Acupuncture for Stroke/Apoplexy: Effectiveness and treatment options

Introduction:

At a time when conventional treatments are reaching their limits, alternative approaches like acupuncture are gaining interest, especially when it comes to complex neurological conditions like stroke. This disease, which suddenly affects the brain and causes a kind of stroke, requires a holistic approach to treatment.

Apoplexy and treatment challenges:

Stroke can have serious consequences for a person's quality of life and daily activities. The goal of treatment is to minimize the damage and restore as much function as possible. Unfortunately, traditional treatments are not always sufficient, necessitating new approaches.

Acupuncture as a promising treatment method:

Acupuncture has shown promising results in the treatment of stroke. Clinical studies suggest that acupuncture can improve recovery, reduce after-effects and increase the patient's quality of life.

Research: Acupuncture and its effect on stroke

Studies have shown positive results with acupuncture treatment of stroke. A clinical study published in the journal "Stroke" in 2005 conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating acupuncture for stroke rehabilitation. The review found that acupuncture significantly improved various functional outcomes in stroke patients, including motor function, activities of daily living and neurological outcomes, compared to conventional therapies alone.

Another study, published in "Neurological Research" in 2018, explored the mechanisms behind the neuroprotective effects of acupuncture in stroke. It suggested that acupuncture may exert its therapeutic effects through modulation of neuroinflammation, promotion of neurogenesis, and enhancement of neuroplasticity, which are crucial processes in stroke rehabilitation

While this evidence is promising, it is important to note that more research is still needed to understand acupuncture's full potential and optimal use in stroke treatment. Future studies should focus on larger and more comprehensive studies that can provide more precise guidelines on how acupuncture can best be implemented as part of a holistic approach to the treatment of stroke.

Acupuncture treatment: underlying mechanisms and potential effects

Acupuncture is a complex practice with different theoretical explanatory models for its effect on the body. While the precise mechanisms behind acupuncture treatment of apoplexy (stroke) are still being investigated, there are several potential ways in which acupuncture can affect the body's physiology and thereby regulate disease progression:

Neuroprotective effects : Acupuncture has been shown to have neuroprotective properties by regulating the expression of neurotrophic factors, such as nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). These factors play an important role in the maintenance of the nervous system and may help prevent progressive neurodegeneration and protect against further damage to the brain after a stroke.

Anti-inflammatory effects : Research suggests that acupuncture can modulate inflammatory processes in the brain by reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the release of anti-inflammatory mediators. This can help dampen the neuroinflammatory response that occurs after a stroke, thereby reducing tissue damage and promoting the healing process.

Regulation of neurotransmitters : Acupuncture points are closely connected to the nervous system and can influence the release and activity of neurotransmitters, such as glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). By regulating neurotransmitter balance, acupuncture may improve communication between neurons and decrease excitotoxicity, as well as promote neuroprotection after stroke.

Promotion of neuroplasticity : Acupuncture can stimulate neuroplastic mechanisms in the brain, which can lead to the formation of new synaptic connections and neural circuits. This can help compensate for the loss of neurons and preserve or restore cognitive functions and motor skills in patients who have had a stroke.

These potential mechanisms are still under research, and further studies are needed to understand the full effect of acupuncture on stroke. By integrating this knowledge into future research, we can gain a deeper understanding of how acupuncture can be an effective treatment option for patients who have had a stroke.

Future perspectives:

Acupuncture is emerging as a promising treatment method for stroke, but further research is needed to understand its full potential. It is crucial for both patients and healthcare professionals to consider acupuncture as a complementary treatment and support continued research in the field.

References:

Zhang, S. H., Liu, M., Asplund, K., & Li, L. (2005). Acupuncture for acute stroke. Stroke. Read more

Y Xing, M Zhang, WB Li, F Dong, F Zhang (2018) Mechanisms involved in the neuroprotection of electroacupuncture therapy for ischemic stroke - - Frontiers in Neuroscience, Read more

NLi,H Wang,HLiu,LZhu, Z Lyu, J Qiu (2023) The effects and mechanisms of acupuncture for post-stroke cognitive impairment:progress and prospects in Neuroscience, 2023 Read more

L Wang, XT Su, Y Cao, NN Yang, XW Hao (2022) Potential mechanisms of acupuncture in enhancing cerebral perfusion of ischemic stroke in Neurology, 2022 Read more