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Studien zum Thema Schmerz und Bewegungsapparat

Effect of Acupuncture on Postoperative Pain in Patients after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture compared to that of parecoxib sodium on postoperative pain (POP), postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), and the Bruggemann Comfort Scale (BCS) in patients following laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Methods. Eligible patients admitted to the hospital for LC were randomly allocated to either acupuncture or control groups in a 1 : 1 ratio. The subjects in the acupuncture group received acupuncture while those in the control group were injected by parecoxib sodium at their requests. The pain score, PONV score, and BCS were assessed at 0 h, 6 h, 9 h, and 12 h after operation. The primary...
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The Effect of Acupuncture on Elbow Joint Sports Injuries Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Abstract PurposeElbow joint injuries are extremely common in most athletes. Athletes‘ chronic elbow injuries can involve multiple complex anatomical structures related to orthopedics. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the characteristics of magnetic resonance (MR) images of chronic sports injuries of the elbow joint and the influence of acupuncture treatment on MR images and clinical symptoms. MethodsA total of 60 elbow joints of 39 athletes from 15-25 years old were selected for coronal, sagittal, and axial MR scans to observe the image characteristics; 60 elbow joints were randomly divided into acupuncture group and control group and observed changes...
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Cost-effectiveness analysis of acupuncture compared with usual care for acute non-specific low back pain: secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial

Abstract ObjectiveTo assess the cost-effectiveness of a single treatment session of acupuncture, when applied in addition to usual care for acute low back pain (ALBP). MethodsSecondary analysis of a multicentre randomised controlled trial in Norwegian general practice. In total, 171 participants with ALBP ⩽14 days were randomised to a control group (CG) receiving usual care or to an acupuncture group (AG) receiving one additional session of Western medical acupuncture alongside usual care. Primary outcome measures for this cost-effectiveness analysis were quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), health care costs and societal costs at days 28 and 365, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER)...
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Effect of Ear Acupuncture plus Dry Cupping on Activities and Quality of Life in the Adults with Chronic Back Pain: a Randomized Trial

Abstract BackgroundChronic pain is a complex phenomenon that brings physical and emotional impairments negatively impacting people’s quality of life. The adoption of interventions such as ear acupuncture and dry cupping can represent a treatment option for people with chronic back pain. ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of ear acupuncture combined with dry cupping therapy on the interference of pain with the daily activities and quality of life of adults with chronic back pain. MethodsAn open-label, randomized, parallel-group controlled clinical trial. One hundred and ninety-eight adults were randomized into control (CG – ear acupuncture) or experimental (EG – ear acupuncture combined with...
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Effects of laser acupuncture tele-therapy for rheumatoid arthritis elderly patients

Abstract Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive common autoimmune disorder and is one of the most functional limiting diseases in elderly. Until recently, its treatment is mainly based on physical locations and meetings while being face to face. However, laser acupuncture tele-therapy approaches can significantly provide the patient with safety during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as changing the disorder’s prognosis. Sixty patients were assigned randomly into 2 groups with 1:1 ratio. Patients in group A are treated remotely by laser acupuncture in addition to methotrexate and a tele-rehabilitation program in the form of aerobic exercise training. Patients in group...
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Short-Term Effect of Scalp Acupuncture on Pain, Sleep Disorders, and Quality of Life in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract ObjetiveTo evaluate the effects of Chinese scalp acupuncture in patients diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) on pain, sleep, and quality of life (QOL), and compare these results with the results from traditional therapies. MethodsSixty patients diagnosed with TMD using the research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD) were allocated into four treatment groups: counseling (C = 15), occlusal splint (OS = 15), scalp acupuncture (SA = 15), and manual therapy (MT = 15). Participants were re-evaluated within 1 month. Three questionnaires were used to access sleep disorders, QOL, and pain: The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), World Health Organization...
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Optimized acupuncture treatment (acupuncture and intradermal needling) for cervical spondylosis-related neck pain: a multicenter randomized controlled trial

Abstract Cervical spondylosis (CS)-related neck pain is difficult to treat because of its degenerative nature. The aim of this 9-center, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy of optimized acupuncture for CS-related neck pain. Participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomized to optimized, shallow, and sham acupuncture groups (1:1:1). The primary outcome was the change from baseline in the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire score at week 4. Participants were followed up until week 16. Of the 896 randomized participants, 857 received ≥1 intervention session; 280, 286, and 291 received optimized, shallow, and sham acupuncture, respectively. A...
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Greater Somatosensory Afference With Acupuncture Increases Primary Somatosensory Connectivity and Alleviates Fibromyalgia Pain via Insular γ-Aminobutyric Acid: A Randomized Neuroimaging Trial

Abstract ObjectiveAcupuncture is a complex multicomponent treatment that has shown promise in the treatment of fibromyalgia (FM). However, clinical trials have shown mixed results, possibly due to heterogeneous methodology and lack of understanding of the underlying mechanism of action. The present study was undertaken to understand the specific contribution of somatosensory afference to improvements in clinical pain, and the specific brain circuits involved. MethodsSeventy-six patients with FM were randomized to receive either electroacupuncture (EA), with somatosensory afference, or mock laser acupuncture (ML), with no somatosensory afference, twice a week over 8 treatments. Patients with FM in each treatment group were...
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Multicentre randomised controlled clinical trial of electroacupuncture with usual care for patients with non-acute pain after back surgery

Abstract BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and safety between electroacupuncture (EA) combined with usual care (UC) and UC alone for pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with non-acute low back pain (LBP) after back surgery. MethodsIn this multicentre, randomised, assessor-blinded active-controlled trial, 108 participants were equally randomised to either the EA with UC or the UC alone. Participants in the EA with UC group received EA treatment and UC treatment twice a week for 4 weeks; those allocated to the UC group received only UC. The primary outcome was the VAS pain intensity score....
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Effect of Electro-Acupuncture (EA) and Manual Acupuncture (MA) on Markers of Inflammation in Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract BackgroundInflammation plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Although both electro-acupuncture (EA) and manual acupuncture (MA) are known to influence systemic inflammation, little is known about the potential changes in inflammation as a working mechanism of EA and MA in KOA. MethodsData from the Acupuncture for Knee Osteoarthritis Trial (ATKOA) were used. Serum concentrations of inflammatory factors (tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, IL-15, IL-17, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), CC-chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), and cartilage degradation biomarkers (matrix metalloproteinase-1 MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13 and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein COMP)) were...
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Short-Term Effect of Scalp Acupuncture on Pain, Sleep Disorders, and Quality of Life in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of Chinese scalp acupuncture in patients diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) on pain, sleep, and quality of life (QOL), and compare these results with the results from traditional therapies. MethodsSixty patients diagnosed with TMD using the research diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD) were allocated into four treatment groups: counseling (C = 15), occlusal splint (OS = 15), scalp acupuncture (SA = 15), and manual therapy (MT = 15). Participants were re-evaluated within 1 month. Three questionnaires were used to access sleep disorders, QOL, and pain: The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), World Health Organization...
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Efficacy of Intensive Acupuncture Versus Sham Acupuncture in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy of intensive acupuncture (3 times weekly for 8 weeks) versus sham acupuncture for knee osteoarthritis (OA) MethodsIn this multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled trial, patients with knee OA were randomly assigned to receive electroacupuncture (EA), manual acupuncture (MA), or sham acupuncture (SA) 3 times weekly for 8 weeks. Participants, outcome assessors, and statisticians were blinded with regard to treatment group assignment. The primary outcome measure was response rate, which is the proportion of participants who simultaneously achieved minimal clinically important improvement in pain and function by week 8. The primary analysis was conducted using a Z test...
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A randomised controlled trial of laser acupuncture improves early outcomes of osteoarthritis patients‘ physical functional ability after total knee replacement

Abstract: Background and purpose: Total knee replacement is the most effective intervention for late-stage osteoarthritis; however, a major concern is postoperative recovery of physical function. This randomised controlled trial evaluated the effects of acupuncture with low-level laser therapy (ALLLT) on early outcomes of physical function after total knee replacement. Materials and methodsEighty-two osteoarthritis patients were recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental group receiving ALLLT or the control group receiving sham ALLLT without laser beam output. Physical function was evaluated by assessing knee joint flexion and stiffness on days 1, 2, and 3 after total knee replacement. ResultsGeneralised estimating equations...
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Acupuncture vs Noninsertive Sham Acupuncture in Aging Patients With Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Autor: Zongshi Qin, Yulong Ding, Chang Xu, Joey S W Kwong, Yuan Ji, Aimin Wu, Jiani Wu, Zhishun Liu Abstract Background: Acupuncture is commonly used to treat degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis in Asian countries. However, rigorous data regarding the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for aging patients are currently lacking.  Methods: Eighty patients older than 50 years were assigned randomly to the acupuncture group or the noninsertive sham acupuncture for 24 treatments over an 8-week period. Measurements were obtained at baseline and 4 and 8 weeks of treatment; and 3 and 6 months after completion of treatment. The primary outcome was a change...
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Single Cupping Therapy Session Improves Pain, Sleep and Disability In Patients With Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate if a single session of real or placebo cupping therapy in patients with chronic LBP would be enough to temporarily reduce pain intensity and functional disability, enhancing their mechanical threshold and reducing local skin temperature. The outcome measures were Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), pressure pain threshold (PPT), Roland Morris disability questionnaire (RMDQ) and low back skin temperature. This is an experimental clinical trial; after examination (AV0), patients were submitted to real or placebo cupping therapy (15 minutes, bilaterally at the points BL23 (Shenshu), BL24 (Qihaishu) and BL25 (Dachangshu) and were revaluated...
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Does Integrative Medicine Reduce Prescribed Opioid Use for Chronic Pain? A Systematic Literature Review.

Abstract BACKGROUND Chronic pain (CP) is a major public health problem. Many patients with CP are increasingly prescribed opioids, which has led to an opioid crisis. Integrative medicine (IM), which combines pharmacological and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), has been proposed as an opioid alternative for CP treatment. Nevertheless, the role of CAM therapies in reducing opioid use remains unclear. OBJECTIVES To explore the effectiveness of the IM approach or any of the CAM therapies to reduce or cease opioid use in CP patients. METHODS An online search of MEDLINE and Embase, CINAHL, PubMed supp., and Allied and Complementary Medicine...
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Acupuncture versus propranolol in migraine prophylaxis: an indirect treatment comparison meta‑analysis

Abstract Background Propranolol is recommended as first-line treatment for preventing migraine attacks; acupuncture has not been compared with propranolol in a head-to-head trial. Objective To compare acupuncture with propranolol using indirect treatment comparison meta-analysis. Method We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Randomized controlled trials comparing acupuncture or propranolol with sham acupuncture, placebo, waiting-list control or usual care were included. We extracted information from the included trials using a standardized extraction form. The primary outcome was migraine episodes. The secondary outcomes included migraine days, migraine frequency, and adverse events. Results We included 19 RCTs (n =...
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High Temporal Summation of Pain Predicts Immediate Analgesic Effect of Acupuncture in Chronic Pain Patients-A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract Objectives This prospective cohort study explored whether two distinguished sensory parameters predicted acupuncture effects in chronic pain patients; namely high temporal summation of pain (TS) indicating spinal synaptic facilitation as well as a low vibration detection threshold (VDT) indicating a loss of Aβ-fiber function. Methods Pinprick induced TS and VDT were assessed by standardized, validated methods at the most painful body site and a pain free control site in 100 chronic pain patients receiving six acupuncture sessions as part of an interdisciplinary multimodal pain treatment (IMPT). Immediate change in pain intensity after the first acupuncture session (first treatment on...
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Effectiveness of Tai Chi on fibromyalgia patients: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Objective To identify empirical evidence on the effectiveness of Tai Chi in treating fibromyalgia (FM). Method We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the effectiveness of Tai Chi and standard care or conventional therapeutic exercise in patients with FM. PubMed, Medline, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database were searched for relevant studies published before May 2019. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated using the fibromyalgia impact questionnaire (FIQ), and the total score, pain score, sleep quality index, fatigue, depression, and quality of life were assessing among the patients. Results Six RCTs with 657 patients were included....
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Effectiveness of Acupunctureon Pain, Functional Disability, and Quality of Life in Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Hand: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by pain, functional disability, poor quality of life (QoL), high socioeconomic impact, and annual costs of over $56 billion in the United States. Acupuncture (AC) is widely in use; however, studies show severe methodological shortcomings, did not consider the functional diagnosis for the allocation of acupoints and their results showed no differences between verum and control groups. OBJECTIVE: The authors aimed to objectively assess the safety and efficacy of AC treatments for RA. METHODS: 105 RA patients with a functional diagnosis of a „Pivot syndrome“ or „Turning Point syndrome“ were randomly assigned to...
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Acupuncture for Cancer Pain and Related Symptoms

Abstract Cancer pain is one of most prevalent symptoms in patients with cancer. Acupuncture and related techniques have been suggested for the management of cancer pain. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN®) guidelines for adult cancer pain recommends acupuncture, as one of integrative interventions, in conjunction with pharmacologic intervention as needed. This review presents the latest available evidence regarding the use of acupuncture for cancer pain. It also provides “actionable” acupuncture protocols for specific cancer pain conditions and related symptoms in order to provide more clinically relevant solutions for clinicians and cancer patients with pain. These conditions include postoperative cancer...
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Acupuncture for analgesiain the emergency department: a multicentre, randomised, equivalenceand non-inferiority trial

Abstract OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess analgesia provided by acupuncture, alone or in combination with pharmacotherapy, to patients presenting to emergency departments with acute low back pain, migraine or ankle sprain. DESIGN: A pragmatic, multicentre, randomised, assessor-blinded, equivalence and non-inferiority trial of analgesia, comparing acupuncture alone, acupuncture plus pharmacotherapy, and pharmacotherapy alone for alleviating pain in the emergency department. Setting, participants: Patients presenting to emergency departments in one of four tertiary hospitals in Melbourne with acute low back pain, migraine, or ankle sprain, and with a pain score on a 10-point verbal numerical rating scale (VNRS) of at least...
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Acupuncture for Chronic Pain – Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis

Abstract Background Although acupuncture is widely used for chronic pain, there remains considerable controversy as to its value. We aimed to determine the effect size of acupuncture for 4 chronic pain conditions: back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headache, and shoulder pain. Methods We conducted a systematic review to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for chronic pain in which allocation concealment was determined unambiguously to be adequate. Individual patient data meta-analyses were conducted using data from 29 of 31 eligible RCTs, with a total of 17 922 patients analyzed. Results In the primary analysis, including all eligible RCTs, acupuncture...
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Acupuncture reduces the time from extubation to ‚ready for discharge‘ from the post anaesthesia care unit: results from the randomised controlled AcuARP trial

Acupuncture reduces the time to discharge following anaesthesia and gynaecological laparoscopy, reports a research team based in Switzerland and Germany. A randomised trial involving 75 women evaluated the effects of acupuncture combined with a standardised anaesthetic regimen compared to either acupressure, or standard anaesthesia alone. At the time of the pre-anaesthetic visit, 12–24 hours prior to surgery, patients in the intervention groups received a standardised treatment with either 12 press needles or adhesive press plasters at Renzhong DU-26, Shanzhong REN-17 and bilateral Hegu L.I.-4, Shenmen HE-7, Taichong LIV-3, Zusanli ST-36 and Neiguan P-6. Needles or plasters were left in place for...
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Impact of acupuncture treatment on the lumbar surgery rate for low back pain in Korea: A nationwide matched retrospective cohort study

Abstract Introduction Low back pain (LBP) is a globally prevalent disorder with high social significance. Invasive surgical procedures are increasingly being used to treat LBP despite a lack of solid evidence supporting their long-term benefits. This nationwide retrospective cohort study investigated the association between acupuncture treatment and lumbar surgery rate in patients with LBP. Methods Using the National Health Insurance Service Sample Cohort Database for 2002–2013, we identified newly diagnosed LBP patients in Korea between 2004 and 2010 and divided them into an acupuncture group and control group according to whether or not they received acupuncture. Propensity scores based on...
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Soforteffekt der Akupunktur auf die Muskelkraft

Hintergrund: Die Muskelkraft der Hände ist eine wichtige Voraussetzung für die Erfüllung der täglichen Verrichtungen. Außerdem ist sie ein wichtiger Parameter zum Erfassen der Stärke eines Menschen. Studienziel: Einschätzung der Antwort des Körpers anhand der Greifkraft der Hände bezüglich der Anwendung von Akupunktur. An der Studie hatten 73 gesunde Freiwillige, männlich und weiblich, teilgenommen. Es wurde eine Akupunkturgruppe (24 Personen), eine Sham-Akupunkturgruppe (Nadelung an anderen, möglichst wirkarmen Punkten, 25 Personen) und eine Kontrollgruppe (24 Personen) gebildet. Unmittelbar nach der Akupunktur konnte bei der Akupunkturgruppe eine signifikant höhere Muskelkraft in den Händen von 4,8 Kg-äquivalent festgestellt werden, bei der Sham-Gruppe eine unwesentliche...
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Elektroakupunktur kann den Schmerzmittelbedarf bei einer Endosonografie senken

In einer Doppelblindstudie lag während einer endoskopischen Ultraschalluntersuchung der selbstkontrollierte Verbrauch an Propofol und Alfentanil bei Patienten mit begleitender Elektroakupunkturbehandlung deutlich niedriger als in der Kontrollgruppe. Im Rahmen der Diagnostik bei Patienten mit Leber-Gallen-Problemen ist oftmals eine endoskopische Ultraschalluntersuchung (Endosonografie) erforderlich. Um die Untersuchung für die Betroffenen möglichst angenehm zu gestalten und sie erfolgreich durchführen zu können, werden den Patienten Beruhigungs- und Schmerzmittel verabreicht. Optimalerweise bewirkt die Medikation eine Schmerzlinderung und Beruhigung ohne vollständige Narkotisierung, welche eine Intubation und Beatmung des Patienten erforderlich machen würde. Auch unter einer fein abgestimmten Dosierung der Medikamente können diese jedoch noch einige Zeit nach...
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Akupunktur hilft bei Aromatasehemmer induzierten Gelenkschmerzen

DGP – Akupunktur konnte bei älteren Brustkrebspatientinnen Gelenkschmerzen mindern, die durch die Behandlung mit Aromatasehemmern hervorgerufen werden. Unklar bleibt, ob die Reduktion der Schmerzen durch die Akupunktur deutlich genug ist. Original Titel: Effect of Acupuncture vs Sham Acupuncture or Waitlist Control on Joint Pain Related to Aromatase Inhibitors Among Women With Early-Stage Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial Eine Antihormontherapie mit Aromatasehemmern führt bei Brustkrebspatientinnen häufig zu Gelenkschmerzen, die einen Abbruch der Therapie bedingen können. Ergebnisse von einigen kleineren Studien weisen darauf hin, dass Akupunktur diese Schmerzen verringern könnte. Brustkrebspatientinnen mit Gelenkschmerzen in 11 Forschungszentren untersucht US-amerikanische Forscher führten zu diesem Thema eine Studie durch, die an 11...
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Akupunktur kann Schmerzen bei Endometriose reduzieren

Original Titel: Effects of acupuncture for the treatment of endometriosis-related pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Die traditionelle chinesische Medizin (TCM) umfasst chinesische Arzneimitteltherapie, Akupunktur, Massagen, Bewegungsübungen und Ernährungslehre. Obwohl die Wirksamkeit der alternativen Heilverfahren immer wieder hinterfragt und angezweifelt wird, hat sich vor allem die Akupunktur auch in Deutschland etabliert. Eine Studie aus China hat jetzt die Wirksamkeit von Akupunktur bei Schmerzen durch Endometriose untersucht. Die Akupunktur liegt der Vorstellung der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin zu Grunde, bei der der Mensch entlang von Leitbahnen durch die Lebensenergie Qi durchflossen wird. Wird dieser Qi-Fluss gestört, können Schmerzen und Krankheiten auftreten. Bei der Akupunktur werden...
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A comparative study of efficacy between acupuncture therapy and drug therapy for primary trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of acupuncture therapy and carbamazepine therapy for primary trigeminal neuralgia. Methods: A total of 150 patients with primary trigeminal neuralgia treated in Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of Linyi Central Hospital from January 2010 to December 2016 were selected. They were divided into acupuncture group (n=75) and drug group (n=75). The patients in the acupuncture group received acupuncture based on the shape of trigeminal nerve once daily with 10 days as a treatment course. The results were observed after two treatment courses. Those in the drug group took 0.1 g carbamazepine three times daily...
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Electroacupuncture for Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Multicenter, Randomized, Assessor-Blinded, Controlled Trial

Abstract Objective: Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDN) is one of the most common complications of diabetes. In patients with PDN, greater pain intensity leads to poorer quality of life, sleep, function, and work productivity (1–3). According to the clinical practice guideline, electrical stimulation is probably effective and should be considered for the treatment of PDN (evidence level B) (4). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) for the management of PDN in patients with type 2 diabetes Methods: This multicenter, randomized, assessorblinded, controlled trial was conducted between June 2014 and March 2016...
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Battlefield Acupuncture in the Veterans Health Administration: Effectiveness in Individual and Group Settings for Pain and Pain Comorbidities

Abstract Objective: The Department of Veterans Affairs trained primary-care providers to deliver Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA), a subset of auricular acupuncture, to patients. However, little is known about BFA effectiveness in group or individual sessions or repeated administrations versus singular use. The aim of this study was to examine the use and effectiveness of BFA for back pain and four pain-comorbid conditions in group and individual sessions at a large Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the West Haven VA Medical Center, in West Haven CT. Between October 2016 and December 2017, 284...
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Acupuncture as Adjuvant Therapy for the Management of Cervical Dystonia

Abstract Objectives: There are no curative treatments for cervical dystonia (CD), therefore conventional management is aimed at pain relief and muscle relaxation. Many patients with CD use complementary and integrative medicine interventions to manage symptoms, yet there are limited data on the use of acupuncture for CD. The aim of the current study was to determine the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of adjuvant acupuncture. Materials and Methods: A pilot open-label study was conducted on acupuncture treatments as add-on therapy to botulinum-toxin injection sessions (3 months apart) in 5 subjects with chronic idiopathic CD. Six 1-hour acupuncture sessions were administered every...
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Acupuncture and Neural Mechanism in the Management of Low Back Pain – An Update

Abstract Within the last 10 years, the percentage of low back pain (LBP) prevalence increased by 18%. The management and high cost of LBP put a tremendous burden on the healthcare system. Many risk factors have been identified, such as lifestyle, trauma, degeneration, postural impairment, and occupational related factors; however, as high as 95% of the cases of LBP are non-specific. Currently, LBP is treated pharmacologically. Approximately 25 to 30% of the patients develop serious side effects, such as drowsiness and drug addiction. Spinal surgery often does not result in a massive improvement of pain relief. Therefore, complementary approaches are...
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Acupuncture after hemorrhoid Surgery reduces discomfort and complications

Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine researchers find acupuncture effective for hemorrhoid surgery postoperative relief. The research team integrated acupuncture into a standard hemorrhoidectomy postoperative care protocol. [1] Patients receiving both postoperative care and acupuncture in a combined treatment protocol had superior patient outcomes compared with patients receiving only postoperative care. The researchers conclude that the addition of acupuncture to a standard postoperative regimen improves outcomes following hemorrhoid surgery, including significant reductions of anal pain, swelling, and hematochezia (passage of fresh blood through the anus). Group Selection Process The study involved 60 patients at the proctology department of Nanjing Hospital...
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A Randomized Exploratory Study to Evaluate Two Acupuncture Methods for the Treatment of Headaches Associated with Traumatic Brain Injury

ABSTRACT Background Headaches are prevalent among Service members with traumatic brain injury (TBI); 80{44c7f096ae4a0f956ab9167e2bacde9c804851a57290d0086ec17557d44e93e0} report chronic or recurrent headache. Evidence for nonpharmacologic treatments, such as acupuncture, are needed. Objective: The aim of this research was to determine if two types of acupuncture (auricular acupuncture [AA] and traditional Chinese acupuncture [TCA]) were feasible and more effective than usual care (UC) alone for TBI–related headache. Materials and Methods Design: This was a three-armed, parallel, randomized exploratory study. Setting: The research took place at three military treatment facilities in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. Patients: The subjects were previously deployed Service members (18–69...
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Triple Acupuncture Alleviates Low Back Pain

Researchers find triple acupuncture combined with warm needle acupuncture safe and effective for the treatment of lower back pain. In a clinical investigation, Xianning Hospital researchers tested the efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of dorsal ramus syndrome, which is characterized by lower back pain, spasms, and radiculopathy. The results of the investigation reveal that triple acupuncture combined with warm needle acupuncture has an 80% total effective rate for the alleviation of dorsal ramus syndrome. Another group receiving standard acupuncture protocols without triple needling or warm needle stimulation achieved a 66.7% total effective rate. After spinal nerves pass through the...
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Pulsierendes Schröpfen als Therapieoption bei chronischem Rückenschmerz

Verschiedene Intensitäten einer Pulsationstherapie führten in einer Studie verglichen mit keiner Behandlung zu einer Verbesserung der Schmerzsituation und Beweglichkeit bei Patienten mit chronischen Beschwerden im Lendenwirbelbereich. Die Dosis ist jedoch entscheidend. Schröpfen, als eines der ältesten, überwiegend in Asien verwendeten Therapieverfahren, wird zur Ausleitung von Giftstoffen aus dem Körper, hauptsächlich aber zur Behandlung von Beschwerden der Muskulatur, des Gewebes und der Gelenke verwendet. Bei der modernen Form der pulsierenden Schröpftherapie (auch: Pulsationstherapie) wird basierend auf der Technik des trockenen Schröpfens mittels eines technischen Geräts Unterdruck über eine Pumpe erzeugt, dessen Intensität stufenweise regulierbar ist. Im Gegensatz zum blutigen Schröpfen tritt...
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Patterns of Energy Imbalance of the Meridians in Patients with Temporomandibular Dysfunction

ABSTRACT 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...
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Modified green dragon swaying its tail needling manipulation for treatment of knee osteoarthritis

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the difference in the effect of modified green dragon swaying its tail needling manipulation and common needling manipulations on the overall rating of pain of patients with knee osteoarthritis, and to evaluate the advantages of modified green dragon swaying its tail needling manipulation for. Methods Ninety-five patients with knee osteoarthritis were divided into 2 groups according to the random number table method with 48 patients in the modified green dragon swaying its tail group (group special manipulation, SM group for short) and 47 patients in the common acupuncture group (group convention needling, CN group for short),...
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Migräne in den Griff bekommen

Das wünschen sich alle, die regelmäßig von diesen heftigen Kopfschmerzen geplagt werden. Inwieweit Lymphdrainage oder Traditionelle Massage die Häufigkeit und Intensität der Attacken verhindern können, untersuchten Neurologen in einer randomisierten Studie. Migräne unterschiedlichster Ausprägung – mit und ohne Aura, Übelkeit, Erbrechen, Licht-, Geräusch- oder Geruchsüberempfindlichkeit – sowie unterschiedlicher Häufigkeit und Dauer beeinträchtigt bei nahezu jeder fünften Person den privaten und beruflichen Lebensalltag. Eine pharmakologische Prophylaxe führt bei etwa 50 % der Patientenzu einer Verringerung der Attacken. Neben Ausdauersport, Entspannungsverfahren, Biofeedback und Akupunktur werden als weitere nicht-pharmakologische Behandlungsmethoden Massage und Lymphdrainage zur Prävention von Migräneanfällen eingesetzt. Während die Effektivität der erstgenannten...
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Local acupuncture best for joint TMD, distal for muscle TMD

The authors of a Brazilian study have concluded that for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) involving joint components, local acupuncture is the most effective, while for TMD of muscular origin, distal needling are most effective. The researchers classified 68 patients depending on their presenting symptoms and divided them into groups: muscle TMD treated with acupuncture at local points (MUS-LP), muscle TMD treated with acupuncture at distal points (MUS-DP), joint and muscle TMD treated with LP (JOI-LP), and joint and muscle TMD treated with DP (JOI-DP). Local acupuncture points chosen according to TCM criteria for head and neck pain were Fengchi GB-20, Baihui...
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Langzeiteffekte von Akupunktur bei chronischen Schmerzen

Wie eine aktuelle Meta-Analyse zeigt, können Patienten bis zu einem Jahr nach der Akupunkturbehandlung von der schmerzlindernden Wirkung der Nadeltechnik profitieren. Auf der Basis bisher verfügbarer Daten aus der klinischen Forschung kann Akupunktur als wirksame therapeutische Maßnahme in der Behandlung von Schmerzereignissen im Rahmen chronischer Erkrankungen bezeichnet werden. Wie eine frühere Meta-Analyse des Forscherteams der Acupuncture Trialist Collaboration bereits ermittelte, erzielt Akupunktur im Vergleich mit Placebo-Akupunktur zwar nur kleine, aber signifikante Effekte. Im Vergleich mit keiner oder aber konventioneller Behandlung führt Akupunktur jedoch zu weitaus robusteren und größeren klinisch relevanten Effekten hinsichtlich des primären Endpunkts der Schmerzlinderung. [1] Insbesondere bei...
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Langanhaltende Behandlungseffekte durch Akupunktur bei chronischen Schmerzen

Es ist unklar, wie lange die Behandlungseffekte von Akupunktur aufrechterhalten werden können, nachdem die Behandlung beendet wurde. In der Studie von MacPherson et al. (2017) wurde untersucht, wie sich das Schmerzempfinden von Patienten nach Abschluss einer Akupunkturbehandlung entwickelt. Es wurden Patienten mit chronischen Schmerzen eingeschlossen und zwar Patienten mit muskuloskelettalen Schmerzen (unterer Rücken, Nacken, Schulter), Kniearthrose und Kopfschmerzen/Migräne. Es konnten die Ergebnisse aus 20 Studien mit 6.376 Patienten eingeschlossen werden. Die Auswertung der Ergebnisse zeigte, dass in Studien, die Akupunktur mit einer Kontrollgruppe (Warteliste, Standardbehandlung etc.) verglichen, die Effektstärke nach Beendigung der Behandlung geringfügig abnahm (0,011 SD alle 3 Monate,...
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Herbal formula helps prevent gout (Gicht)

A Chinese herbal formula has been shown to reduce serum uric acid (sUA) levels and prevent recurrence of acute gouty arthritis. In a randomised placebo-controlled trial, Chinese researchers evaluated the effects of compound tufuling oral liquid (CoTOL – Tu Fu Ling [Rhizoma Smilacis], Bi Xie [Rhizoma Dioscoreae], Jiang Huang [Rhizoma Curcumae Longae], Xi Xian Cao [Herba Siegesbeckiae], Yan Hu Suo [Rhizoma Corydalis], Yi Yi Ren [Semen Coicis], Sang Ji Sheng [Herba Taxilli], Yu Mi Xu [Stigma Maydis]) on 210 patients with gout over a 12-week treatment period. At the end of the 12-week treatment, the average decrease in serum uric...
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Elektroakupunktur gegen Kniearthrose – viel hilft mehr

Effektivere Linderung der Gelenkbeschwerden durch eine intensive Elektroakupunkturbehandlung Nach Schätzungen der Weltgesundheitsorganisation WHO leiden weltweit etwa 10 % der über 60-Jährigen an Arthrose. Eine Heilung dieser degenerativen Gelenkerkrankung ist bisher nicht möglich, jedoch gibt es durchaus Möglichkeiten die Symptome wie Schmerz und Gelenksteifigkeit zu lindern. Patienten wünschen sich verständlicherweise eine Behandlung möglichst frei von Nebenwirkungen. Elektroakupunktur stellt dabei eine gute Alternative zur medikamentösen Behandlung dar. Inwieweit die Reizstärke (Stromstärke) an den gesetzten Akupunkturnadeln einen Einfluss auf den Therapieerfolg hat, wurde jüngst an der Shanghai Traditional Medicine University untersucht [1]. Patienten mit Kniegelenksarthrose vom Schweregrad II bzw. III der Kellgren-Klassifikation wurden...
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Elektroakupunktur bei Arthrose

Die Elektroakupunktur ist eine Abwandlung der ’normalen‘ Akupunktur, bei der über die Nadeln noch zusätzlich schwache Ströme zur Anwendung kommen. Eine Studie untersucht, ob diese Behandlung die Schmerzen von älteren Menschen mit Arthrose lindern kann. Mit zunehmendem Alter entstehen bei vielen Menschen arthrotische Veränderungen in den Gelenken, die schmerzen und die Bewegung einschränken. Zur Schmerzreduktion werden zahlreiche konventionelle und komplementärmedizinische Behandlungen angewendet. Eine aktuelle Beobachtungsstudie untersucht (1), inwiefern die Elektroakupuntur die Schmerzen bei Arthrose lindern kann. 42 Senioren aus Indonesien im Alter von 50 oder mehr Jahren wurden in die Studie eingeschlossen. Die Hälfte der Patienten war übergewichtig. Zu Beginn...
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Electroacupuncture for the Treatment of Calcific Tendonitis. A Pilot Study

ABSTRACT Current treatment for calcific tendonitis consists of arm rest, antiinflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. If unsuccessful, a lot of clinicians suggest several physiotherapy modalities, such as shockwave therapy and electrotherapy. The purpose of our study was to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture, as a substitute for failed medical treatment in calcific tendonitis. In a pilot study, we prospectively followed 10 patients treated with electroacupuncture for calcific tendonitis who failed to respond to medical treatment. Its efficacy was assessed by evaluating the level of pain, the Beck Depression Inventory, the range of active elbow mobility, and by repeated radiological evaluation of the course of calcific deposits. All...
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Effect of bloodletting therapy at local myofascial trigger points and acupuncture at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points on upper back myofascial pain syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To observe the clinical efficacy of bloodletting therapy and acupuncture at Jiaji points for treating upper back myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), and compare this with lidocaine blocktherapy. METHODS A total of 66 upper back MPS patients were randomly assigned to either the treatment group or the control group in a 1∶1 ratio.The treatment group (n= 33) were treated with bloodletting therapy at local myofascial trigger points and acupuncture at Jiaji (EX-B 2) points; one treatment course consisted of five, single 20-min-treatments with a 2-day break between each treatment. The control group (n= 33) were treated with a lidocaine block...
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Ear acupuncture and hip pain

A study which compared auricular press needles inserted at specific points for hip pain (hip joint, lung, Shenmen, thalamus) with similar needles inserted in auricular non-points, in 61 patients one day before and for three days after total hip arthroplasty surgery, found that the true points group used 32% less analgesics than the non-point group. (Pain 2005; 114: 320-7). Quelle: www.jcm.co.uk
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Does Ear Acupuncture Have a Role for Pain Relief in the Emergency Setting? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Objective Ear acupuncture might be the form of acupuncture best suited to improving acute pain management in the emergency department (ED). The primary aim of this review was to assess the analgesic efficacy of ear acupuncture in the ED. Secondary outcomes included measures of patient satisfaction, adverse effects, cost, administration techniques, and reduction of medication usage. Methods Seven databases and Google Scholar were searched up to April 27, 2017, using MeSH descriptors for three overarching themes (ear acupuncture, pain management, and emergency medicine). Meta-analyses were performed in 3 comparator groups: (1) ear acupuncture versus sham; (2) ear acupuncture-as-adjunct to...
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I-shaped acupuncture therapy for treatment of cervical spondylosis

ABSTRACT Objective To observe the efficacy of I-shaped acupuncture therapy for treatment of cervical spondylosis. Methods I-shaped acupuncture therapy (penetration needling from Fēngchí (GB 20) to Fēngfû (GV 16), under the C3–C6 spinous process, Dàzhuī (GV 14), Jiānzhōngshù (SI 15), Jiānwàishù (SI 14), and I-shaped acupoint selection way) was adopted for treatment of 80 cases of cervical spondylosis, needling manipulation was conducted for once every 10 min, and the needles were retained for 30 min. The treatment was carried out for once a day, and treatment for 10 times was considered as 1 course of treatment. Results Sixty-seven patients were...
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Caffeine inhibits analgesic effect of acupuncture

Caffeine can inhibit the analgesic effect of acupuncture, according to animal studies carried out in Brazil. Mice subjected to plantar incision surgery were treated with both manual acupuncture and electro-acupuncture at the acupoint Sanyinjiao SP-6 after administration of acute or chronic doses of caffeine. Researchers found that acute pre-administration of caffeine completely reversed acupuncture-induced analgesia (AA) for both types of acupuncture. The investigators also used doses that mimicked the average daily caffeine consumption in both Western countries and China. The Western dose of caffeine (70mg/kg/day) administered for eight days in drinking water reversed AA, while the Chinese dose (4mg/kg/day) administered...
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Biggest ever acupuncture dataset proves that acupuncture works for chronic pain

An update of the landmark 2012 study by the international Acupuncture Trialists‘ Collaboration reinforces the evidence that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain and that its benefits cannot be explained solely in terms of placebo effects. The new individual patient data meta-analysis analysed data from an additional 13 trials, giving a total data set of 20,827 patients from 39 trials. Acupuncture was superior to both sham and no-acupuncture control for all four chronic pain conditions examined (back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headache and shoulder pain). Patients receiving acupuncture had less pain. When compared with sham,...
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Battlefield Acupuncture Effect on Chronic Sequelae of Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

ABSTRACT Background Since 2001, Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA), an auricular acupuncture protocol, has been used to treat members of the U.S. Military who have acute and chronic pain conditions. One of the many pain issues treated is the pain associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI), which may manifest anywhere in the body. Case A 65-year old man with a 6-year history of severe TBI was treated with BFA for back pain after signing an informed consent form. Results: This patient experienced resolution of his back pain, an unexpected recovery from most of the incurred cognitive sequelae, as well as from a...
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Analgesic Herbs

ABSTRACT A wide range of herbs for pain conditions are discussed, with detailed information on their safe clinical application. Aconitum spp. (aconite, fuzı) and a formula featuring it, Gosha-jinki-gan (Niu ´ Che She`nQı`Wa´n), are particularly good examples of powerful analgesics that are far too little used in North American prescribing. The global use of various species of aconite is particularly compelling. However, this herb should only be recommended by experienced clinicians (as with most of the other herbs discussed herein). Similarly, Clematis spp. (clematis, virgin’s bower) and Anemone spp. (pasque flower) of various types are used for pain around the...
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Akupunktur senkt Häufigkeit von Migräneattacken

In der Studie von Zhao et al. (2017) wurde untersucht, ob eine Behandlung mit Akupunktur zu einer langfristigen Prophylaxe von Migräneattacken beitragen kann. Dazu wurde die Wirkung von richtiger Akupunktur mit einer Schein-Akupunktur und einer Kontrollgruppe (Patienten auf der Warteliste für die Behandlung) verglichen. Die Studie (randomisiert, kontrolliert) dauerte insgesamt 24 Wochen lang an, dabei betrug die Behandlungsdauer 4 Wochen und die Nachbeobachtung umfasste 20 Wochen. Es waren 249 Patienten im Alter von 18 bis 65 Jahren in die Studie eingeschlossen, die 2- bis 8-Mal pro Monat an Migräne (ohne Aura) litten. Die Patienten in der Gruppe mit richtiger Akupunktur...
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Schmerz(mittel)-Reduktion nach Kniegelenksersatz mit nicht-medikamentösen Begleittherapien

Eine aktuelle Meta-Analyse überprüfte die Evidenz der fünf Therapieverfahren Passive Bewegung, Präoperative Bewegungstherapie, Kältetherapie, Elektrotherapie und Akupunktur. Weltweit zählt die totale Knie-Arthroplastie zu den häufigsten operativen Eingriffen. In Deutschland werden pro Jahr über 150.000 künstliche Kniegelenke implantiert. Diese sollen den beispielsweise von starker Arthrose betroffenen Patienten zu einem Leben ohne Schmerzen und mit mehr Mobilität verhelfen. Postoperativ bringt der Eingriff jedoch zunächst starke Schmerzen mit sich, die konventionell mit Analgetika wie Opioiden und Nicht-steroidalen Entzündungshemmern (NSAID) behandelt werden. Aufgrund des Risikos von Nebenwirkungen und einer Medikamenten-Abhängigkeit, insbesondere von Opioiden, wird eine Minimierung und Verkürzung der Einnahme starker Schmerzmittel angestrebt. Als...
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Akupunktur mit Elektrostimulation zur nachhaltigen Migräneprophylaxe

Eine vierwöchige Elektroakupunkturbehandlung reduzierte Migräneattacken ohne Aura in einer klinischen Studie effektiv, auch noch 20 Wochen nach Behandlungsende. Sowohl in China als auch in westlichen Ländern hat sich eine Akupunkturbehandlung gegen Migräne zunehmend durchgesetzt. Neben der Akutbehandlung ist auch der prophylaktische Einsatz der Traditionellen Nadeltechnik von Interesse. Insbesondere eine Akupunktur mit Elektrostimulation verspricht länger anhaltende Verbesserungen. Allerdings fielen die Studienergebnisse hinsichtlich einer Überlegenheit gegenüber einer Placebo-Behandlung bisher noch widersprüchlich aus. Dies könnte damit zusammenhängen, dass in den jeweiligen Studien Patienten mit unterschiedlichen Migränetypen behandelt wurden und dafür unterschiedlichste Akupunkturpunkte benutzt wurden. Akupunktur zwischen Mythos und Moderne Aus der Perspektive dieser...
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Acupuncture restores balance to brain regions affected by migraine

Acupuncture may help restore impaired homeostasis of the trigeminovascular pain pathway in migraines. In a collaboration between US and Chinese researchers, 100 migraine without aura (MwoA) patients and 46 matched healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Patients were randomised to four weeks of verum acupuncture, sham acupuncture or a waiting list. HCs had resting state fMRI scans at baseline, while patients underwent scans before and after treatment. Patients received 20 acupuncture sessions over a period of four weeks, using one of three acupuncture protocols (VA1 – Yanglingquan GB-34, Qiuxu GB-40 and Waiguan SJ-5; VA2 – Xiyangguan GB-33, Diwuhui GB-42 and Sanyangluo...
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Acupuncture Repairs Knee Arthritis Cartilage Damage

Acupuncture stimulates cartilage repair for patients with knee osteoarthritis. Using MRIs, researchers have quantified the therapeutic effects of acupuncture. Within four weeks, acupuncture successfully improves the condition of cartilage in the anterior medial and lateral tibial regions of the knee. In addition, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores document that acupuncture reduces pain and stiffness levels while simultaneously improving physical function. In a controlled trial (Zhang et al.), acupuncture was compared with the therapeutic benefits of physical therapy. The MRIs demonstrate that acupuncture improves cartilage in the knee region. Physical therapy did not stimulate cartilage repair. Pain,...
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Acupuncture relieves headache

Acupuncture enhances positive patient outcome rates for patients suffering from headaches. In separate and independent investigations, researchers have determined that acupuncture significantly boosts the effectiveness of occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) and levo-tetrahydropalmatine (l-THP) drug therapy. Since the late 1970s, neurosurgeons have implanted ONS devices at the base of the skull for the treatment of headaches. An electrical signal is generated by ONS devices to override pain. Researchers from Jilin University Hospital and Changchun Traditional Chinese Medicine University find that administering acupuncture together with ONS is significantly more effective than using only ONS as a standalone therapeutic modality. Independently, Sichuan Disabled...
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Acupuncture relieves disc herniation pain

Qi-guiding acupuncture relieves disc herniation pain and a special intensive silver acupuncture needle protocol relieves chronic lower back myofascial pain. Researchers find acupuncture effective for the treatment of lower back pain disorders. In a protocolized study from the Shanghai Jiaotong University Sixth People’s Hospital, researchers determined that a special type of manual acupuncture therapy, known as qi-guiding acupuncture, produces significant positive patient outcomes for lumbar intervertebral disc herniation patients. In related research from Xinping Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, investigators find acupuncture combined with moxibustion effective for the alleviation of lower back pain due to lumbodorsal myofascial pain syndrome. A...
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Acupuncture reduces tendon thickness in tennis elbow

Acupuncture can reduce pain and pathological thickness of the common extensor tendon (CET) in patients with lateral epicondylitis (LE). Ultrasound evaluation of the CET in a patient with LE may reveal increased tendon thickness, which correlates with the severity of the LE. Turkish clinicians randomly assigned 41 patients to acupuncture and control groups. All received conventional treatment, and the acupuncture group also received needling at six acupoints (an ashi point, Shousanli L.I.-10, Quchi L.I.-11, Chize LU-5, Hegu L.I.-4 and Weiguan SJ-5) for 25 minutes per session, two or three times a week for four weeks (a total of 10 sessions)....
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Acupuncture reduces pain of osteoporosis

German clinicians have found acupuncture to be effective in producing sustained, clinically relevant pain relief in patients with osteoporosis. In a sham-controlled study, 53 patients received 10 sessions of either verum or sham acupuncture treatment over five weeks. Verum acupuncture consisted of deep needling at specific points according to TCM principles (Shenshu BL-23, Dachangshu BL-25, Weizhong BL-40, Kunlun BL-60, Yanglingquan GB-34, Taixi KID-3 and Bai Hui DU-20, plus a maximum of five individual ah shi points), while sham acupuncture consisted of superficial needling at non-acupuncture points (located at least five centimetres away from the verum acupuncture points). Both groups experienced...
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Acupuncture Plantar Fasciitis Relief Confirmed

Acupuncture combined with herbal medicine foot baths is a proven and effective therapeutic method for the elimination of plantar fasciitis. Guangxi People’s Hospital researchers compared using only Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) foot baths as a standalone therapy with a combination of TCM foot baths and acupuncture. Compared with Chinese herbal medicine foot bath monotherapy, adding acupuncture treatments to the regimen of care significantly decreases pain and swelling while simultaneously reducing relapse rates. Plantar fasciitis involves pain and inflammation of the band of tissue running across the sole of the foot, the plantar fascia. A major cause of heel pain, many...
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Acupuncture more effective than painkillers for dental pain

Indian investigators have found that acupuncture is more effective for pain relief than analgesics in the treatment of pulpitis (inflammation of dental pulp tissue). A total of 157 patients were randomly assigned to three groups; real acupuncture with placebo drug, sham acupuncture with placebo drug, and sham acupuncture with ibuprofen. Acupuncture needles were inserted for 15-20 minutes at Hegu L.I.-4, Jiache ST-6, Xiaguan ST-7 and Yifeng SJ-17 on the same side as the dental pain. Needling was carried out at non-acupoints for sham acupuncture. Patients treated with acupuncture reported faster pain relief that was sustained over a longer period of...
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Acupuncture Knee Arthritis Cartilage Repair Discovery

Acupuncture stimulates knee osteoarthritis cartilage repair by regulating proteins TGF-β1 and IGF-1. Beijing University of Traditional Chinese medicine researchers determined that acupuncture accelerates articular cartilage repair in the osteoarthritic knee by inhibiting the overexpression of TGF-β1 and IGF-1. With multiple objective laboratory instruments measuring outcomes, the investigation also reveal that acupuncture smooths the surface of knee cartilage while regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. [1] Under the results section of this article, you will be able to read more about this groundbreaking discovery. Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) often presents with pain, limited mobility, and a reduction in quality of life. Pathologically, it...
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Acupuncture is a Potent Painkiller

Acupuncture is effective for the alleviation of musculoskeletal pain, headaches, shoulder pain, and arthritis related pain. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, NY) researchers conclude that the analgesic effects of acupuncture are superior to sham controls and the pain relief persists over time. The research team concludes that acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for chronic pain and referral to an acupuncturist is a reasonable treatment option. In a meta-analysis of 20,827 patients across 39 clinical trials, researchers determined that acupuncture’s pain relieving effects for patients with musculoskeletal pain, headaches, shoulder pain, and arthritis persist over time—with only a...
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Acupuncture improves subjective and objective outcome measures in fibromyalgia

Acupuncture may lead to long-term improvements in clinical outcomes and levels of of pain neuromediators in fibromyalgia (FM) patients, according to researchers from Turkey. Seventy-five women with FM were randomised to one of three kinds of acupuncture treatment; real acupuncture (RA), sham acupuncture (ShA) and simulated acupuncture (SiA). Treatments were applied twice weekly for four weeks. Serum serotonin values increased significantly after treatment in both RA and ShA, however the increase in the RA was significantly greater than in both of the other groups. Levels of substance P (the main pain neurotransmitter) decreased in the RA group, but increased in...
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Acupuncture Improves Knee Meniscus Repair

Researchers conclude that acupuncture increases the effectiveness of rehabilitation exercises after knee meniscus repair surgery. [1] Patients receiving acupuncture in a controlled clinical trial had less quadriceps atrophy, limping, locking, pain, and swelling than patients receiving only rehabilitation exercises. Patients receiving acupuncture also had significantly better range of motion, stability, and the ability to walk, jump, and climb stairs. Researchers from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University combined acupuncture with functional training exercises. Patients receiving both functional training exercises and acupuncture in a combined treatment protocol had superior patient outcomes compared with patients receiving only functional training exercises. The...
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Acupuncture helps with pain from spinal stenosis

Acupuncture can have a significant effect on pain and quality of life in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), according to a pilot case series carried out by Iranian researchers. Twenty-four patients with LSS who had exacerbation of pain with walking were randomly selected and all underwent 10 sessions of acupuncture over three weeks. Twenty-three needles were inserted per patient per session (Yaoyangguan DU-3, Mingmen DU-4 and Baihui DU-20, plus bilateral Shenshu BL-23, Dachangshu BL-25, Guanyuanshu BL-26, Yinmen BL-37, Weizhong BL-40, Zhibian BL-54, Chengshan BL-57, Hegu L.I.-4 and Kunlun BL-60). Comparisons of scores at baseline immediately after the treatment period...
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Acupuncture Heals Tennis Elbow, Stops Pain

Acupuncture is a proven and effective therapeutic method for the alleviation of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). Hubei Hanjiang Hospital researchers compared two Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) protocols. [1] One group used acupuncture plus moxa. The other group used electroacupuncture and rehabilitation training. Both treatment protocols were effective, with the second protocol outperforming the first. Let’s take a look at the results. About Lateral Epicondylitis Tennis elbow is a chronic aseptic inflammatory condition involving the muscles and tendons of the forearm. The origin of the extensor carpi ulnaris (muscle and tendon) becomes weakened or damaged from overuse or trauma. Tennis elbow...
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Acupuncture for the treatment of Frozen Shoulder

Acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for the alleviation of frozen shoulder. Also termed adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is characterized by shoulder pain and range of motion loss in the rotator cuff region. Arm movements become difficult and frozen shoulder often interferes with a peaceful night’s sleep. In a controlled experiment conducted at the Guangdong 999 Brain Hospital, researchers determined that acupuncture alleviates pain and restores range of motion to the shoulder for patients with frozen shoulder. Researchers measured the efficacy of electroacupuncture and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) as separate and combined treatment modalities. Both protocols achieved significant positive...
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Acupuncture for Pain and Nausea in the Intensive Care Unit: A Feasibility Study in a Public Safety Net Hospital

ABSTRACT Objectives To explore the feasibility and acceptability of providing acupuncture treatment to relieve pain and nausea symptoms in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Design Prospective feasibility study. Settings/Location: Public safety net hospital with a 20-bed mixed medical/surgical ICU. Subjects: Patients from all services admitted to the ICU from November 14, 2014 to April 2015. Interventions Three 20min acupuncture treatments given for consented patients who were experiencing pain and/or nausea, in addition to usual care. Outcome measures Primary outcomes assessed were the proportion of patients offered acupuncture who accepted it, their perceptions of the effects of acupuncture treatment on pain...
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Acupuncture for lumbar disc herniation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods Electronic databases were searched to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture for LDH. A meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 and the evidence level was assessed using GRADE methodology. Results Thirty RCTs involving 3503 participants were included in the study. Meta-analysis showed that acupuncture had a higher total effective rate than lumbar traction (RR=1.1, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.15; p<0.001), ibuprofen (RR=1.24, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.48; p=0.02), diclofenac sodium (RR=1.44, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.67; p<0.001) and meloxicam (RR=1.16, 95% CI 1.03 to...
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Acupuncture effective for acute burns

Acupuncture has positive medical, economical and psychological effects for patients suffering from acute burns, according to clinicians working in the Czech Republic. They report retrospective data acquired over three decades from 1008 burn patients who were treated with acupuncture in a hospital surgery ward. The acupuncture points used most often were Lieque LU-7, Hegu L.I.-4, Quchi L.I.-11 and Zusanli ST-36. Usually only one or two needles were used at a time. Acupuncture treatment was observed to lead to analgesia with diminished pain intensity, a more rapid healing process and improvements in final wound healing, with a reduction in reddening, pigmentation...
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Acupuncture beneficial for pain management following joint replacement

Acupuncture may be a useful adjunct to pharmacological pain management after total hip (THR) or total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. Clinicians from the US investigated data from a sample of 2,500 patients undergoing total joint replacement, who were offered elective postsurgical acupuncture (at no additional cost) as an adjunct therapy to opioids for pain management. There was an average 45% reduction in self-reported short-term pain following acupuncture (with 41% of patients reporting moderate/severe pain prior to receiving acupuncture, and only 15% experiencing moderate/severe pain after acupuncture). Acupuncture Provides Short-Term Pain Relief for Patients in a Total Joint Replacement Program. Pain...
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Acupuncture Beats Ibuprofen For Knee Arthritis

Researchers find acupuncture combined with tuina massage more effective for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis than ibuprofen. Across two independent studies, researchers made several important findings. One important discovery is that acupuncture plus tuina produces superior treatment outcomes compared with oral intake of ibuprofen (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Keep reading, you may find some shocking information about ibuprofen therapy that may make you reconsider long-term exposure to the drug. Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine researchers (Fan et al.) conclude that acupuncture plus tuina has a 90.0% total treatment effective rate. Ibuprofen achieved an 87.5% total...
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Acupuncture Beats Drugs For Fibromyalgia Relief

Acupuncture alleviates fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Researchers from multiple independent investigations conclude that acupuncture is an effective treatment modality for fibromyalgia patients. One study finds acupuncture effective for enhancing the therapeutic benefits of medications and other studies find acupuncture, as a standalone therapy, more effective than medications for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Let’s take a look at each study, how they achieved clinical results, and the therapeutic benefits associated with each treatment protocol. First, a brief summary about fibromyalgia syndrome will get us started. FMS is characterized by widespread pain, heightened sensitivity to pain upon pressure, fatigue, and insomnia. FMS may...
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Acupuncture beats botox and drugs for migraine

Acupuncture is more effective for treating chronic migraine and causes fewer side effects than either botox or drugs, report Iranian researchers. One hundred and fifty patients were randomly allocated to receive acupuncture, botox injections or drug therapy (sodium valproate) for three months. Subjects in the acupuncture group received thirty treatment sessions. The main acupuncture points used were Zulinqi GB-41, Fengchi GB-20, Toulinqi GB-15, Yangbai GB-14, Foubai GB-10, Shiaigu GB-8, Hegu L.I.-4, Taichong LIV-3, Waiguan SJ-5, Baihui DU-20 and M-HN-9 Taiyang, along with individualised points for associated symptoms. During the three months of the study, headache pain severity, number of migraine...
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Acupuncture at Kŏngzuì (孔最LU 6) for 76 cases of hemorrhoids

ABSTRACT Objective To observe the effect of acupuncture at Kŏngzuì (孔最LU 6) for hemorrhoids. Methods Seventy six cases of hemorrhoids patients, 19 cases were diagnosed with internal hemorrhoids, 25 cases were diagnosed with external hemorrhoids, 32 cases were diagnosed with mixed hemorrhoids , they were treated with acupuncture, Kongzui (孔最LU 6) was perpendicular inserted bilaterally with a depth of 0.5-1cun, and reducing manipulation was performed. Treatment of 24 days were given and the improvement of hemorrhage and pain, the reducement of size of hemorrhoids and the recurrence were compared before and after treatment to evaluate the clinical efficacy. Results Sixty...
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Acupuncture as good as NSAIDs for radiating pain from intervertebral disc pathology

Acupuncture is a promising therapeutic option for the management of radicular pain of discogenic origin, according to Turkish researchers. Eighty patients, referring with acute radicular pain of either either lumbar or cervical origin, were randomly assigned to receive either nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) therapy with tenoxicam (Mobiflex) or acupuncture. In patients with cervical discopathy, acupuncture was carried out at bilateral Weizhong BL-40, Fengchi GB-20 and ashi points 0.5 cun lateral to midline at the levels of C4-6 or C5-7. These patients also received intradermal needles at auricular points Shenmen and Cervical Vertebrae. In patients with lumbar discogenic pain, acupuncture needles were inserted bilaterally at Shenshu BL-23, Dachangshu BL-25, Ciliao BL-32, Weizhong BL-40...
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Acupuncture Ankylosing Spondylitis Relief Confirmed

Researchers conclude that acupuncture and herbal medicine provide relief for patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis characterized by inflammation of the spine, joints, tendons, or ligaments. Long-term, AS can lead to ankylosis, which is stiffening and often immobility caused by fusion of bones. Ankylosing spondylitis is categorized in Traditional Chinese Medicine in several domains: lower back pain, kyphosis, spinal rigidity. In the advanced stages of the illness when bone fusion is present, it is categorized as zhu jie yang (bamboo spine). Clinical trials at the Shaanxi Baoji Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital determined that acupuncture...
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Acupuncture And Herbs Quell Rheumatoid Arthritis

Researchers find warm needle acupuncture effective for alleviating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The same investigation reveals that a modified herbal formula prescription of Juan Bi Tang is also effective. The study’s objective data also demonstrates that both approaches to patient care produce significant positive patient outcomes. Acupuncture and the herbal formula produced significant reductions in rheumatoid factors. These are substances in the bloodstream that lead to pathological autoimmune responses, causing the body to attack its own tissues. Rheumatoid factors are often elevated in rheumatoid arthritis patients and a reduction of these factors is correlated with reductions in systemic inflammation. Two important...
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Acupuncture adds benefit to frozen shoulder treatment

Distal acupuncture needling results in immediate pain reduction in patients with adhesive capsulitis (AC) and adding acupuncture to conservative therapy for the condition results in shorter recovery times. In this German randomised study, 60 volunteers with primary AC were assigned to acupuncture with press tack needles or placebo press tacks.  Thirty-four volunteers subsequently received normal acupuncture plus conservative therapy in an open follow-up clinical application, while 13 volunteers received conservative therapy without acupuncture. Acupuncture treatment was performed using distal points. An immediate improvement of 3.3 points in shoulder pain score was seen in the press tack needle group compared with...
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Acupressure speeds up recovery of ankle sprain

Acupressure can improve recovery after acute ankle sprain, leading to shortened disability time, say Chinese clinicians. A total of 62 patients with acute ankle sprains were were randomised to either standard treatment (ST), standard treatment plus acupressure (AP) or standard treatment plus mock acupressure (mock AP). Acupressure treatment consisted of ten minutes of pressure at Yongquan KID-1 on the affected foot, along with pressure at a tender point on the thenar eminence of the contralateral hand. The results showed that the mean volumetric measurement of the foot, ankle and lower leg (a measure of swelling) in the AP group decreased...
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Acupuncture Painkilling Effect Found

Quelle (13 JANUARY 2017): http://www.healthcmi.com Acupuncture is effective for pain relief. Researchers from the University of South Florida (Tampa) and the Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Fuzhou) document that acupuncture alleviates pain, in part, by regulation of microglial cells. These are non-neural cells that comprise part of the central nervous system structure. Scientists already knew that microglial cells act as macrophages at sites of damaged central nervous system tissue. The research team (Lin et al.) from the University of South Florida (Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences) along with researchers from the Fujian University of...
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Acupuncture reduces pain in trigeminal neuralgia

Acupuncture can reduce pain and medication use in patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia (ITN). In a longitudinal case-control study, Brazilian researchers compared 30 healthy subjects with 60 ITN patients, who were randomly assigned to receive acupuncture, sham acupuncture or drug treatment (carbamazepine). Patients in the acupuncture group underwent 10 weekly sessions of verum acupuncture. Needles were applied at Hegu 4 L.I.-4, Sanjian L.I.-3 and Neiting ST-44 for all patients, plus other points according to the trigeminal nerve branch affected in each individual (ophthalmic branch – Cuanzhu BL-2, Yangbai GB-14 and Yuyao M-HN-6; maxillary branch – Sibai ST-2, Juliao ST-3 and...
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Acupuncture reduces median nerve swelling in carpal tunnel

Acupuncture results in both clinical and morphological improvement of the median nerve at the wrist in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) according to researchers from Turkey. Forty-five limbs of 27 female patients were randomly divided into acupuncture and control groups. All patients used a night wrist splint, and patients in the acupuncture group received additional needling at nine acupuncture points (Daling P-7, Ximen P-4, Neiguan P-6, Laogong P-8, Qingling HE-2, Shenmen HE-7, Shaofu HE-8, Taiyuan LU-9 and Quchi L.I.-11). Acupuncture treatment was applied two or three times a week for four weeks (a total of 10 sessions). While symptom...
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