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  • Perspective Article2024-08-31
    Abstract

    Recently, several previously undiscussed concerns in acupuncture research have been brought to light. Among these, the core issue stems from the ambiguity surrounding the identity of acupoints. Hence, the question “What is the identity of acupoints?” remains of particular importance in acupuncture research. To answer this question, we reviewed the original concept of acupoints explained in Oriental medicine, from which acupuncture treatment originated, and examined scientific research on acupuncture and acupoints. We then proposed a perspective on the identity of acupoints and speculated about a possible reason for their elusive nature: qi, which congregates at and flows in and out of acupoints, might be bioelectricity, making these points inherently difficult to measure anatomically or histologically. Consequently, acupoints are suggested to be spaces where bioelectricity congregates, thus inevitably exhibiting electrical characteristics.

  • Systematic Review Protocol2024-08-31

    The Effectiveness and Safety of Yi Shen Juan Bi Pill on Rheumatoid Arthritis: a Protocol for Systematic Review and/or Meta-Analysis

    Gyoungeun Park1, Jeong-Hyun Moon1, Seo-Hyun Park2, Joo-Hee Kim3, Byung-Kwan Seo4, Seung-Deok Lee5, Won-Suk Sung6,*
    J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2024; 17(4): 116-122 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2024.17.4.116
    Abstract

    Importance: The Yi Shen Juan Bi (YSJB) pill has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with several studies reporting its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to prevent bone destruction. However, the lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness and toxicity of individual components of YSJB limits its widespread use.Objective: This protocol outlines a systematic review and/or meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of YSJB.Data Resources: We will search worldwide electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, CiNii, J-STAGE, KoreaMed, Korean Medical Database, Korean Studies Information Service System, National Digital Science Library, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, and Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System. In addition, we will conduct manual searches, and, if necessary, contact authors directly. The search will cover publications until June 2024.Study Selection: We will select randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compare the use of YSJB for the treatment of RA against other treatments.Study Extraction and Synthesis: Data from the selected RCTs will be extracted, including sample size, patient characteristics, intervention details, and outcome measures. We will perform a meta-analysis using Review Manager software.Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s): The primary outcome measures will include disease activity scores such as effective rate, swollen joint count, tender joint count, and morning stiffness. Secondary outcome measures will include blood test results and adverse events.Results: The results will reveal the effectiveness and safety of YSJB for the treatment of RA.Conclusions and Relevance: The findings will provide an evidence-based review of the use of YSJB for RA.S.

  • Review Article2024-08-31
    Abstract

    Importance: We compile and analyze ancient literature related to Baihui (GV20) moxibustion and summarize the development of its ancient clinical application.Observations: The Chinese Medical Classic (5th edition) was used as the search source to screen and organize articles related to Baihui moxibustion to establish a database. We created indexing norms according to study characteristics and indexed books, dynasties, literary styles, disease key words, matching acupoints, combinations, moxibustion amounts, and moxa cone sizes. SPSS version 24.0 software was used to calculate the index results. A total of 320 articles that met the requirements were finally included and were attributed to 99 ancient books, spanning from the Western Han Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. A total of 45 keywords were used for disease evidence: the most frequent occurrences were internal medicine (primary category), limb meridians (secondary category), and head diseases (specific patterns).Conclusions and Relevance: Baihui moxibustion has been updated and developed in the literature over the ages, and the method of Baihui moxibustion is diverse. The main treatment rule of Baihui moxibustion considers the whole body and close treatment of partial diseases. Baihui moxibustion also has the rule of following meridian indications, with treatment based on syndrome differentiation and compatible application. Baihui moxibustion alone has a relatively strong effect of raising yang and lifting the sunken, which can treat the sinking of qi and deficiency.

  • Research Article2024-08-31

    Effect of Acupoint Catgut Embedding at Yanglingquan (GB34) on the Bile Metabolism of Patients with Choledocholithiasis after Surgery

    Lei Li1, Xiaofan Ji2, Xiaoyong Rao2, Dewei Luo2, Qiping Mao2, Hui Du2, Haihong Fang1,*, Hui Ouyang2,*, Yuan Zhang3,*
    J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2024; 17(4): 133-140 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2024.17.4.133
    Abstract

    Importance: Choledocholithiasis, or bile duct gallstones, is effectively treated with surgery, which does not prevent relapse. A common adjuvant therapy is the stimulation of the Yanglingquan point (GB34). Acupoint catgut embedding (ACE), an acupoint stimulation therapy, may be a better treatment for choledocholithiasis.Objectives: To investigate the effect of ACE in stimulating GB34 on bile metabolism and its possible mechanism via metabonomics.Methods: In this study, we used ultrahigh performance liquid chromatographyquadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) to analyze the changes in bile metabolites, metabolic pathways, and liver function indicators in 16 patients with choledocholithiasis before and after ACE stimulation.Results: We identified 10 metabolites that exhibited significant differences in the bile before and after ACE, six of which significantly increased and four that significantly decreased. Moreover, six liver function indicators showed a downward trend. We identified related metabolic pathways as glycerophospholipid metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, and the citrate cycle (TCA cycle).Conclusions and Relevance: This study shows that ACE stimulation of GB34 can effectively help treat choledocholithiasis, which may be clinically applicable to ACE.

  • Clinical Study Protocol2024-08-31

    Effect of Dry Needling Plus Static Stretching on Plantar Flexors Spasticity in Chronic Stroke Patients

    Mahdi Esmaeeli1, Nastaran Ghotbi1,*, Kazem Malmir1, Noureddin Nakhostin Ansari1,2, Pablo Herrero3, Shohreh Jalaei1, Elham Loni4, Sajede Mazidi1
    J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2024; 17(4): 141-148 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2024.17.4.141
    Abstract

    Importance: Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide and is often accompanied by complications such as spasticity. Static stretching (SS) is a common physiotherapy intervention for reducing spasticity, whereas dry needling (DN) is a novel approach. However, the combined effects of DN and SS on spasticity have not been thoroughly investigated. Given the pivotal effect of spasticity on daily activities, mitigating spasticity can significantly contribute to restoring patient independence.Objective: This study will explore the impact of DN plus SS on spasticity, alpha motor neuron excitability, overall function, and quality of life in patients with chronic stroke.Design, Setting, and Population: A double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial will be conducted in patients with post-stroke spasticity in the plantar flexor muscles. Twentyeight participants will be randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group. The intervention group will receive DN (60s × 3 days/week; 1 week) plus SS (20 min × 5 days/ week; 1 week). The control group will undergo sham DN (60s × 3 days/week; 1 week) and SS (20 min × 5 days/week; 1 week).Exposures: DN plus SS or sham DN plus SS.Main Outcomes and Measures: Both groups will be assessed at baseline, immediately post-treatment, and after 1 week of follow-up. Outcome measures will include the Modified Modified Ashworth Scale, H-reflex latency, Hmax/Mmax ratio, active and passive ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, timed up and go test, and the EuroQol questionnaire.Results: Results from this randomized, sham-controlled study will provide evidence for the effectiveness of DN in combination with SS for spasticity.Conclusions and Relevance: The additional impact of DN in conjunction with SS, a widely used method for reducing muscle tone, remains unclear and warrants investigation. This study, with a high level of evidence, aims to address this knowledge gap.

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Aims & Scope

The Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies is a bimonthly, peer-reviewed, open access journal featuring high-quality studies related to basic and clinical acupuncture and meridian research. of integrative biomedical research and.… + more

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Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
Vol.17 No.4
August, 2024

pISSN 2005-2901
eISSN 2093-8152

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Most Popular Articles

    • Brief Report2023-12-31
      Abstract

      Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is an important public health issue in India. This study was performed to determine the impact of acupuncture at the GB39, BL17, and LR13 points on hemoglobin levels, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and red cell distribution width (RDW) in people with IDA. One hundred women with IDA were randomly allocated to the acupuncture group (AG) or placebo control group (PCG). For 30 minutes per day, daily for 2 weeks, the AG received acupuncture at GB39, BL17, and LR13, while the PCG received needling at non-acupuncture points. Outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention. We found a significant increase (p < 0.001) in hemoglobin level (AG 10.39-11.38 g/dl, effect size 0.785; PCG 10.58-10.40 g/dl, effect size 0.191), MCH (AG 25.69-27.50 fl, effect size 0.418; PCG 27.43-27.23 fl, effect size 0.058), and RDW (AG 15.12-16.41 fl, effect size 0.626; PCG 14.91-14.94 fl, effect size 0.017) in the AG compared to the PCG. Results suggest that needling at the GB39, BL17, and LR13 acupuncture points is more effective in treating people with IDA than needling at non-acupuncture points.

    • Brief Report2022-12-31
      Abstract

      A patient with bradycardia and an idioventricular rhythm was observed. According to cardiologists, there is no reliable drug treatment for bradycardia with an idioventricular rhythm; instead, the sole treatment is a pacemaker. In the course of this case, it was shown that acupuncture can restore the heart rhythm from bradycardia to normocardia, and from idioventricular with third-degree atrioventricular node block and an average heart rate of 34 BPM, to normal sinus rhythm with a heart rate of 71 BPM. Additionally, at the end of the treatment, the patient’s number of episodes of ventricular extrasystole decreased 36 times (3289 versus 91 episodes). These results show that research on this technique should be continued.

    • Review Article2023-12-31
      JAMS

      Acupuncture in Sports Medicine

      George G.A. Pujalte1,2,*, Michael Malone3, Akhil Mandavalli1, Davong David Phrathep4, Neil P. Shah5, Adam I. Perlman6
      J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2023; 16(6): 239-247 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2023.16.6.239
      Abstract

      Acupuncture is gaining popularity and wider acceptance as a treatment modality within the field of sports medicine. Our objective was to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature pertaining to acupuncture in sports medicine to shed light on approaches utilized in acupuncture while revealing its personalized nature and its impact on athletes’ preparation, performance, and recovery. We evaluated acupuncture research in the context of medicine and sports-related injury treatment, assessing its impact on athletic performance across demographics of athletes. Athletes participating in most sports have shown positive outcomes from acupuncture interventions. Acupuncture improves peak oxygen levels, maximum heart rate, delayed-onset muscle soreness, pain, swelling, explosive force production, and joint mobility. Furthermore, the efficacy of acupuncture appears to be similar regardless of age and sex. Lastly, the acceptance of acupuncture is influenced by cultural factors, with Western and traditional East Asian cultures exhibiting distinct perspectives on its rationale and mechanisms of action. Traditional East Asian acupuncturists typically employ qi and meridian theories in their acupuncture practices, with the recent incorporation of Western concepts. Acupuncture shows promise as an effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain and neuropathies in athletes across different age groups and for addressing injuries in various sports. Our comprehensive review will enhance our understanding of acupuncture’s potential as a complementary or distinct therapeutic approach compared to conventional therapies. Additionally, our review explores its specific applications within different sports and delves into the cultural dimensions involved in integrating this practice into modern sports medicine.

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    • Review Article2023-12-31
      JAMS

      Acupuncture in Sports Medicine

      George G.A. Pujalte1,2,*, Michael Malone3, Akhil Mandavalli1, Davong David Phrathep4, Neil P. Shah5, Adam I. Perlman6
      J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2023; 16(6): 239-247 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2023.16.6.239
      Abstract

      Acupuncture is gaining popularity and wider acceptance as a treatment modality within the field of sports medicine. Our objective was to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature pertaining to acupuncture in sports medicine to shed light on approaches utilized in acupuncture while revealing its personalized nature and its impact on athletes’ preparation, performance, and recovery. We evaluated acupuncture research in the context of medicine and sports-related injury treatment, assessing its impact on athletic performance across demographics of athletes. Athletes participating in most sports have shown positive outcomes from acupuncture interventions. Acupuncture improves peak oxygen levels, maximum heart rate, delayed-onset muscle soreness, pain, swelling, explosive force production, and joint mobility. Furthermore, the efficacy of acupuncture appears to be similar regardless of age and sex. Lastly, the acceptance of acupuncture is influenced by cultural factors, with Western and traditional East Asian cultures exhibiting distinct perspectives on its rationale and mechanisms of action. Traditional East Asian acupuncturists typically employ qi and meridian theories in their acupuncture practices, with the recent incorporation of Western concepts. Acupuncture shows promise as an effective treatment for musculoskeletal pain and neuropathies in athletes across different age groups and for addressing injuries in various sports. Our comprehensive review will enhance our understanding of acupuncture’s potential as a complementary or distinct therapeutic approach compared to conventional therapies. Additionally, our review explores its specific applications within different sports and delves into the cultural dimensions involved in integrating this practice into modern sports medicine.

    • Review Article2022-10-31

      Acupuncture for Osteoporosis: a Review of Its Clinical and Preclinical Studies

      Yimiao Tian1,†, Lili Wang2,†, Tianshu Xu1, Rui Li1, Ruyuan Zhu1, Beibei Chen1, Hao Zhang1, Bingke Xia1, Yiwen Che3, Dandan Zhao1,*, Dongwei Zhang1,*
      J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2022; 15(5): 281-299 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2022.15.5.281
      Abstract

      Acupuncture has gained growing attention in the management of osteoporosis (OP). However, a comprehensive review has not yet been conducted on the efficacy and challenges of acupuncture in preliminary research and clinical trials. Therefore, an extensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed), CNKI (www.cnki.net), and Web of Science, for studies published from the beginning of 2000 to the end of May 2022. Combinations of synonyms for OP, acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, clinical trial, preclinical study, and animal experiments were searched. A total of 290 papers were consulted, including 115 reviews, 109 clinical observations, and 66 preclinical studies. There is accumulating evidence to support the beneficial role of acupuncture in preserving bone quality and relieving clinical symptoms based on clinical and preclinical investigations. The top ten most commonly used acupoints are BL23, ST36, BL20, BL11, CV4, GV4, SP 6, KI3, BL18, and GB39. The underlying mechanisms behind the benefits of acupuncture may be linked with the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (adrenal) axis and activation of the Wnt/β-catenin and OPG/RANKL/RANK signaling pathways. In summary, strong evidence may still come from prospective and well-designed clinical trials to shed light on the potential role of acupuncture in preserving bone loss. Future investigations are needed to explore the potential underlying mechanisms, long-term clinical efficacy, and compliance of acupuncture in OP management.

    • Research Article2022-12-31

      Comparison of the Effects of Myofascial Meridian Stretching Exercises and Acupuncture in Patients with Low Back Pain

      Dilek Eker Büyükşireci1,*, Nesrin Demirsoy1, Setenay Mit2, Ersel Geçioğlu2, İlknur Onurlu1, Zafer Günendi1
      J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2022; 15(6): 347-355 https://doi.org/10.51507/j.jams.2022.15.6.347
      Abstract

      Background: Acupuncture and myofascial meridians show great anatomical and clinical compatibility.Objectives: We aimed to compare the effects of myofascial meridian stretching exercises and acupuncture in patients with low back pain.Methods: We randomized 81 subjects with acute/subacute low back pain into three groups: an acupuncture (A) group, a myofascial meridian stretching (MMS) group, and a control (C) group. We recorded the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Roland- Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMQ) scores at baseline and weeks two and six. We evaluated posterior pelvic tilt and transversus abdominis muscle strenghth with a pressure biofeedback unit, back extensor muscle strength by the Sorenson test, and lumbar range of motion (ROM) with an inclinometer. Group A received acupuncture (BL 57 and BL 62 acupoints) and stretching exercises according to the posterior superficial line were applied to the MMS group.Results: Improvements in the NRS score were more prominent in group A than in group C (p = 0.004). The RMQ score improvement between baseline and weeks two and six was more prominent in groups A and MMS (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, respectively). The Sorenson test showed significant improvement between the baseline and week two in groups A and MMS (p = 0.004, p < 0.001, respectively). The increase in lumbar ROM measurement in the MMS group between baseline and week two was significantly higher than in groups A and C (p = 0.009, p < 0.001, respectively).Conclusion: Stretching exercises according to the myofascial meridian system and acupuncture contributed to improved symptoms in the first two weeks in patients with acute/subacute low-back pain.

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