KLINISK NEUROAKUPUNKTUR

Peder Bo Christensen

Acupuncture as a Treatment for Angina Pectoris: A Review of Research and Opportunities

Introduction:
Angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart, presents a significant challenge in modern medicine. Traditional treatment methods such as medication and interventional procedures have limited success in improving symptoms and preventing future attacks. Therefore, there is growing interest in alternative treatment options like acupuncture to manage symptoms and potentially improve patients' quality of life. This article examines current research and the potential applications of acupuncture in the treatment of angina pectoris.

Angina Pectoris and the Need for Effective Treatment:
Angina pectoris affects millions of people worldwide, resulting in severe chest pain and functional impairment. Despite extensive research, there is still a need for more effective treatment options to relieve symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.

Acupuncture as a Treatment Form:
Acupuncture has shown potential benefits in the treatment of angina pectoris. Several clinical trials and observational studies have suggested that acupuncture may improve blood flow, reduce pain, and alleviate symptoms in patients with angina pectoris.

Evidence for Acupuncture Treatment:
Several studies have shown promising results. Among these are randomized controlled trials demonstrating improvement in pain intensity and quality of life in patients after acupuncture treatment.

Effect of Acupuncture:
The precise mechanisms behind acupuncture's effect on angina pectoris are not fully understood. However, research suggests that acupuncture may help increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote the release of the body's natural pain-relieving substances.

Perspectives:
Acupuncture appears to be a promising treatment method for angina pectoris, with research findings suggesting improvements in symptoms and quality of life in patients. While more research is still needed, these findings provide hope for those suffering from angina pectoris and seeking alternative and complementary treatment options.

References:

Li, J., Zhang, J., Yan, H., Li, S., Jin, X., Zhang, S., ... & Wang, L. (2019). Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for patients with chronic peripheral arterial disease: A multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 25(10), 1017-1025.
Zhang, R., Lao, L., Ren, K., & Berman, B. M. (2014). Mechanisms of acupuncture-electroacupuncture on persistent pain. Anesthesiology, 120(2), 482-503.
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