points for reducing duration of first stage of labor and need to oxytocin augmentation of labor in nulliparous women. METHODS: This double-blind clinical trial study was performed on 64 nulliparous women in active phase of first stage of labor who hospitalized in Razi hospital of Ghaemshar town, Iran. They were randomly divided into two groups (n=32 in each group). Odd numbers and even numbers of patients were allocated by chance to TENS group and TENS placebo group, respectively. According to TENS on four acupuncture points (Hegu [LI-4] and Sanyinjiao [Sp-6]) (n = 32) or the TENS placebo (n = 32), the current output was titrated for each person separately in 4cm dilated cervix. In TENS group, a burst frequency was set to 100 Hz and pulse duration was set to 250 ms and it was periodically used 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. In the control group, the TENS unit was not turned on. Duration of first stage of labor, need to oxytocin augmentation of labor, pain severity and satisfaction in two groups were compared. FINDINGS: Duration of the first stage was 180 minutes in TENS group and 238 minutes in TENS placebo group (p=0.002) and need for oxytocin augmentation of labor was 16(50%) in TENS group and 25(78.1%) in TENS placebo group (p=0.04) that in TENS group was significantly shorter than TENS placebo group. Pain severity was less (p

Background: Indirect moxibustion (IM) has been previously performed between the spinous process while recording skin temperature of the trunk. However, moxibustion is often applied not only to acupuncture points on the back, but also to points located on the limbs. Thus, there is a need to investigate skin temperature (ST) responses following IM applied to the limbs. Methods: In Experiment 1 (Exp 1), subjects were randomly assigned to three groups: the left IM stimulation, right IM stimulation and control groups. In Experiment 2 (Exp 2), the subjects underwent two experimental sessions consisting of a single stimulation of IM or triple stimulations of IM. The IM stimulation was administered to the ST36 acupuncture point. A thermograph was used to obtain the ST on the lower limbs. Results: In Exp 1, the ST of the lower limbs increased in the stimulation groups whereas there was no increase in the non-stimulation group. In Exp 2, no significant response occurred between the single and triple stimulation of IM groups for all observed sites except for the left ankle ST. Conclusions: Lower limb ST increased following IM application to the ST36 point. No difference was observed between the dosage of the stimulation and ST responses.

La radiación láser blanda o de baja energía es de uso terapéutico, pues en ella predomina un efecto fotoquímico que desencadena, a nivel celular, reacciones bioquímicas, bioenergéticas y bioeléctricas, lo que produce en el organismo un efecto al reducir el dolor, el edema y estimular la regeneración tisular, según el depósito energético que se realice. Teniendo en cuenta que la medicina tradicional oriental considera que las enfermedades se producen a consecuencia de un desequilibrio energético en la zona lesionada, y por ende, en el organismo, se trata de lograr estabilidad de la energía estimulando puntos de acupuntura con agujas, moxa, presión digital, etcétera, y en la actualidad con láser (técnica denominada laserpuntura). Presentamos el procedimiento terapéutico para la utilización del láser blando sobre puntos de acupuntura y se hacen recomendaciones con puntos de acción general que apoyan este procedimiento.The soft or low energy laser radiation has a therapeutic use due to its photochemical effect that causes at the cellular level biochemical, bioenergetic and bioelectric reactions, which reduce pain and edema and stimulate tissue regeneration, according to the energetic depot made. Taking into account that the oriental traditional medicine considers that diseases result from an energetic unbalance in the injured zone, and consequently in the organism, energy stability in tried to be achieved by stimulating acupuncture points with needles, moxa, digital pressure, etc., and at present with laser (this technique is called laserpuncture). The therapeutical procedure for the utilization of soft laser on acupuncture points is presented, and recommendations with points of general action supporting this procedure are made.

El efecto bioestimulante de la radiación láser de baja potencia en el tejido óseo, se ha comprobado en cultivos de células y animales de experimentación. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar dicho efecto en la reparación ósea periapical. Se atendieron 40 pacientes que presentaban procesos periapicales crónicos, a los que se les realizó tratamiento pulpo radicular y láser. Para la terapia láser, se útilizó la técnica puntual en el área lesionada y laserpuntura, con depósitos energéticos de 15 J/cm² y 7 J/cm², respectivamente. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran que existió aceleración en los procesos de reparación ósea periapical al utilizar la terapia láser, pues en el 67,5 % de los pacientes atendidos, la misma ocurrió en un período menor a 6 meses después de iniciado el tratamiento.The biostimulant effect of low energy laser radiation on the bone tissue has been tested in cell cultures and experimental animals. The objective of our investigation was to evaluate this effect on the periapical bone reparation. 40 patients received attention and underwent radicular, pulpar, and laser treatment. The acupuncture points technique in the injured area and the laserpuncture were used as part of the laser terapy with energetic depots of 15 J/cm² and 7 J/cm², respectively. The results show that the processes of periapical bone reparation were accelerated, since in 67.5 % of these patients it took place in less than 6 months.

El tratamiento de afecciones médicas basado en la inyección en ciertos puntos acupunturales con productos químicos, mediante la cual la absorción del producto es mucho mayor, se conoce con el nombre de Quimiopuntura o Farmacopuntura. Teniendo en cuenta la alta incidencia de pacientes con condilomas acuminados recidivantes en nuestra consulta y la ausencia de tratamientos que controlen las tasas de recidivas, decidimos evaluar la eficacia de la Quimiopuntura con el empleo de la vitamina B 12 subcutáneo en puntos inmunoestimulantes en Clínica MININT provincial, ya que se conoce la relación de las recidivas de esta afección con el estado inmune de los pacientes afectados. Usando el método de aleatorización simple sin reemplazo, distribuimos a nuestros pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de condilomas acuminados recidivantes en dos grupos (n= 30 para cada grupo). El Grupo A (control) se trató con crioterapia (inmunomodulador tópico) y el Grupo B (experimental) con quimiopuntura. Los pacientes fueron evaluados quincenalmente durante los tratamientos y mensualmente post-tratamiento durante 6 meses. Con esta investigación se demuestra que la quimiopuntura con vitamina B12 es eficaz en el control de la recidiva de los condilomas acuminados.The treatment of medical affections based on the injections in certain acupunctural points with chemical products, through which the absorption of the products is higher, is known by the name of chemopuncture or pharmacopuncture. Taking into account the high incidence of patients with recidivant acuminated condylomas in our consultation and the lack of treatments controlling the recidivant rate, we decided to evaluate the efficacy of chemopuncture using subcutaneous B 12 vitamin in immunostimulant points at the provincial INTMIN clinic, because it is known the relationship of this affection recidivants with the immune status of the affected patients. Using the simple randomized method without replacement, we divided our patients with a clinic diagnosis of recidivant acuminated condylomas in two groups (n= 30 for each group). The Group A (control) patients were treated with cryotherapy (topic immunomodulator) and the Group B (experimental) patients with chemopuncture. Patients were evaluated fortnightly during the treatment and monthly during six months after the treatment. This investigation showed that chemopuncture with B 12 vitamin is efficacious in controlling the recidivism of the acuminated condylomas.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: For most cases, temporomandibular disorders should be treated by a non-invasive, interdisciplinary and integrative process. In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is an excellent tool aiming at treating and healing this disease. This study was a critical literature review to observe the efficacy of traditional Chinese acupuncture to treat muscular temporomandibular disorders and to identify primary acupoints. CONTENTS: Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo and Cochrane databases were queried to identify scientific articles relevant for the study. Articles were selected from January 2000 to May 2013. A total of 125 articles were found and 21 were included. Acupuncture treatment alone or as additional therapy, or even compared to other techniques, was superior and effective to improve pain and function of patients with temporomandibular disorders and most commonly used acupoints were IG4, E6, E7 and F3. CONCLUSION: This study has shown that acupuncture is a technique recommended by national and international literature to treat muscular temporomandibular disorders, promoting pain relief and/or total intensity, improvement of joint movements and oral function and decrease of masticatory muscles hyperactivity.

INTRODUÇÃO: A dor é um fenômeno multidimensional que dificulta o desenvolvimento das atividades cotidianas. A aplicação de estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation - TENS) está entre uma das modalidades mais usadas para o tratamento da dor. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar se a TENS acupuntural (baixa frequência) influencia a dor aguda produzida pela hipotermia local em indivíduos saudáveis, quando os eletrodos estão localizados nos acupontos TA5 e CS6 e na aplicação placebo. MÉTODOS: Trinta e dois voluntários, de ambos os gêneros, foram alocados, aleatoriamente, nos grupos TENS e placebo. O estudo consistiu em três momentos: hipotermia sem eletroanalgesia, hipotermia com eletroanalgesia ou placebo, e hipotermia pós-eletroanalgesia ou placebo, para avaliar o efeito da TENS e do placebo na latência do limiar de dor e na intensidade da dor. RESULTADOS: Os resultados mostraram que a latência do limiar de dor aumenta significativamente quando comparados os momentos antes e depois do uso da TENS, enquanto o grupo placebo não mostrou significância entre seus ciclos de experimentação. A intensidade da dor não sofreu influencia da TENS e do placebo. CONCLUSÃO: Nossos resultados sugerem que a TENS acupuntural aplicada sobre a área dos acupontos TA5 e CS6 é eficaz em aumentar a latência do limiar de dor, mas não interfere na intensidade da dor.