OS EFEITOS VASCULARES DA ACUPUNCTURA.

This study aims for a better understanding of the effects of both proximal and distal acupuncture in its relation with vasodilation and vasoconstriction in the circulatory system. It also brings results into context with previous studies that claim acupunture to cause vasoconstriction and consequently to raise blood pressure. This study monitored the blood pressure - before and after procedure - of 24 individuals distributed randomly in three groups. Proximal acupuncture was applied in Group 1 to points 7L, 9L and 6PC. Distal acupuncture was applied in Group 2 to points 6SP, 3K and 39GB. Group 3 - the control group - was not punctured. Needle retention time was ten minutes and the procedure was repeated three times, with one-week intervals. Group 1 saw an increase in diastolic pressure in half of the cases, while sistolic pressure diminished in 75% of the individuals. Group 2 registered a generalized decrease in all three variables (systolic and diastolic pressure, and heart rate). The sistolic pressure went down in 62,5% of the control group, along with an increase in diastolic pressure and decrease in the heart rate of 62,5% of individuals. The finals results don't support the idea of any vascular effect after applying proximal or distal acupuncture. The expected outcome would include an increase in the diastolic pressure in both groups where acupuncture was applied and a decrease on all three variables monitored in the control group, which was not registered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]