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Acupuncture

The occupational discipline of the traditional Chinese methods of Acupuncture Therapy for treating Disease by inserting Needles along specific pathways or Meridians.

Acupuncture  is a form of alternative medicine in which thin needles are inserted into the body. It is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TCM theory and practice are not based upon scientific knowledge, and acupuncture is a pseudoscience. There is a diverse range of acupuncture theories based on different philosophies, and techniques vary depending on the country. The method used in TCM is likely the most widespread in the United States. It is most often used for pain relief, though it is also used for a wide range of other conditions. Acupuncture is generally used only in combination with other forms of treatment.

The conclusions of many trials and numerous systematic reviews of acupuncture are largely inconsistent, which suggests that it is not effective. An overview of Cochrane reviews found that acupuncture is not effective for a wide range of conditions. A systematic review of systematic reviews found little evidence of acupuncture's effectiveness in treating pain. The evidence suggests that short-term treatment with acupuncture does not produce long-term benefits. Some research results suggest acupuncture can alleviate pain, though the majority of research suggests that acupuncture's effects are mainly due to the placebo effect. A systematic review concluded that the analgesic effect of acupuncture seemed to lack clinical relevance and could not be clearly distinguished from bias. A meta-analysis found that acupuncture for chronic low back pain was cost-effective as an adjunct to standard care, while a systematic review found insufficient evidence for the cost-effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of chronic low back pain.

Acupuncture is generally safe when done by an appropriately trained practitioner using clean needle technique and single-use needles. When properly delivered, it has a low rate of mostly minor adverse effects. Accidents and infections are associated with infractions of sterile technique or neglect of the practitioner. A review stated that the reports of infection transmission increased significantly in the prior decade. The most frequently reported adverse events were pneumothorax and infections. Since serious adverse events continue to be reported, it is recommended that acupuncturists be trained sufficiently to reduce the risk.

Scientific investigation has not found any histological or physiological evidence for traditional Chinese concepts such as qi, meridians, and acupuncture points, and many modern practitioners no longer support the existence of life force energy (qi) flowing through meridians, which was a major part of early belief systems. Acupuncture is believed to have originated around 100 BC in China, around the time The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine (Huangdi Neijing) was published, though some experts suggest it could have been practiced earlier. Over time, conflicting claims and belief systems emerged about the effect of lunar, celestial and earthly cycles, yin and yang energies, and a body's "rhythm" on the effectiveness of treatment. Acupuncture grew and diminished in popularity in China repeatedly, depending on the country's political leadership and the favor of rationalism or Western medicine. Acupuncture spread first to Korea in the 6th century AD, then to Japan through medical missionaries, and then to Europe, starting with France. In the 20th century, as it spread to the United States and Western countries, the spiritual elements of acupuncture that conflict with Western beliefs were abandoned in favor of tapping needles into nerves.

  • A Case Study on Preoperative Acupuncture in Reducing the Risk of Operation.

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    Abstract Title:

    A Case Study on Preoperative Acupuncture in Reducing the Risk of Operation.

    Abstract Source:

    Altern Ther Health Med. 2020 Feb 21. Epub 2020 Feb 21. PMID: 32088669

    Abstract Author(s):

    Qiuyu Tong, Xinling Lu, Yuan Gao, Yue Yong, Weidong Shen

    Article Affiliation:

    Qiuyu Tong

    Abstract:

    The present study investigated the role of acupuncture as a pretreatment prior to surgery. The 72-y-old female was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer and suffered from severe anxiety before the operation. The blood pressure of the patient was elevated due to anxiety. With concern regarding the potential risk of planned surgery, the operation was cancelled. Alternatively, acupuncture was used to reduce her blood pressure and relieve the anxiety. Later on, the patient was examined by an anesthetist, who confirmed that the operation could be carried out as planned. Thus, acupuncture is a promising add-on treatment that may stabilize the condition of patients during surgery.

  • A clinical study of acupuncture and SSP (silver spike point) electro-therapy for dry eye syndrome.

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    Abstract Title:

    A clinical study of acupuncture and SSP (silver spike point) electro-therapy for dry eye syndrome.

    Abstract Source:

    Am J Chin Med. 2006;34(2):197-206. PMID: 16552832

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kuo-Lieh Tseng, Hsu-Jan Liu, Kam-Yuen Tso, Lin-Chung Woung, Yi-Chang Su, Jaung-Geng Lin

    Article Affiliation:

    Graduate Institute of Integration Chinese and Western Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.

    Abstract:

    The present study was designed as a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of acupuncture and silver spike point (SSP) electro-therapy on dry eye syndrome. A total of 43 dry eye syndrome patients participated in the present study. Subjects were divided into control, acupuncture and SSP electro-therapy groups. The three groups were all given artificial tears treatment. Patients in the treatment groups were given two 20-minute treatments of either acupuncture or SSP. Assessment was carried out using the Basal Schirmer test, tear break-up time (BUT), visual analog scale (VAS) and an overall score of eye condition. After four weeks of treatment, both the acupuncture and SSP treatment groups showed improvements over the control group, in Schirmer tests of the left eye and average tearing of both eyes. After 8 weeks of treatment, both treatment groups showed improvements over the control group both in Schirmer tests and VAS. For the right eye, treatment groups showed significant improvements in Schirmer test and VAS versus the control group averages for both eyes. There was no significant difference in BUT at any time. Comparing scores before and after treatment, the acupuncture and SSP groups showed a significant improvement compared to the control group. The acupuncture group showed a greater 8-week improvement in Schirmer tests scores compared to the SSP group. However, the SSP group patients used fewer applications of artificial tears. Acupuncture and SSP electro-therapy were effective in increasing tear secretion in patients with dry eye syndrome. The SSP electro-therapy not only alleviated dry eye syndrome, but also reduced the number of applications of artificial tears necessary.

  • A clinical study of acupuncture and SSP (silver spike point) electro-therapy for dry eye syndrome.

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    Abstract Title:

    A clinical study of acupuncture and SSP (silver spike point) electro-therapy for dry eye syndrome.

    Abstract Source:

    Am J Chin Med. 2006;34(2):197-206. PMID: 16552832

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kuo-Lieh Tseng, Hsu-Jan Liu, Kam-Yuen Tso, Lin-Chung Woung, Yi-Chang Su, Jaung-Geng Lin

    Article Affiliation:

    Graduate Institute of Integration Chinese and Western Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.

    Abstract:

    The present study was designed as a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of acupuncture and silver spike point (SSP) electro-therapy on dry eye syndrome. A total of 43 dry eye syndrome patients participated in the present study. Subjects were divided into control, acupuncture and SSP electro-therapy groups. The three groups were all given artificial tears treatment. Patients in the treatment groups were given two 20-minute treatments of either acupuncture or SSP. Assessment was carried out using the Basal Schirmer test, tear break-up time (BUT), visual analog scale (VAS) and an overall score of eye condition. After four weeks of treatment, both the acupuncture and SSP treatment groups showed improvements over the control group, in Schirmer tests of the left eye and average tearing of both eyes. After 8 weeks of treatment, both treatment groups showed improvements over the control group both in Schirmer tests and VAS. For the right eye, treatment groups showed significant improvements in Schirmer test and VAS versus the control group averages for both eyes. There was no significant difference in BUT at any time. Comparing scores before and after treatment, the acupuncture and SSP groups showed a significant improvement compared to the control group. The acupuncture group showed a greater 8-week improvement in Schirmer tests scores compared to the SSP group. However, the SSP group patients used fewer applications of artificial tears. Acupuncture and SSP electro-therapy were effective in increasing tear secretion in patients with dry eye syndrome. The SSP electro-therapy not only alleviated dry eye syndrome, but also reduced the number of applications of artificial tears necessary.

  • A combined therapy using stimulating auricular acupoints enhances lower-level atropine eyedrops when used for myopia control in school-aged children evaluated by a pilot randomized controlled clinical trial.

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    Abstract Title:

    A combined therapy using stimulating auricular acupoints enhances lower-level atropine eyedrops when used for myopia control in school-aged children evaluated by a pilot randomized controlled clinical trial.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Med. 2008 Dec ;16(6):305-10. Epub 2008 May 29. PMID: 19028329

    Abstract Author(s):

    Chih-Kai Liang, Tin-Yun Ho, Tsai-Chung Li, Wen-Ming Hsu, Te-Mao Li, Yu-Chen Lee, Wai-Jane Ho, Juei-Tang Cheng, Chung-Yuh Tzeng, I-Ting Liu, Shih-Liang Chang

    Article Affiliation:

    Chih-Kai Liang

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:This study was designed to compare the reduction in myopia progression in patients treated with atropine eyedrops alone with patients treated with a combined treatment of atropine and stimulation of the auricular acupoints.

    METHODS:This study was a randomized single-blind clinical controlled trial. A total of 71 school-aged children with myopia, who fulfilled the eligibility criteria, were recruited. They were randomly assigned into three groups. These were 22 treated with the 0.25% atropine (0.25A) only, 23 treated with the 0.5% atropine (0.5A) only and 26 treated with 0.25% atropine together with stimulation of the auricular acupoints (0.25A+E). The differences in the post-treatment effects among these three groups were statistically assessed. The primary outcome parameter was myopia progression, which was defined as diopter change per year (D/Y) after cycloplegic refraction measurement.

    RESULTS:The mean myopia progression of the 0.25A group was 0.38+/-0.32 D/Y. No significant difference in mean myopia progression was found between the 0.5A (0.15+/-0.15 D/Y) and 0.25A+E (0.21+/-0.23 D/Y) groups. However, there was a markedly reduced myopia progression in the 0.25A+E group compared to the 0.25A group (p<0.05). Furthermore, there was no statistical difference among these three groups in axial length elongation (ALE) of eye during this stage of the investigation.

    CONCLUSIONS:This study demonstrates that there was efficacy in stimulating the auricular acupoints and this enhanced the action of 0.25% atropine as a means of myopia control. The result was an effect almost equal to that of 0.5% atropine alone. There is also a need that the ALE of the eye should be further investigated over a longer period using the combined therapy.

  • A combined therapy using stimulating auricular acupoints enhances lower-level atropine eyedrops when used for myopia control in school-aged children evaluated by a pilot randomized controlled clinical trial.

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    Abstract Title:

    A combined therapy using stimulating auricular acupoints enhances lower-level atropine eyedrops when used for myopia control in school-aged children evaluated by a pilot randomized controlled clinical trial.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Med. 2008 Dec ;16(6):305-10. Epub 2008 May 29. PMID: 19028329

    Abstract Author(s):

    Chih-Kai Liang, Tin-Yun Ho, Tsai-Chung Li, Wen-Ming Hsu, Te-Mao Li, Yu-Chen Lee, Wai-Jane Ho, Juei-Tang Cheng, Chung-Yuh Tzeng, I-Ting Liu, Shih-Liang Chang

    Article Affiliation:

    Chih-Kai Liang

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:This study was designed to compare the reduction in myopia progression in patients treated with atropine eyedrops alone with patients treated with a combined treatment of atropine and stimulation of the auricular acupoints.

    METHODS:This study was a randomized single-blind clinical controlled trial. A total of 71 school-aged children with myopia, who fulfilled the eligibility criteria, were recruited. They were randomly assigned into three groups. These were 22 treated with the 0.25% atropine (0.25A) only, 23 treated with the 0.5% atropine (0.5A) only and 26 treated with 0.25% atropine together with stimulation of the auricular acupoints (0.25A+E). The differences in the post-treatment effects among these three groups were statistically assessed. The primary outcome parameter was myopia progression, which was defined as diopter change per year (D/Y) after cycloplegic refraction measurement.

    RESULTS:The mean myopia progression of the 0.25A group was 0.38+/-0.32 D/Y. No significant difference in mean myopia progression was found between the 0.5A (0.15+/-0.15 D/Y) and 0.25A+E (0.21+/-0.23 D/Y) groups. However, there was a markedly reduced myopia progression in the 0.25A+E group compared to the 0.25A group (p<0.05). Furthermore, there was no statistical difference among these three groups in axial length elongation (ALE) of eye during this stage of the investigation.

    CONCLUSIONS:This study demonstrates that there was efficacy in stimulating the auricular acupoints and this enhanced the action of 0.25% atropine as a means of myopia control. The result was an effect almost equal to that of 0.5% atropine alone. There is also a need that the ALE of the eye should be further investigated over a longer period using the combined therapy.

  • A feasibility study to examine the role of acupuncture to reduce symptoms of lymphoedema after breast cancer: a randomised controlled trial.

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    Abstract Title:

    A feasibility study to examine the role of acupuncture to reduce symptoms of lymphoedema after breast cancer: a randomised controlled trial.

    Abstract Source:

    Acupunct Med. 2014 Oct ;32(5):387-93. Epub 2014 Jul 2. PMID: 24990160

    Abstract Author(s):

    Caroline A Smith, Marie Pirotta, Sharon Kilbreath

    Article Affiliation:

    Caroline A Smith

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:To determine the feasibility, acceptability and safety of using acupuncture to treat arm lymphoedema in women following treatment for breast cancer.

    METHODS:We conducted a randomised controlled trial of acupuncture compared with treatment as usual. Twenty women with stable unilateral intransient lymphoedema present for at least 6 months were recruited from Sydney, Australia. The women received 12 acupuncture treatments administered to body and arm points on the non-lymphoedematous limb over 8 weeks, twice weekly for 4 weeks then once weekly for 4 weeks. Outcome measures included an assessment of interest to participate in the trial, identification of successful recruitment strategies, the appropriateness of eligibility criteria and compliance with treatment attendance. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline and 8 weeks and included extracellular fluid, lymphoedema symptoms, well-being and safety.

    RESULTS:Acupuncture was an acceptable intervention in women with upper limb lymphoedema. Compliance with the treatment protocol was high, with nine women completing all 12 treatments. Outcome forms were completed by 17 women at 8 weeks. No major adverse occurrences, as defined by the study protocol, were reported from the acupuncture group although one woman found the needling uncomfortable, and no study participant experienced an increase in swelling of>10%. There was no change in extracellular fluid or any patient-reported outcome measurement.

    CONCLUSIONS:Lymphoedema is a persistent symptom experienced by women recovering from breast cancer. Our study suggests that acupuncture may stabilise symptoms and no major safety concerns were identified, so further research is needed.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER:Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, http://www.anzctr.org.au ACTRN12612000607875.

  • A feasibility study to examine the role of acupuncture to reduce symptoms of lymphoedema after breast cancer: a randomised controlled trial.

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    Abstract Title:

    A feasibility study to examine the role of acupuncture to reduce symptoms of lymphoedema after breast cancer: a randomised controlled trial.

    Abstract Source:

    Acupunct Med. 2014 Oct ;32(5):387-93. Epub 2014 Jul 2. PMID: 24990160

    Abstract Author(s):

    Caroline A Smith, Marie Pirotta, Sharon Kilbreath

    Article Affiliation:

    Caroline A Smith

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:To determine the feasibility, acceptability and safety of using acupuncture to treat arm lymphoedema in women following treatment for breast cancer.

    METHODS:We conducted a randomised controlled trial of acupuncture compared with treatment as usual. Twenty women with stable unilateral intransient lymphoedema present for at least 6 months were recruited from Sydney, Australia. The women received 12 acupuncture treatments administered to body and arm points on the non-lymphoedematous limb over 8 weeks, twice weekly for 4 weeks then once weekly for 4 weeks. Outcome measures included an assessment of interest to participate in the trial, identification of successful recruitment strategies, the appropriateness of eligibility criteria and compliance with treatment attendance. Clinical outcomes were assessed at baseline and 8 weeks and included extracellular fluid, lymphoedema symptoms, well-being and safety.

    RESULTS:Acupuncture was an acceptable intervention in women with upper limb lymphoedema. Compliance with the treatment protocol was high, with nine women completing all 12 treatments. Outcome forms were completed by 17 women at 8 weeks. No major adverse occurrences, as defined by the study protocol, were reported from the acupuncture group although one woman found the needling uncomfortable, and no study participant experienced an increase in swelling of>10%. There was no change in extracellular fluid or any patient-reported outcome measurement.

    CONCLUSIONS:Lymphoedema is a persistent symptom experienced by women recovering from breast cancer. Our study suggests that acupuncture may stabilise symptoms and no major safety concerns were identified, so further research is needed.

    TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER:Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, http://www.anzctr.org.au ACTRN12612000607875.

  • A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on acupuncture for amblyopia📎

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    Abstract Title:

    A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on acupuncture for amblyopia.

    Abstract Source:

    Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013 ;2013:648054. Epub 2013 Apr 30. PMID: 23737841

    Abstract Author(s):

    Xingke Yan, Tiantian Zhu, Chongbing Ma, Anguo Liu, Lili Dong, Junyan Wang

    Article Affiliation:

    Xingke Yan

    Abstract:

    Objective. To assess the evidence of efficacy and safety of acupuncture for amblyopia and analyze the current situation of its clinical setting. Methods. We systemically searched Wanfang, Chongqing Weipu Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals (VIP), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and PubMed. Published randomized controlled trials (RCT) and controlled clinical trials (CCT) that evaluated the effect of acupuncture for amblyopia compared with conventional treatment were identified. The methodological quality of the included trials was assessed based on the Jadad scale. Data synthesis was facilitated using RevMan 5.1. Results. Fourteen trials involving 2662 participants satisfied the minimum criteria for meta-analysis. The evidence showed that the total effective rate of treatment within the group receiving acupuncture was higher than that in conventional group; there were statistically significant differences between groups (polled random effects model (RR) = 1.17, 95% confidence interval (1.11, 1.24), Z = 5.56, P<0.00001). Conclusion. The total effective rate of acupuncture for amblyopia was significantly superior to conventional treatment, indicating that acupuncture was a promising treatment for amblyopia. However, due to the limited number of CCTs and RCTs, especially those of large sample size and multicenter randomized controlled studies that were quantitatively insufficient, we could not reach a completely affirmative conclusion until further studies of high quality are available.

  • A Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Epilepsy

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    Abstract Title:

    [A Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Epilepsy].

    Abstract Source:

    Zhen Ci Yan Jiu. 2018 Apr 25 ;43(4):263-8. PMID: 29888583

    Abstract Author(s):

    Bo-Wen Deng, Xiao-Zhou Luo, Chun-Zhi Tang, Xiao Zhang

    Article Affiliation:

    Bo-Wen Deng

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of epilepsy.

    METHODS:We first collected research data about randomized control trials (RCTs) of acupuncture treatment of epilepsy from databases CNKI, CBM, VIP and Wanfang using key words"(acupuncture)","(epilepsy)"or"(epilepsy)"or"(epilepsy)", and from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library using key words"acupuncture""needling""prod""epilepsy""epilepsies"or"seizure disorder"or"simple seizure"from the date of database construction to May 5, 2017. Then, two researchers extracted the study outcomes and evaluated the evidence qualification of the research data independently using GRADE profile 3.6 software and analyzed the primary outcome indexes using RevMan 5.3 and STATA 14.0.

    RESULTS:Eleven articles containing 827 cases were included in the Meta-analysis. We found that acupuncture or acupuncture in combination with other conventional drugs had a significantly better efficacy than conventional drugs in the treatment of epilepsy [=3.94, 95%CI (2.49, 6.24),=5.85,<0.000 01]. There was a statistical heterogeneity (=0.04, l=60%), and the Meta-analysis was not feasible for the studies of acupuncture vs medication. Combination of acupuncture and Chinese traditional drugs was significantly better than simple Chinese traditional drugs [= 4.61, 95%CI (2.18, 9.74),=4.01,<0.000 1], and combination of acupuncture and wes-tern medicines was obviously better than simple western medicines [=3.07, 95%CI(1.24, 7.65),=2.41,=0.02] in the treatment of epilepsy.

    CONCLUSION:Acupuncture therapy may have a positive effect in the treatment of epilepsy but the conclusion needs further verification due to very fewer high-quality and well-designed RCTs found at the present.

  • A Pilot Observational Study of an Acupressure/Acupuncture Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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    Abstract Title:

    A Pilot Observational Study of an Acupressure/Acupuncture Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

    Abstract Source:

    J Altern Complement Med. 2017 May 22. Epub 2017 May 22. PMID: 28530441

    Abstract Author(s):

    Lana R Warren, Patricia A Rao, David C Paton

    Article Affiliation:

    Lana R Warren

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVES:To determine whether children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would tolerate an acupressure/acupuncture intervention and whether parents would adhere to a twice-weekly, 8-week intervention protocol. Second, to further understand best measures to use to capture impact of intervention on behavioral and regulatory functions.

    DESIGN:This is an observational pilot study with pre-, mid-, and postintervention measures.

    SETTINGS/LOCATION:The intervention was carried out in a private practice office in a large metropolitan area.

    SUBJECTS:A total of 10 children of ages 3-10 years with ASD and one of their parents participated.

    INTERVENTIONS:A total of 16 biweekly treatment sessions of acupressure and/or acupuncture were carried out by a licensed acupuncturist, and a daily home-based acupressure intervention was carried out by a parent.

    OUTCOME MEASURES:Attendance, tolerance of intervention, parent compliance with home program, and parent compliance in completing daily diary and five standardized measures of behavioral and regulatory functions pre-, mid-, and postintervention were recorded.

    RESULTS:The 10 children in this observational study, collectively, tolerated the intervention and parents adhered to the 16 sessions, biweekly protocol, and home protocol, as well as completing daily diary and five standardized measures at three different time intervals. The five measurements appeared to be sensitive to behavioral and regulatory functions that may improve with this type of intervention.

    CONCLUSIONS:The results of this observational pilot study suggest that acupressure/acupuncture is a feasible intervention for children with ASD that merits rigorous evaluation through a randomized controlled trial.

  • A Prospective Open-Label Study of Combined Treatment for Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease Using Acupuncture and Bee Venom Acupuncture as an Adjunctive Treatment.

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    Abstract Title:

    A Prospective Open-Label Study of Combined Treatment for Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease Using Acupuncture and Bee Venom Acupuncture as an Adjunctive Treatment.

    Abstract Source:

    J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Oct ;21(10):598-603. Epub 2015 Jul 31. PMID: 26230989

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kyeong-Hee Doo, Ji-Hyun Lee, Seung-Yeon Cho, Woo-Sang Jung, Sang-Kwan Moon, Jung-Mi Park, Chang-Nam Ko, Ho Kim, Hi-Joon Park, Seong-Uk Park

    Article Affiliation:

    Kyeong-Hee Doo

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVES:The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness and safety of combined treatment using acupuncture and bee venom acupuncture (BVA) as an adjunctive treatment for idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD).

    METHODS:Eleven patients (7 men and 4 women) with idiopathic PD who had been receiving a stable dose of anti-parkinsonian medication for at least 4 weeks. Participants received conventional treatment for 12 weeks. Subsequently, they received additional treatment with acupuncture and BVA twice weekly for 12 weeks while still maintaining conventional treatment. All participants were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks by using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQL), the speed and number of steps required to walk 20 m, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Maximum excursion and directional control, measured by computerized dynamic posturography (Balance Master(®) System, NeuroCom, San Carlos, CA), were used to assess postural stability.

    RESULTS:Patients who underwent 12 weeks of twice-weekly combined treatment with acupuncture and BVA showed significant improvements in gait speed, PDQL score, activities of daily living (UPDRS part II), motor symptoms (UPDRS part III), and combined UPDRS part II+III scores compared with assessments after conventional treatment.

    CONCLUSIONS:Combined treatment with acupuncture and BVA showed promising results as a safe adjunctive therapy for PD.

  • A Prospective Open-Label Study of Combined Treatment for Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease Using Acupuncture and Bee Venom Acupuncture as an Adjunctive Treatment.

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    Abstract Title:

    A Prospective Open-Label Study of Combined Treatment for Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease Using Acupuncture and Bee Venom Acupuncture as an Adjunctive Treatment.

    Abstract Source:

    J Altern Complement Med. 2015 Oct ;21(10):598-603. Epub 2015 Jul 31. PMID: 26230989

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kyeong-Hee Doo, Ji-Hyun Lee, Seung-Yeon Cho, Woo-Sang Jung, Sang-Kwan Moon, Jung-Mi Park, Chang-Nam Ko, Ho Kim, Hi-Joon Park, Seong-Uk Park

    Article Affiliation:

    Kyeong-Hee Doo

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVES:The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness and safety of combined treatment using acupuncture and bee venom acupuncture (BVA) as an adjunctive treatment for idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD).

    METHODS:Eleven patients (7 men and 4 women) with idiopathic PD who had been receiving a stable dose of anti-parkinsonian medication for at least 4 weeks. Participants received conventional treatment for 12 weeks. Subsequently, they received additional treatment with acupuncture and BVA twice weekly for 12 weeks while still maintaining conventional treatment. All participants were assessed at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks by using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), the Parkinson's Disease Quality of Life Questionnaire (PDQL), the speed and number of steps required to walk 20 m, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Maximum excursion and directional control, measured by computerized dynamic posturography (Balance Master(®) System, NeuroCom, San Carlos, CA), were used to assess postural stability.

    RESULTS:Patients who underwent 12 weeks of twice-weekly combined treatment with acupuncture and BVA showed significant improvements in gait speed, PDQL score, activities of daily living (UPDRS part II), motor symptoms (UPDRS part III), and combined UPDRS part II+III scores compared with assessments after conventional treatment.

    CONCLUSIONS:Combined treatment with acupuncture and BVA showed promising results as a safe adjunctive therapy for PD.

  • A randomised, placebo-controlled trial of manual and electrical acupuncture for the treatment of tinnitus.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomised, placebo-controlled trial of manual and electrical acupuncture for the treatment of tinnitus.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Med. 2010 Dec;18(6):249-55. Epub 2010 Oct 8. PMID: 21130361

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kelun Wang, Jon Bugge, Sven Bugge

    Article Affiliation:

    Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction, Orofacial Pain Laboratory, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7 D-3, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Abstract:

    The aim of this study was to examine the effects of manual/electrical acupuncture treatment on tinnitus in a randomised, single-blinded, placebo-controlled design. Fifty patients (46 males, 4 females) suffering from tinnitus were investigated. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups: a manual acupuncture group (MA), an electrical acupuncture group (EA), and a placebo group (PL). The frequency of tinnitus occurrence, tinnitus intensity, and reduction of life quality were recorded before treatment (Baseline), after 6 treatments (After-Treatment), and 1 month after the completion of treatment (1-Month-After). Standard audiometric tests were conducted on each patient at Baseline and After-Treatment. The patients also provided an overall subjective evaluation of treatment effectiveness at each stage. Eight to ten acupoints were selected at each treatment by an experienced acupuncturist. Six treatments were performed, each separated by an interval of 1 week. Analysis of variance and t-tests were used to statistically compare the data. The frequency of tinnitus occurrence and the tinnitus loudness were significantly decreased After-Treatment compared with Baseline in the EA group (P<0.009). Life quality was improved After-Treatment and at 1-Month-After compared with Baseline in both MA and EA groups (P<0.038). However, no significant differences were detected among the three groups (P>0.079). The audiogram did not show any significant changes after treatment in either group (P>0.091). The overall subjective evaluation indicated significant improvements After-Treatment compared with Baseline in both MA and EA groups (P<0.011). Furthermore, After-Treatment subjective evaluation was significantly better in the EA group compared with either the MA or PL group (P<0.011). These results indicate that there is no statistically significant differential effect of manual or electrical acupuncture on tinnitus treatment efficacy, however, electrical acupuncture does confer some relative advantages.

  • A randomised, placebo-controlled trial of manual and electrical acupuncture for the treatment of tinnitus.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomised, placebo-controlled trial of manual and electrical acupuncture for the treatment of tinnitus.

    Abstract Source:

    Complement Ther Med. 2010 Dec;18(6):249-55. Epub 2010 Oct 8. PMID: 21130361

    Abstract Author(s):

    Kelun Wang, Jon Bugge, Sven Bugge

    Article Affiliation:

    Center for Sensory-Motor Interaction, Orofacial Pain Laboratory, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7 D-3, DK-9220 Aalborg, Denmark. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Abstract:

    The aim of this study was to examine the effects of manual/electrical acupuncture treatment on tinnitus in a randomised, single-blinded, placebo-controlled design. Fifty patients (46 males, 4 females) suffering from tinnitus were investigated. The patients were randomly assigned to three groups: a manual acupuncture group (MA), an electrical acupuncture group (EA), and a placebo group (PL). The frequency of tinnitus occurrence, tinnitus intensity, and reduction of life quality were recorded before treatment (Baseline), after 6 treatments (After-Treatment), and 1 month after the completion of treatment (1-Month-After). Standard audiometric tests were conducted on each patient at Baseline and After-Treatment. The patients also provided an overall subjective evaluation of treatment effectiveness at each stage. Eight to ten acupoints were selected at each treatment by an experienced acupuncturist. Six treatments were performed, each separated by an interval of 1 week. Analysis of variance and t-tests were used to statistically compare the data. The frequency of tinnitus occurrence and the tinnitus loudness were significantly decreased After-Treatment compared with Baseline in the EA group (P<0.009). Life quality was improved After-Treatment and at 1-Month-After compared with Baseline in both MA and EA groups (P<0.038). However, no significant differences were detected among the three groups (P>0.079). The audiogram did not show any significant changes after treatment in either group (P>0.091). The overall subjective evaluation indicated significant improvements After-Treatment compared with Baseline in both MA and EA groups (P<0.011). Furthermore, After-Treatment subjective evaluation was significantly better in the EA group compared with either the MA or PL group (P<0.011). These results indicate that there is no statistically significant differential effect of manual or electrical acupuncture on tinnitus treatment efficacy, however, electrical acupuncture does confer some relative advantages.

  • A randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for initiation of labor in nulliparous women.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for initiation of labor in nulliparous women.

    Abstract Source:

    J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2006 Aug;19(8):465-70. PMID: 16966110

    Abstract Author(s):

    Terry C Harper, Remy R Coeytaux, Wunian Chen, Kathryn Campbell, Jay S Kaufman, Kenneth J Moise, John M Thorp

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of outpatient acupuncture for labor stimulation. METHODS: Nulliparous women at 39 4/7 weeks or greater with a singleton gestation and Bishop score of less than 7 were randomized to usual medical care (control group) versus usual care and three outpatient acupuncture treatments (acupuncture group). Each treatment consisted of eight needles applied to bilateral points LI4, SP6, UB31, and UB32. The primary outcome was time elapsed from the time of randomization to delivery. Secondary outcomes included rates of cesarean section and induction of labor. Medical records were abstracted for maternal demographic, medical, and delivery outcome data. A priori sample size calculation revealed that 56 women were required to detect a 72-hour difference in delivery time with a power of 83% and an alpha of 0.05. Student's t-test, Chi-square, and Kaplan-Meier statistics were used to compare groups. RESULTS: Fifty-six women were randomized and completed the study procedures. Race, age, gestational age, and cervical Bishop score were similar in both groups. Mean time to delivery occurred 21 hours sooner in the acupuncture group, but this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.36). Compared to controls, women in the acupuncture group tended to be more likely to labor spontaneously (70% vs. 50%, p = 0.12) and less likely to deliver by cesarean section (39% vs. 17%, p = 0.07). Of women who were not induced, those in the acupuncture group were more likely to be delivered than the controls at any point after enrollment (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture is well tolerated among term nulliparous women and holds promise in reducing interventions that occur in post-term pregnancies.

  • A randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for initiation of labor in nulliparous women.

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    Abstract Title:

    A randomized controlled trial of acupuncture for initiation of labor in nulliparous women.

    Abstract Source:

    J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2006 Aug;19(8):465-70. PMID: 16966110

    Abstract Author(s):

    Terry C Harper, Remy R Coeytaux, Wunian Chen, Kathryn Campbell, Jay S Kaufman, Kenneth J Moise, John M Thorp

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of outpatient acupuncture for labor stimulation. METHODS: Nulliparous women at 39 4/7 weeks or greater with a singleton gestation and Bishop score of less than 7 were randomized to usual medical care (control group) versus usual care and three outpatient acupuncture treatments (acupuncture group). Each treatment consisted of eight needles applied to bilateral points LI4, SP6, UB31, and UB32. The primary outcome was time elapsed from the time of randomization to delivery. Secondary outcomes included rates of cesarean section and induction of labor. Medical records were abstracted for maternal demographic, medical, and delivery outcome data. A priori sample size calculation revealed that 56 women were required to detect a 72-hour difference in delivery time with a power of 83% and an alpha of 0.05. Student's t-test, Chi-square, and Kaplan-Meier statistics were used to compare groups. RESULTS: Fifty-six women were randomized and completed the study procedures. Race, age, gestational age, and cervical Bishop score were similar in both groups. Mean time to delivery occurred 21 hours sooner in the acupuncture group, but this difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.36). Compared to controls, women in the acupuncture group tended to be more likely to labor spontaneously (70% vs. 50%, p = 0.12) and less likely to deliver by cesarean section (39% vs. 17%, p = 0.07). Of women who were not induced, those in the acupuncture group were more likely to be delivered than the controls at any point after enrollment (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture is well tolerated among term nulliparous women and holds promise in reducing interventions that occur in post-term pregnancies.

  • A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Stroke Recurrence Rate in Ischemic Stroke Patients With and Without Acupuncture Treatment.

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    Abstract Title:

    A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Stroke Recurrence Rate in Ischemic Stroke Patients With and Without Acupuncture Treatment.

    Abstract Source:

    Medicine (Baltimore). 2015 Sep ;94(39):e1572. PMID: 26426630

    Abstract Author(s):

    Chun-Chuan Shih, Chien-Chang Liao, Mao-Feng Sun, Yi-Chang Su, Chi-Pang Wen, Donald E Morisky, Fung-Chang Sung, Chung Y Hsu, Jaung-Geng Lin

    Article Affiliation:

    Chun-Chuan Shih

    Abstract:

    Little was known about the effects of acupuncture on stroke recurrence. The aim of this study is to investigate whether ischemic stroke patients receiving acupuncture treatment have a decreased risk of stroke recurrence.A retrospective cohort study of 30,058 newly diagnosed cases of ischemic stroke in 2000 to 2004 was conducted based on the claims of Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The use of acupuncture treatment and stroke recurrence were identified during the follow-up period from 2000 to 2009. This study compared the risk of stroke recurrence between ischemic stroke cohorts with and without acupuncture treatment by calculating adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of acupuncture associated with stroke recurrence in the Cox proportional hazard model.The stroke recurrence rate per 1000 person-years decreased from 71.4 without to 69.9 with acupuncture treatment (P < 0.001). Acupuncture treatment was associated with reduced risk of stroke recurrence (HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.84-0.91). The acupuncture effect was noted in patients with or without medical treatment for stroke prevention but its impact decreased with aging of stroke patients. Compared with stroke patients without acupuncture treatment and medication therapy, the hazard ratios of stroke recurrence for those had medication therapy only, acupuncture only, and both were 0.42 (95% CI 0.38-0.46), 0.50 (95% CI 0.43-0.57), and 0.39 (95% CI 0.35-0.43), respectively.This study raises the possibility that acupuncture might be effective in lowering stroke recurrence rate even in those on medications for stroke prevention. Results suggest the need of prospective sham-controlled and randomized trials to establish the efficacy of acupuncture in preventing stroke.

  • A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Stroke Recurrence Rate in Ischemic Stroke Patients With and Without Acupuncture Treatment📎

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    Abstract Title:

    A Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing Stroke Recurrence Rate in Ischemic Stroke Patients With and Without Acupuncture Treatment.

    Abstract Source:

    Medicine (Baltimore). 2015 Sep ;94(39):e1572. PMID: 26426630

    Abstract Author(s):

    Chun-Chuan Shih, Chien-Chang Liao, Mao-Feng Sun, Yi-Chang Su, Chi-Pang Wen, Donald E Morisky, Fung-Chang Sung, Chung Y Hsu, Jaung-Geng Lin

    Article Affiliation:

    Chun-Chuan Shih

    Abstract:

    Little was known about the effects of acupuncture on stroke recurrence. The aim of this study is to investigate whether ischemic stroke patients receiving acupuncture treatment have a decreased risk of stroke recurrence.A retrospective cohort study of 30,058 newly diagnosed cases of ischemic stroke in 2000 to 2004 was conducted based on the claims of Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. The use of acupuncture treatment and stroke recurrence were identified during the follow-up period from 2000 to 2009. This study compared the risk of stroke recurrence between ischemic stroke cohorts with and without acupuncture treatment by calculating adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of acupuncture associated with stroke recurrence in the Cox proportional hazard model.The stroke recurrence rate per 1000 person-years decreased from 71.4 without to 69.9 with acupuncture treatment (P < 0.001). Acupuncture treatment was associated with reduced risk of stroke recurrence (HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.84-0.91). The acupuncture effect was noted in patients with or without medical treatment for stroke prevention but its impact decreased with aging of stroke patients. Compared with stroke patients without acupuncture treatment and medication therapy, the hazard ratios of stroke recurrence for those had medication therapy only, acupuncture only, and both were 0.42 (95% CI 0.38-0.46), 0.50 (95% CI 0.43-0.57), and 0.39 (95% CI 0.35-0.43), respectively.This study raises the possibility that acupuncture might be effective in lowering stroke recurrence rate even in those on medications for stroke prevention. Results suggest the need of prospective sham-controlled and randomized trials to establish the efficacy of acupuncture in preventing stroke.

  • Acupoint combinations used for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: A data mining analysis📎

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    Abstract Title:

    Acupoint combinations used for treatment of Alzheimer's disease: A data mining analysis.

    Abstract Source:

    J Tradit Chin Med. 2018 Dec ;38(6):943-952. PMID: 32186143

    Abstract Author(s):

    Chaochao Yu, Li Wang, Lihong Kong, Feng Shen, Yanjun Du, Lihong Kong, Feng Shen, Yanjun Du, Hua Zhou, Chaoyang Ma

    Article Affiliation:

    Chaochao Yu

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE:To identify the acupoint combinations used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

    METHODS:The clinical literature regarding acupuncture and moxibustion for AD was searched and collected from databases including Chinese Biomedical Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database and PubMed. The database of acupuncture and moxibustion prescriptions for AD was established by using Excel software so as to conduct the descriptive analysis, association analysis on the data.

    RESULTS:Baihui (GV 20), Sishencong (EX-HN 1), Shenmen (HT 7), Zusanli (ST 36), Neiguan (PC 6), Fengchi (GB 20), Taixi (KI 3), Dazhui (GV 14), Shenshu (BL 23), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Shenting (GV 24), Fenglong (ST 40), Xuanzhong (GB 39), Shuigou (GV 26) and Taichong (LR 3) were of higher frequency in the treatment of AD with acupnucture and moxibustion. Most acupoints were selected from the Governor Vessel. The commonly used acupoints were located on the head, face, neck and lower limbs. The combination of the local acupoints with the distal ones was predominated. The crossing points among the specific points presented the advantage in the treatment. The association analysis indicated that the correlation among Fengchi (GB 20)-Baihui (GV 20) was the strongest, followed by combinations of Dazhui (GV 14)-Baihui (GV 20), Shenshu (BL 23)- Baihui (GV 20) and Neiguan (PC 6)- Baihui (GV 20) and indicated the common rules of the clinical acupoint selection and combination for AD.

    CONCLUSION:Our findings provide a reference for acupoints selection and combination for AD in clinical acupuncture practice.

  • Acupoint sticking therapy for treatment of bronchial asthma: a multicenter controlled randomized clinical trial

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    Abstract Title:

    [Acupoint sticking therapy for treatment of bronchial asthma: a multicenter controlled randomized clinical trial].

    Abstract Source:

    Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2009 Aug;29(8):609-12. PMID: 19947260

    Abstract Author(s):

    Hong Yao, Juan Tong, Pan-de Zhang, Jia-ping Tao, Jun-xiong Li

    Article Affiliation:

    Department of TCM and Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical College, Guangzhou, China. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Abstract:

    OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of acupoint sticking on clinical symptoms and life quality in patients with bronchial asthma. METHODS: Multicenter randomized double-blind clinical trial was done, one hundred and eighty-eight cases were divided into a medication acupoint sticking group (125 cases) and a placebo group (63 cases). Dazhui (GV 14), Feishu (BL 13), Tiantu (CV 22), etc. were selected in both groups. The medication cakes were made of grinding pepper, brassica alba seeds, asarum, etc. into fine powder mixed with ginger oil and ginger juice, applied on acupoints in the acupoint sticking group. While another compound cakes made of powder of red rice, black rice, maize mixed with small amount of ginger juice, were used in the placebo group. Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire(AQLQ), symptom scores during the day and night, scores of self effect, and the value of lung function were observed. RESULTS: The value of daily behavior and environmental factors of AQLQ, total scores of AQLQ, daytime symptoms and scores of self effect in the medication acupoint sticking group, were significantly improved compared to those of placebo group (all P<0.05). The lung function of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and the percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second in predicted value (FEV1/FVC) had no significant diffrence between two groups (both P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The acupoint sticking therapy can significantly improve clinical symptoms of patients with bronchial asthma, and can improve life quality of the patients.

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