How does acupuncture work? Research shows that acupuncture alters brain activities.

-
Acupuncture is originated from China thousands years ago and has been used since. It is now more popular than ever in all over the world. However mechanisms of acupuncture on the central nervous system (CNS) still remain unclear.

New techniques are invented to study brain including Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Electroencephalography (EEG), and Evoked Potentials (EP). fMRI can used to measure the brain's neuronal activity and the resulting regional changes in metabolism and circulation.PET can be used to measure the brain's regional blood flow, oxygen, or glucose metabolism and reflect the activity in the according brain region. EEG is used to measure brain activity. EP measurement reflects the number of cortical cells activated and the intensity of the stimulus. These techniques are applied to acupuncture research. Using these technologies, researchers are able to examine the acupuncture process in the brain noninvasively and provide scientific evidences how acupuncture works.

Using biochemical approach, researchers found that acupuncture analgesia might be induced by the release of endogenous opioids, as well as by modulating other signalling systems such as the adrenergic system/the serotonin signalling system/the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid/AMPA/kainate signalling system etc. Recently by using neuroimaging techniques researchers found that acupuncture modulates brain networks such as brain resting state networks; acupuncture modulates a wide network of brain areas including cortical, subcortical/limbic, and brainstem areas; acupuncture can enhance functional connectivity among different brain regions.

References

Scheffold BE et al Evid Based Complement Alternat Med (2015) 2015:641742
Location: Union Ct, Richmond TW9 1AA, UK

Popular posts from this blog

The Connection Between Facial Expression Muscles and Wrinkles: Understanding the Aging Process

-
Introduction: Facial expressions are an integral part of human communication, allowing us to convey a wide range of emotions and connect with others on a deeper level. However, over time, the repeated contraction of facial muscles can contribute to the formation of wrinkles. In this article, we will explore the relationship between facial expression muscles and wrinkles, shedding light on the aging process and providing insights into ways to maintain a youthful appearance. Understanding Facial Expression Muscles: The human face is equipped with a complex network of muscles responsible for producing facial expressions. These muscles are connected to the skin and work in harmony to create various movements, such as smiling, frowning, and raising eyebrows. While these expressions are crucial for non-verbal communication, the repetitive use of facial muscles can lead to the development of wrinkles. The Role of Collagen and Elastin: Collagen and elastin are two essential proteins
Read more

Having foot drop? Tried acupuncture?

-
 Acupuncture helps improving foot drop Foot drop, sometimes called drop foot is a muscular weakness or paralysis that makes it difficult to lift the front part of your foot and toes. This causes the toes to drag along the ground while walking. To avoid dragging the toes, people with foot drop may lift their knee higher than normal. Or they may swing their leg in a wide arc. Foot drop can happen to one foot or both feet at the same time. Foot drop is a symptom rather than a condition. The causes could be muscle disorders, nerve damage in the leg, or brain and/or spinal injury. Muscles disorders including muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and polio cause the muscles to progressively weaken causing foot drop. Some conditions including sports injuries, diabetes, spending long hours sitting cross-legged or squatting, hip or knee replacement surgery, childbirth etc could cause peroneal nerve damage or compressed causing foot drop. Brain or spinal disorders including stroke, m
Read more